What authors should do about the TikTok ban

What authors should do about the TikTok ban?

It looks like the TikTok ban is going to happen… what should author’s do to keep selling books?

Authors, take a deep breath. At least, that’s what I’ve been trying to tell myself with very little success. According to the announcement that the appeals court of assholes denied hearing anything on the TikTok ban, it looks like the app IS going to be banned on January 19th, 2025. (12/18/24 UPDATE: The Supreme court has said they’d hear oral arguements but as of now, have not put a stay on the TikTok ban while that happen as of 9pm, EST. This means that whether they stop the ban or not, or, do not rule before the Jan. 19th date, TikTok WILL be banned since this is already settled LAW.) The TikTok ban may sound apocalyptic, especially for authors marketing their books on Booktok, but your bookish empire can survive—and thrive. Here’s how to navigate this twist in the plot:

Download your TikTok content before the tikTok Ban (Stat!)

Firstly, TikTok has been your visual portfolio of chaos for years, likely, if you’re anything like me. Don’t let all that content go to waste. There’s two options you have for this. Initially, you can download each video one by one. A pain in the ass, but, it’s a way. There are apps to remove the watermark. Next, you can download your data and save it somewhere secure. Repurpose these gems on other platforms. Below are the step by step pictured instructions on how to download your data. Once you get the file, it’ll look a bit odd. Each post will have a link which you’ll need to insert into a browser and download from there. It automatically downloads without the watermark.

Build a author newsletter—NOW!

Platforms come and go, but emails endure. Invite your followers to subscribe to a newsletter with enticing perks—exclusive updates, free short stories, or behind-the-scenes book content. Make sure to plug this in your TikTok bio today. Also, if you’re reading this, sign up for my newsletter. Especially now, since I’ll be focusing on so much social media promotion for authors, and more goodies for my lovely readers.

TikTok Ban Author

Ask TikTok/booktok to follow you everywhere

Before the app (likely) vanishes, encourage your followers to connect on Instagram, YouTube, or wherever you plan to shift gears. Be direct: “TikTok may go, but I’m not! Follow me on [insert platform].” My biggest platform is Instagram and YouTube. I’ll also be devoting more time to this platform, my website. Because I own it, nobody can take it from me. The poor thing has been neglected for so long, it deserves my attention again now that I need to navigate a world of book promotion without TikTok.

TikTok ban authors

Pick a new base community for author marketing in 2025

Speaking of other socail media platforms for authors, where will you take your content? Instagram Reels? YouTube Shorts? Or the rising Bookstagram alternatives like Threads? Research your audience demographics and go where your readers already are. Pro tip: diversify to avoid putting all your eggs in one basket again. These bans can happen to anyone, even our Reptilian overloard META.

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start (or supercharge) your author website FOR readers

Think of your website as your literary HQ. We have social media for authors, but your website is your main love interest. List your books, blog regularly, and (here’s the kicker) sell directly from your site! That means fewer middlemen, more profits, and a space no app can take away from you. I will be transitioning to that myself, and truuuuust me, I know how much of a pain in the ass it is, but us authors have to take matters into our own hands when it comes to TikTok alternatives for authors.

Tiktok ban for authors

Don't Lose hope due to the tikTok ban...

Finally, TikTok/Booktok may have revolutionized book promotion for us authors, but our career isn’t tied to an app. Authors are storytellers; we adapt, innovate, and keep connecting with readers in meaningful ways. Your words matter, no matter the platform. I know it’s scary. TikTok is my biggest platform BY FAR. However, I feel lost and scared and worried for my career. But I have faith that my path is protected, and I will find my footing, and so will you.

We’ll weather this TikTok ban storm, guys. I sometimes wonder if giving up would just be easier. If I couldn’t make it big on TikTok, I won’t make it anywhere. IDK… it’s really hard to be positive right now, and I need to take my own advice. Just know, you’re not alone. I’ll see you on the other side. Also, don’t forget to check out my books here and follow me on all the platforms. ^_^

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