First Session Best Practices
Essential tips and strategies to make your first TikTok LIVE session successful, engaging, and enjoyable
Pre-Stream Checklist
Technical Setup
- Test your internet connection (minimum 3 Mbps upload speed)
- Ensure your device is fully charged or plugged in
- Check camera angle and lighting (face the light source)
- Test audio quality and microphone
- Close unnecessary apps to optimize performance
- Have a backup device ready if possible
Content Preparation
- Plan your session topic or theme
- Prepare 3-5 talking points or discussion topics
- Have questions ready to ask your audience
- Plan interactive segments or activities
- Prepare a brief introduction for new viewers
- Set realistic expectations for your first session
Environment Setup
- Choose a quiet, well-lit location
- Minimize background distractions
- Ensure good background (or use virtual background)
- Have water nearby to stay hydrated
- Set phone to Do Not Disturb mode
- Inform household members you'll be streaming
Recommended Session Structure
Opening (First 5 minutes)
5 minutes- Welcome viewers as they join
- Introduce yourself and your channel
- Share what you'll be doing today
- Set a positive, welcoming tone
Main Content
25-30 minutes (new creators) | 1 hour+ (iQ goal)- Engage with your planned topic or theme
- Respond to comments and questions
- Share stories or insights
- Create interactive moments
New creators should start with 25-30 minute sessions to build stamina and confidence. iQ encourages all creators to work toward 1 hour and 1 minute+ sessions as they grow.
Closing (Last 5 minutes)
5 minutes- Thank everyone for joining
- Share when you'll stream next
- Encourage follows for notifications
- End on a positive, energetic note
During Your Stream
Start Strong
- Welcome viewers as they join by name
- Introduce yourself and what viewers can expect
- Set a positive, energetic tone from the start
- Thank early viewers for joining
Engage Continuously
- Read and respond to comments in real-time
- Call out viewers by their usernames
- Ask questions to encourage participation
- Acknowledge gifts and reactions
Stay Authentic
- Be yourself - authenticity builds connection
- Don't try to be perfect - viewers appreciate real moments
- Share personal stories when relevant
- Show genuine interest in your audience
Manage Your Energy
- Start with shorter sessions (15-30 minutes)
- Take breaks if you feel overwhelmed
- Stay hydrated throughout
- End on a high note before you're exhausted
Engagement Strategies
The Welcome Loop
Continuously welcome new viewers as they join. Say their username and thank them for coming. This makes people feel seen and encourages them to stay.
Question-Based Content
Ask your audience questions throughout the stream. 'What brings you here today?' or 'What's everyone up to?' creates conversation and engagement.
Share Your Story
Tell viewers why you're starting LIVE streaming, what you're passionate about, or what you hope to build. Personal stories create connection.
Acknowledge Everything
Thank viewers for hearts, comments, follows, and any gifts. Make people feel appreciated for their support, no matter how small.
Common First-Session Mistakes to Avoid
Trying to do too much
Keep your first session simple. Focus on connecting with viewers rather than complex activities or battles.
Ignoring comments
Engage with every comment you can. Even a simple 'thank you' shows you value your viewers.
Being too sales-focused
Your first session should be about building connection, not asking for gifts or follows. Build trust first.
Getting discouraged by low viewership
First sessions often have low numbers. Focus on quality engagement with whoever is there - they're your foundation.
Not having a plan
Even a loose plan helps. Know what you'll talk about so you don't sit in awkward silence.
After Your Stream
Post-Stream Actions
What to do after your first session ends
- Thank viewers who stayed until the end
- Review your session analytics (viewer count, peak viewers, watch time)
- Note what worked well and what you'd improve
- Respond to any comments left after the stream
- Post a short video thanking viewers and promoting your next session
- Rest and recharge - streaming is energy-intensive
Pro Tips for First Sessions
- Start with 25-30 minutes: New creators should begin with shorter, quality sessions (25-30 minutes) to build stamina and confidence. iQ encourages all creators to work toward 1 hour and 1 minute+ sessions as they grow.
- Have a backup plan: If technical issues arise, have a plan B. Maybe switch to a different topic or end gracefully.
- Don't compare yourself: Every creator starts somewhere. Focus on your own growth, not comparing to established creators.
- Celebrate small wins: Even one viewer who stays and engages is a win. Build from there.
- Be patient: Building an audience takes time. Consistency over weeks and months matters more than one perfect session.
Ready for Your First Session?
Join iQ to get personalized coaching, battle strategy guidance, and ongoing support as you build your LIVE presence. Learn from experienced creators and avoid common pitfalls.