You don't need a TikTok Shop agency...

I get asked this all the time: “Do I really need to work with an agency to succeed on TikTok Shop?”

The honest answer?

Not always. At Social Tale, we turn away brands every week because they aren’t ready for an agency.

If you’re not clear on your product offering, goals, or TikTok Shop basics, you might need to start smaller.

That said, if you’re serious about scaling and ready to invest in doing things the right way, an agency can be the difference between spinning your wheels and building real momentum.

But this comes with a big caveat: not all TikTok Shop agencies are created equal.

Here’s what you need to know before making the decision.

Understanding TikTok Shop: The Bare Minimum

Every brand needs to, at the very least, understand how TikTok Shop works.

From navigating the Seller Center to leveraging tools like TikTok LIVE and creator campaigns, the platform requires a level of expertise and commitment.

This isn’t a platform where you can dabble.

To succeed, you’ll need focused effort across multiple areas:

• Campaign strategy

• Content creation

• Affiliate outreach

• Media Buying

The question is: do you try to tackle this internally, work with a freelancer, or hire an agency?

The Case for Working with an Agency

When you’re ready to scale, working with an agency can give you an unparalleled advantage.

A good agency will help you bypass the steep learning curve, implement proven strategies, and unlock faster results.

But here’s the problem: all agencies are not equal.

Many TikTok Shop agencies have popped up recently

Riding the wave of the platform’s growth.

Unfortunately, some of these agencies are still learning TikTok Shop on your dime.

If you work with one of these “newcomers,” you’ll likely spend 3-6 months watching them figure it out

Time your competitors are using to scale with more experienced partners.

A great agency brings proven results, systems, and expertise.

They don’t just execute; they optimize and scale.

The right agency becomes a true partner in your growth, not just a vendor.

Freelancers: A Good Starting Point?

For brands just getting started, freelancers can be a viable option.

They often provide an incremental boost in the short term, helping you establish a presence and gain initial traction.

But there’s a limit.

Unless you’re paying top dollar, most freelancers will take on multiple brands to make ends meet.

As their workload grows, the time and attention they can give your brand diminishes.

Even if they perform well, you’ll often find them hiring their own support team.

Guess what?

You’ve essentially transitioned into working with an agency—without the structure or strategy that comes with a professional team.

Hiring Internally: The Challenges

Some brands choose to hire internally, and this approach can work, especially if you have the resources to bring in a skilled TikTok Shop pro.

But the talent pool is limited, and finding someone with deep TikTok Shop expertise is no small task.

Right now, TikTok Shop is evolving so quickly that even experienced hires may struggle to stay ahead of the curve without external support.

Internal teams are valuable, but they often need guidance from seasoned experts to reach their full potential.

So, What’s the Best Approach?

The best path forward depends on your brand’s stage and resources:

• If you’re just starting, a freelancer can help you take those first steps.

• If you have momentum and want to scale quickly, an experienced agency is your best bet.

• If you’re ready to build long-term infrastructure, an internal hire supported by an agency can offer the best of both worlds.

Final Thoughts

The TikTok Shop landscape is competitive, and the decisions you make today will determine where you stand six months from now.

The wrong partnership can cost you time and opportunities, while the right one can fast-track your growth.

If you’re ready to scale with a proven agency, let’s talk.

If you’re not there yet, keep learning, stay consistent, and focus on building a solid foundation.

Your success on TikTok Shop isn’t just about the platform

It’s about choosing the right people to help you navigate it.

Ashley Wright
Founder and CEO of Social Tale