Herdiansyah Herdiansyah; Istiono Istiono
The development of digital technology has encouraged Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to utilize social media as the main instrument in building brand awareness. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach with a field research type (field research). Data collection was carried out through observation, in-depth interviews with six sources (owner, financial manager, social media team, admin, crew, and customers), and documentation of the content of the TikTok account @mtm43surabaya. The results of the study show that: (1) MTMSBY43 implements a digital branding strategy with three main components, namely brand positioning as a social-based one-stop solution, a brand identity that focuses on a human-centered service approach, and a brand personality that reflects the character of local youth who are solution-oriented and socially concerned; (2) MTMSBY43 TikTok content is classified into three pillars, namely humanistic and realistic content (daily vlogs & live documentation), educational and transparent content (service portfolio), and humorous content (entertainment & engagement content) that builds high organic appeal; (3) TikTok acts as a primary growth driver for MTMSBY43's brand awareness through three mechanisms: creating brand recognition through the FYP algorithm, which reaches new audiences; driving brand recall through consistent uploads and a distinctive communication style; and building customer trust and brand loyalty through responsive two-way interactions