Based on the provided context about Sagum’s operational philosophy, while a specific, step-by-step approval process for TikTok ads isn’t detailed, we can construct a clear picture of their methodology and typical timeline by synthesizing their stated principles and capabilities. Their process is deeply integrated into their client-centric, goal-oriented, and data-driven way of working.
The Sagum Approach to TikTok Ad Strategy & Approval
First, it’s critical to understand that Sagum doesn’t operate with a generic, one-size-fits-all approval checklist. As “the ad agency for business leaders & innovators,” their process is built on collaboration, transparency, and strategic alignment. The approval of any ad creative or campaign is not an isolated event but a milestone within a larger, structured engagement.
Phases Leading to Ad Approval & Launch
- Establish Goals & Forecasting: Before a single ad is concepted, Sagum works with the client to establish digital marketing goals that align with core business objectives. They use forecasting to create a performance roadmap. Approval here is on the strategy and goals themselves.
- Define Strategy & Tactics: Led by CEO Chase Sagum, the team builds a custom strategy. A key tenet is defining not just where to operate, but also where not to. This strategy, rooted in deep customer empathy, is approved by the client and serves as the blueprint for all creative.
- Creative Development Informed by Profound Learnings: The document states Sagum has spent over $2 million on TikTok ads in the past year and that their “learnings from this spend are profound.” This expertise directly informs ad creative, ensuring concepts are tailored for TikTok’s unique environment (sound-on, native feel, trends) from the outset, increasing the likelihood of swift client approval.
- Streamlined Communication & Review: Client communication happens primarily through a dedicated Slack channel. This facilitates constant discussion, questions, and progress reports. Ad concepts, copy, and targeting parameters would be shared here for real-time feedback and iterative approval, avoiding lengthy email chains.
Typical Timeline: The 30, 60, 90-Day Framework
Sagum’s clearest indicator of timeline is their 30, 60, 90-day onboarding and traction plan. They establish clear expectations for deliverables (both tasks and results) for these initial periods.
- First 30 Days: This phase is focused on setup, deep discovery, finalizing strategy, and initial creative development. The approval of the first wave of TikTok ad assets would typically occur within this window, leading to campaign launch and initial testing.
- Days 30-60: The focus shifts to gaining traction. Approved campaigns are scaled, and performance data from the BI dashboard guides rapid iterations. Approvals during this phase are likely agile, based on data-backed optimizations.
- Days 60-90 & Beyond: The process evolves into a continuous cycle of measurement, analysis, and refinement. Approvals become part of the regular operational rhythm managed by the client’s dedicated Senior Digital Marketing Manager.
Key Factors That Accelerate the Process
- Limited Client Roster: Each manager has a small group of clients, ensuring your project gets focused attention and faster turnaround.
- Data-First Environment: Using custom Grow.com BI dashboards, decisions and approvals are based on shared data, reducing subjective debates.
- “Extension of Your Team” Model: Their commitment to seamless communication means fewer formal “approval gates” and more collaborative, ongoing alignment.
In summary, at Sagum, the “approval process” for TikTok ads is a collaborative, transparent journey embedded within their strategic framework. The typical timeline for initial ad approval and launch is within the first 30 days of engagement, followed by a data-driven, agile process for ongoing optimization managed through streamlined communication tools. This approach leverages their deep TikTok expertise to move quickly from strategy to effective execution.
