TikTok isn’t just for viral dances and funny videos anymore. It’s now one of the most powerful platforms for getting in front of potential customers. And the best part? You don’t need a massive budget to get results. In this guide, I’ll break down how to make money with TikTok ads, even if you’re starting with just $20 a day. Whether you’re promoting a product, service, or affiliate offer, TikTok ads can help you generate real sales if you know how to set them up correctly.
Why TikTok Ads Work
TikTok ads show up right where attention is, on the “For You Page”. This means your ad is seen alongside content people are already engaging with. The algorithm doesn’t care if you’re a big brand or a solo creator. If your ad is engaging, it performs.
TikTok also gives smaller advertisers a level playing field. With smart targeting and good creatives, you can get in front of the right people without spending thousands.
Step 1: Set Up Your TikTok Ads Manager Account
Go to TikTok Ads Manager and click “Create Now.”
You’ll be prompted to:
- Sign in or create an account
- Link your TikTok business account (or personal if you’re just starting)
- Choose your business type (most beginners can choose sole proprietor)
- Fill in your business details and agree to the terms
Bonus Tip: TikTok often runs promotions like ad credit offers (e.g., get $100 in ad credit when you spend $20). These offers usually show up during sign-up, so take advantage.
Step 2: Build an Engaging Ad Creative
Your creative is the most important part of your campaign. You can target perfectly, but if your video doesn’t hook viewers in the first few seconds, your money won’t go far.
Don’t have design skills? No problem.
- Use Fiverr or Upwork to hire affordable video editors.
- Use free tools like Canva for DIY creatives.
- Use ChatGPT’s image generation tool to generate product visuals, headlines, or layout ideas.
Format to follow:
- Strong hook (first 3 seconds)
- Show the problem
- Introduce the solution (your product or offer)
- Call to action (“Click the link” or “Shop now”)
Keep your videos native to TikTok. Avoid overproduced or ad-looking content. The goal is to blend in while standing out with value.
Step 3: Create Your First Campaign
Once your ad account is set up, log into TikTok Ads Manager and create your campaign.
Choose Your Objective:
Select Product Sales if you’re promoting a physical or digital product. This tells TikTok to optimize for people likely to buy.
Switch to Full Options:
TikTok hides most options by default. Click Switch to Full Mode for better control over audience, scheduling, placements, and budget.
Step 4: Set Up Your Ad Set
Now it’s time to configure targeting and budget.
Budget:
Start small. A daily budget of $9–$20 is enough to test. TikTok’s algorithm performs well even at low spending levels.
Scheduling Tip: Run your campaign starting at 11:59 PM the day before. This unlocks a full day of performance tracking and better pacing.
Audience:
- Start with the United States or the region most relevant to your offer
- Keep targeting broadly in the beginning (age, interests, and behaviors)
- Let TikTok gather data before narrowing in
Step 5: Create Your Ad
Now upload your video creative. Add:
- Ad name for internal tracking
- Ad copy with clear benefits and urgency
- A strong call to action (e.g., “Shop now,” “Learn more”)
TikTok lets you preview how your ad looks. Make sure the hook is visible right away and the text doesn’t get cut off.
Step 6: Monitor Performance and Optimize
Once your ad goes live, give it at least 2–3 days before making changes. The algorithm needs time to learn.
Key Metrics to Watch:
- CPM (Cost per 1,000 impressions): Lower is better
- CTR (Click-through rate): Aim for 1% or higher
- CPC (Cost per click): Depends on your industry, but keep it as low as possible
- Conversion rate: How many viewers actually buy or sign up
Don’t:
- Make drastic budget changes too quickly
- Kill ads too early
- Change multiple things at once (you won’t know what worked)
Do:
- Test multiple creatives
- Launch 2–3 versions of your video with different hooks or text
- Keep your top performer and turn off the rest
Final Thoughts
TikTok ads are one of the easiest ways to generate traffic and sales, even on a small budget. You don’t need a massive team or advanced skills. Just a good offer, a scroll-stopping video, and a little patience.
Recap:
- Set up your TikTok Ad Manager and claim your ad credit if available
- Use Canva, Fiverr, or ChatGPT to create high-converting video ads
- Start with a $9–$20 daily budget using the Product Sales objective
- Let your ads run, track results, and test new creatives weekly
The sooner you start, the faster you learn and the faster you start making money.