Let’s say that you released an excellent mobile app for iOS and Android and believe that it can be used by many.
The problem is that both Apple Store and Google Play Store are filled with various applications in all the available categories.
Expecting to just get lucky is hardly a winning strategy. No, you need to create a strategy to help your app go viral.
Some Key Steps to Take Before the Promotion Campaign
Before you begin, there are a few important things to make sure of. For one, the app should be optimized for different devices.
That includes performance and storage consumption. According to the Backlight blog, it can be a bit tricky to manage a smartphone’s storage, and apps that consume more space than they realistically should are the opposite of user-friendly.
Another thing is to optimize the app for a store search. People who are interested in downloading and installing the app should be able to find it without problems.
Finally, get a monetization model in place that clearly states whether the app is free, freemium, or paid. The pricing model should be clear and not mislead the consumers.
Run Ad Campaigns on Social Media
Let’s start with social media. It is often the go-to platform for marketing. Mobile device users browse social media often, so it makes sense to strike where your potential users are.
You can launch a paid ad campaign and set specific demographics that you want to target in relation to what your app offers.
Post on Forums
Traditional forums are not as prominent as they were back in the day, but you can still find plenty of them.
Creating a thread or replying to a forum user in a way that you can mention your app naturally is a good approach. For instance, if someone creates a thread asking how to save more money and you have an app that helps you manage finances, it makes sense to advertise the app as a potential solution, right?
A similar approach can be made not just on traditional forums. You can find relevant threads on Reddit and Quora, as well as various posts on social media groups.
Collaborate With Influencers
Get in touch with influencers and offer them something in exchange for promoting your application.
The influencers should have demographics that are relevant to your application. For instance, if the app is all about promoting a healthy lifestyle, then Instagram influencers who have a brand built around a healthy lifestyle are a good fit.
You do not have to limit yourself just to social media. Twitch TV is excellent for those who want to promote a gaming app.
Even though most Twitch streamers play on computers and consoles rather than mobile devices, there are some who do. Not to mention that some streamers would be fine switching to a mobile game for a bit if the offer is good enough to persuade them.
Reach Out to Podcasts
Podcasts are worth a shout as well. If you listen to one, you are likely to hear how a service or a product is the sponsor of the episode.
It is common for podcast hosts to monetize their content through various advertising deals or by collaborating with top podcast ad agencies. A short break in the middle of a podcast or an introduction is when you hear the promotional part.
Ideally, you should come on as a guest and talk about it from a developer’s point of view and why people should consider using your app. However, if such an opportunity does not present itself, a simple promotional bit on a podcast is still a good marketing method.
Pitch to Tech Writers
Many tech writers are looking for new things to cover on their websites. Some are eager to get exclusives because the tech industry is competitive.
You could reach out to various bloggers and let them know about your application. Give them early access and inform them that they are part of an exclusive group that gets to try the app before everyone else.
Advertise in Apps
In-app advertisements are quite common, especially when an app is free but has a paid version. It encourages users to eliminate the apps by getting the paid version.
One of the downsides of this method is that you might find it difficult to strike a deal with other app developers to let you promote your app on theirs. Nevertheless, the idea is worth a try.
Closing Thoughts
Launching a new app is a stressful feat, especially if you put a lot of effort into it and received positive feedback from your circle.
The next step is about getting the word out there and letting people know about your application. The methods mentioned in the article should be enough to create a solid marketing campaign but do not be afraid to explore them even further.
James is the head of marketing at Tamoco
