A TikTok nudge is a prompt the app gives to encourage certain actions, like engaging with content, posting, or exploring features. Learn how nudges work and what they mean for your account in this guide.

On TikTok, a ‘nudge’ is a subtle prompt or notification designed to encourage specific actions, such as engaging with a video, posting content, or exploring new features.

TikTok uses nudges to keep users active, help them discover new content, or even nudge them toward creating their own content.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what nudges are, the different types you might see, and how understanding them can help you get more out of your time on TikTok.

So, what does nudge mean on TikTok?

The nudge feature on TikTok lets users prompt creators they follow to go live. It’s designed to strengthen follower interactions and help fans connect more directly with their favorite content creators.

The feature is somewhat similar to Facebook’s old “poke” feature, which sent a subtle notification to someone to grab their attention.

On TikTok, when you nudge a creator, they receive a notification letting them know you want them to go live.

The creator can then choose to start a live session or ignore the request. If they go live, you’ll receive a notification that they’re broadcasting.

But nudges aren’t limited to creators. You can also nudge friends on TikTok to let them know you want to chat, making it a simple way to spark interactions.

How to use the nudge feature on TikTok

Nudging a creator on TikTok:

Nudging your favorite TikTok creator is quite easy. Here are a few simple steps to guide you through:

  • Log in to TikTok
  • Visit your favorite content creator's TikTok profile.
  • Click on the bell icon at the top right corner.
  • If you are not following the creator, you will be prompted to first follow the account before you can proceed. Tap follow.
  • Once you follow the creator, you will be directed to the Live notification settings page. Click on the radio button right beside the nudge to send a notification to the content creator. This will let them know that their followers are online and are requesting them to go live.

While the nudge button is a great way of showing love and support to your best TikTok creators, remember to use it sparingly to avoid spamming their pages.

Nudging a friend on TikTok:

You can also nudge your friends to draw their attention and let them know that you want to chat.

Here's how to nudge a friend on TikTok:

  • Log in to TikTok and navigate to your friend's profile.
  • Click on the footprints icon at the top-right corner of the page to view your profile list.
  • Click on the nudge button next to the profile viewers you follow. Remember, the nudge button will not appear unless you are following the person.

Another way you can nudge a friend is from within direct messages. Here is how to do it:

  • Log in to TikTok and navigate to your inbox
  • Create a new message or open an old one
  • You will see the nudge feature above the message box. Click on it.

How to disable nudge on TikTok

If you don't wish to be nudged, you can remove the feature from your TikTok.

Here's how:

  • Log in to TikTok and navigate to the creator's tool
  • Click on nudge
  • Disable the toggle right next to the "allow viewers to nudge you" icon

Why should you use the TikTok nudge feature?

As a user, you can let creators know you want them to go live or engage more often.

For creators, nudges offer a simple way to connect with followers, increase engagement, and strengthen their community.

But like any feature, TikTok’s nudge comes with both advantages and drawbacks.

The table below breaks down the pros and cons so you can decide how best to use it:

Pros Cons
Significantly increases engagement - Lets creators know when followers want new content, serving as a gentle reminder to stay active. Notification overload & potential for spam - Misuse by sending too many nudges can overwhelm creators, leading them to ignore or disable the feature.
Keeps the audience updated - Users get notified when their favorite creators go live or post new content, improving follower-creator connection. Uneven availability - Not all users have access yet, since TikTok is still testing the feature, which can cause confusion.
Gentle way for creators and viewers to connect - Subtle prompts encourage interaction without being disruptive or pushy.
Creates a sense of community - Regular interaction fosters loyal followers and stronger fan bases.
Positive reinforcement for content creators - Nudges boost likes, views, comments, and engagement, increasing chances of exposure on "For You" pages.

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FAQs about Tiktok's nudge

What does nudge mean on Tiktok?
Nudge is a feature that allows users to encourage their best content creators to go online and start a live stream. The feature is also available on TikTok direct messages and is used to attract a recipient's attention and let them know that you want to chat.

How do you nudge someone on TikTok?
Log in to TikTok and visit the creator's profile. Tap the bell icon at the top right then click on Nudge. For direct messages, you only need to open the thread and click on the nudge icon.

How can I remove nudge on TikTok?
Log in to TikTok, navigate to Creators Tool then disable the "Allow Viewers to Nudge You" option.

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