3 Ways Creators Are Future-Proofing Amid TikTok’s Uncertain Fate

The ongoing threat of a TikTok ban just got more serious.

Today (Dec. 5), a U.S. federal appeals court upheld a law that requires TikTok’s owner, Chinese tech firm ByteDance, to divest itself of the app in the United States by early next year, or face a ban.

Unless the Supreme Court intervenes, the decision leaves TikTok’s fate to President Joe Biden, who must decide whether to grant a 90-day extension of the Jan. 19 deadline before passing it to President-elect Donald Trump on Jan. 20.

It’s not yet clear how the ban will play out for users, creators or brands. But given the uncertainty, creators who rely heavily on TikTok are starting to diversify their content and connect with their communities across new platforms.

Diversifying content

Creators foster a genuine community through entertainment or education. But to remain resilient to platform changes, it’s essential that content doesn’t solely depend on one platform for distribution. Platforms can come and go, like Vine, or change significantly, as seen with X (formerly Twitter).

@scrubhacks Go follow your favorite creators / businesses on other platforms to support them! #tiktokban #nursetok ♬ original sound – Scrubhacks | Lindsey Shelton

Creators must ensure they’re providing value across numerous platforms. For example, a TikTok creator known for sharing business strategies might start forming a community on LinkedIn, or start a Substack to extend their following to other places.

“You should be wanting to get yourself recognized on as many platforms as possible,” said creator Abby Fridman, highlighting the importance of scaling an audience, which can lead to brand partnerships or sales.

Look out for what’s next

As one popular video platform fades away, another emerges. From Vine to TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, there are many relevant platforms to reach people with video. Creators should be early adopters, bringing their community and audience to these new spaces with them.

TikTokers might want to repurpose their most viral content for other short-form video platforms. Creators such as Eric Sedeño and Golloria share their content not only on TikTok, but Instagram pages and other video platforms, for instance.

“And if they do go viral again, then your audience is gonna have an easier time finding you,” says creator Coco Mocoe in a video about repurposing TikTok videos to new platforms.

Build community through broadcast

People most love TikTok for its sense of community. No matter your interests—whether you’re into musical theatre, gaming, sports, or teaching—there’s a TikTok niche. By discovering creators who share their passions, users on the platform feel understood and connected.

Creators can bring this engagement to new places using broadcast features on platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, and Discord. Through these channels, creators are actively engaging their followers on everything from advice on new video themes to exploring ideas for product launches.

“Audiences are looking for real connections with their favorite creators,” said creator Jow Howley. “Broadcast channels give you a chance to connect with your core followers on a more personal level,” she added, highlighting features like voice notes, and pictures.

While TikTok is currently stable and its creators are succeeding, creators need to start preparing now for potential future changes and set them up for a success long-term.