Apps

Lately, I have been meeting more and more app developers, entrepreneurs who have the exact same question for me; how do I promote my app without spending a penny? At the same time I’ve met and worked with app entrepreneurs who made money selling their app, mainly by promoting it for free. Some have made use of their network, some used publicity and some mad a buzz on Social media.

In my experience I have found many more ways to promote your app for free, below are 14 most effective ways to generate growth for your app for free.

1. Build a teaser Website

I usually do this 4-6 weeks before launch of the app to collect email addresses of all those who would like to know when the app launches.

2. Build a microsite

This could be a one page parallax site showcasing your app to your web audience.

3. Start a blog

Integrate your blog to your microsite, write interesting, relevant content that will attract your audience to your website.

4. Share Content

Use your Facebook, twitter, instagram profiles to promote your app several time a week. Do not over do it!

5.Get Press, s..t loads of it!

Entrepreneur Neil Patel says: “Press is the best way to kick start your startup, and the best way to get it is to manually reach out to journalists.” I totally agree.

6. App store Optimization

Make good use of it, test and more tests. A simple image change could lead to thousands of new downloads.

7. Bloggers who would care

Identify niche bloggers that relate to your app. For instance a recommendations app could be pitched to travel bloggers.

8. Resolve negative Reviews

what would you rather download an app with 1 star or an app with 5 stars. Never Forget – a happy customer is a brand ambassador for your app.

9. Integrate Social Media within the app

Allow users to share content on other social media networks or make sure you let your users to bring in a friend or two to your app.

10. Pitch your app to app reviewers

Sites likes MacRumours, AndroidPit, AppAdvice can generate lot of buzz around your app. Research review sites based on relevancy and traffic.

11. Promote on Community Sites

Hacker News, Reddit, Digg use them. Submit your app link and get upvotes, get your friends and users involved.

12. Promotional Price

If your app is a paid one, consider a promotional price during launch. The price point encourages impulse purchases.

13. Post on Pinterest

Use blog images, infographics and visual content from your app to create content on your Pinterest board.

14. Create a product Video

Make it creative, funny, emotional. Make sure you tell your story only in the way people can identify with it. Here’s a great one as example from the Dollar Shave Club.

Do you want to grow your business?  Get in Touch!