Why traditional advertising methods can’t keep up with TikTok’s unique culture

There’s absolutely no doubt about it – TikTok has completely flipped the script on how we connect online. This behemoth isn’t just another app to scroll through; it's a living, breathing ecosystem where trends explode overnight and yesterday's viral sensation is today's old news.

But while everyday users are having a blast, brands are breaking a sweat trying to keep up. Why? Because TikTok's insatiable appetite for fresh content never stops growing.

At Cannes Lions, TikTok's lead researcher and data scientist, Esteban Ribero, revealed a fascinating paradox: the platform's unmatched ability to captivate audiences is precisely what creates its biggest challenge for brands.

Ribero explained that “TikTok’s immersive environment demands a variety of assets to keep consumers engaged.” This means brands must work harder than ever to earn – and keep – that precious attention.

The old playbook of dropping one slick commercial and calling it a day? That's ancient history. To stay relevant, brands need a continuous stream of content that keeps up with the rapid pace of TikTok’s scrolling culture.

Why TikTok needs variety (and lots of it!)

Unlike other platforms, TikTok isn’t built around static, predictable feeds. Each swipe plunges users into a new world, perfectly tailored to that specific moment. This deep immersion makes TikTok a goldmine for brands, but only if they can match its relentless rhythm.

As the platform dethrones Facebook and Instagram, particularly among Gen Z, one truth becomes clear: success demands an endless stream of fresh content that speaks TikTok's distinct language.

This is why brands can no longer stake everything on a single, polished video, a big-budget ad campaign, or a few key visuals. Winning on TikTok requires content that flows like a natural conversation – authentic, timely, and always evolving.

But simply churning out content isn't enough. Brands need to master a diverse mix that keeps viewers coming back for more.

Authentically connecting with the audience

TikTok users crave a sense of connection with the brands they follow – they’re not looking for perfection; they want to feel seen and understood.

This explains why perfectly polished content often falls flat on TikTok. In fact, a leaked TikTok document revealed that the platform’s algorithm is specifically designed to push engaging, ‘addictive’ content, which explains why relatable, behind-the-scenes videos resonate so deeply with viewers.

For brands to truly make an impact, authenticity needs to flow through everything they post. And  no single content type can carry the load alone. Instead, brands must weave together different elements, from casual UGC clips to polished product features.

Think of it as each piece of content adding a different note to the overarching brand symphony in order to keep audiences deeply engaged.

Answering TikTok’s demand

Creating this volume and variety of content isn't simple. The traditional approach of spending months perfecting a single studio campaign belongs to a different era.

TikTok's recommendation system marches to its own beat, prioritising content that resonates with each user's unique interests. For brands, this means a single polished ad simply won't suffice – they need a steady stream of varied, engaging content to stay visible in users' feeds.

That’s why more brands are expanding their marketing strategies to include Creator Production – tapping into vetted networks of creators who produce a steady stream of content, specifically tailored for TikTok.

Imagine creating dozens of unique, authentic videos in the time it would take to get just one studio ad out the door. Not only is this approach faster, but it also feels more real and adaptable. The content isn’t being created in a closed studio; it’s coming from creators who are immersed in the same trends, styles, and conversations that define TikTok every day.

Scaling while maintaining brand integrity

Embracing Creator Production isn't about sacrificing quality for speed – it's about crafting brand-aligned content that feels native to TikTok.

Working with vetted creator platforms (like Creatively Squared) offers the best of both worlds: quantity and quality. These aren't influencers pushing their own personal brands; they're skilled content creators who know how to blend brand codes and narratives with TikTok's unique vibe.

Think of them as a team of cultural translators who can take a brand's voice and make it resonate with the TikTok audience. Ribero’s approach is to “raise the floor, not the ceiling. Start with brilliant basics, then use a test-and-learn approach to find your peak.” This adaptability allows creators to experiment, adapt, and pivot based on what's working, all while keeping the brand's core message intact.

This approach allows brands to connect authentically with TikTok audiences and become part of the conversation, rather than just broadcasting from the sidelines.

Building authentic connections with Creator Production

TikTok's triple demand – variety, volume, and authenticity – is reshaping brand success on the platform. The winners are those who are no longer solely relying on slow, polished campaigns and are, instead, adopting more agile, adaptive approaches.

Creator Production sits at the heart of this shift, enabling brands to keep their voice and values consistent while scaling content to match TikTok’s rapid pace.

Working with platforms like Creatively Squared means brands aren’t just producing random TikTok-style videos; they’re creating purposeful, on-brand content that fits the platform naturally.

This approach also allows for real-time adjustments. Brands can test, learn, and adapt to stay in tune with audience preferences – releasing fresh, relevant content as trends unfold.

On TikTok, real connection drives engagement. By making Creator Production central to their TikTok strategy, brands can move beyond merely showing up in the feed and become part of the conversation.