5 things to do while TikTok hangs in limbo

Another TikTok deadline is looming, and here we are again - stuck in the same 'will they or won’t they?!' moment. That means you’re still at risk of the same chaos we just went through. So how do you protect yourself moving forward? Here’s a few practical things you can do while you’re hanging in limbo…

1. Save your followers (and your media!) outside of TikTok

We should call this step zero–but it’s easy to overlook when you’re in the throes of building your brand on social platforms. Make sure all your media is backed up somewhere safe, so your life's work isn’t at the mercy of sudden platform changes.

Some options: Download your TikTok data directly in the app–and make it a habit if you haven’t already. You can also save your work manually or use a third-party tool to grab everything from your profile. And don’t forget to back up your files somewhere you own, so they’re always there when you need them.

A little prep now means you won’t be scrambling when the next big platform shift happens. You built your business, make sure you have access to it!

2. Create a direct line to your fans (and their inboxes)

Now that your media’s safe (phew), let’s talk about your followers. Having a direct line to your fans is key to keeping your community strong and engaged. Whether it’s through an email list or a media and community platform like Patreon, you only really control your creative business when you can reach your audience directly.

And here’s the kicker: It’s profitable. The potential direct-to-fan side of the creator economy is expected to hit $231 billion by 2027. So now’s the time to get in and grow with it.

3. Make sure you don’t have all your eggs in one basket

The best way to avoid the panic we all felt when TikTok shut down overnight? Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Our State of Create report found that more than 70% of creators on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube say their monthly incomes are unpredictable–so, now’s the time to start thinking about diversifying across platforms that aren’t reliant on ads.

4. Think about community building with both free and exclusive media

Free is amazing for discovery and grabbing attention, and exclusive builds community and keeps your fans invested. Plus, it helps that 80% of core fans say they’re likely to pay for that exclusive work.

Start offering more personalized, exclusive media for your most passionate followers. This could mean sharing BTS media, long-form, or giving early access to projects. Explore new platforms and tease that media across Instagram and TikTok. Link out in your bio. These small pieces help your fans feel like they’re a part of your creative journey, not just passive consumers.

Platforms like Patreon allow you to offer both free and paid media in one place while helping you get discovered by new fans. That’s a win-win.

5. Your community isn’t just your fans–it’s also your fellow creators

Collaboration is a powerful way to build your community. Reach out to creators in your niche, whether it’s cross-promoting, sharing ideas, or teaming up on projects. It doesn’t need to be big; even small collaborations can expose you to new fans and deepen connections with your audience.

So, connect with creators you admire, and grow together. You’ll expand your reach and build a stronger, more supportive community.

The creator economy is shifting, but that doesn’t mean we need to be caught off guard. Now’s the time to take control, build direct relationships with your core fans, and diversify your platforms to set yourself up for long-term success. No matter what happens with TikTok, you’ve got options.