As someone who creates content for TikTok, which is my second largest online platform boasting over 29,000 followers, the impending ban of TikTok is a significant concern, especially given its role in enhancing my collaborations with brands.

The potential prohibition of TikTok is set to be effective on January 19th, just a few days away. The U.S. Supreme Court, on December 18th, consented to consider TikTok’s appeal and heard the platform’s arguments on January 10th. During this hearing, TikTok contended that the ban would violate the free speech rights of its 170 million American users, as reported by NBC News. Signals from the Supreme Court suggest that it is likely to support the ban.

For those facing the TikTok ban, here are five strategies content creators can adopt:

1. Expand Your Presence on Alternative Social Media Networks

With TikTok’s future uncertain, it’s wise for creators to start building their presence on other social media sites that also offer short-form video content. Creators can consider establishing or growing their presence on platforms including:

  • YouTube or YouTube Shorts

  • Instagram

  • Pinterest

  • LinkedIn

  • Snapchat

  • Facebook

2. Focus on Building Your Own Media Channels

Many influencers remember the decline of platforms like Vine, FourSquare, and Tumblr. It’s crucial for creators to invest in channels they can control, such as email lists, newsletters, blogs, websites, and podcasts. This strategy helps reduce dependency on the unpredictable nature of social media algorithms.

3. Inform Your TikTok Audience About Where Else They Can Follow You

If you have a loyal following on TikTok, start directing them to your other platforms.

For instance, I recently spoke with Gabby of @packslight who mentioned that despite her large following on TikTok, she is focusing on migrating her audience to her email newsletter and diversifying her presence online. She is also launching her application, SeekPTO, in January 2025.

4. Archive Your TikTok Videos and Reuse Them Elsewhere

TikTok has updated its software to allow users to download videos sans watermark. Creators should take advantage of this to save their content and repurpose it on other platforms. I talked with Tori from @HerFirst100K, who mentioned her team is busy downloading every video from TikTok to preserve their digital footprint, including metrics and past campaign data, which they plan to use in future brand pitches. They are also making an effort to engage with their current audience by resharing valuable content and posting all remaining drafts on TikTok.

5. Keep Posting on TikTok While You Can

Until the ban takes effect on January 19th, TikTok remains operational in the U.S. Creators should continue to utilize TikTok as a primary or secondary platform to maximize their reach and engagement. Influencers across various fields, including small business owners, athletes, and chefs, can still leverage their established presence on the platform to benefit their brand.