10 great ways to market your mobile app
According to research firm Statistica, there are over six billion smartphone users in the world today - and that number is expected to continue to increase substantially in the coming years. This is great news for mobile app creators.
However, there’s still a catch. You could build the world’s greatest app, eagerly launch it out into an enormous market of mobile app users... and realize that no one is using it because no one actually knows that it exists (ouch).
In order to grow a large user base, you need a way to get the word out. In short: you need a marketing plan. Developing a sound marketing strategy can be a bit intimidating if you have little or no prior experience with marketing mobile apps. Fortunately, a plethora of battle-tested and successful app marketers have blazed the trail and left a map to follow.
Here are several tools and tactics to consider including in your mobile app marketing arsenal.
1. Start with a strategy
Start marketing early, well before you actually launch your app, and begin by developing a strategy to guide your efforts. Create ideal user personas so you’re clear on who it is that you’re marketing to. Once you begin to build your user base, don’t forget to market to them for retention (and upsells if applicable) too.
2. Build a strong web presence
Take time to design a great website landing or sales page for your app, and make sure it’s obvious what your app does and what your unique value proposition is. Consider including an explainer video or at least some high-quality screenshots. Do SEO (search engine optimization) for your site to make it as easy as possible to find.
If you have the resources, also consider adding a blog to your website, or even guest blogging on some other sites. A blog can substantially improve your SEO results, as well as your credibility. Guest blogging will also get you in front of a broader audience.
3. Get active on social media
Create an account on every major social media platform and post about your app regularly. There are several great posting automation tools out there that can help save you time. If you create a video, include it in your social posts and upload it to YouTube. Also, consider pitching podcasters for interviews, it can lead to great exposure with your target audience.
4. Utilize the app store
There are a number of marketing tactics you can employ right within the Apple App Store or Google Play. For starters, make sure to do good ASO (app store optimization), including choosing the right keywords and categories, highlighting top features and benefits, and adding high-quality visuals like screenshots.
Find out what it would take for your app to get featured in the app store. Once you start getting users, proactively ask them for in-app reviews. If applicable, consider running promo discounts on in-app purchases.
5. Conduct targeted outreach
Make a list of influencers, publications, and writers who are popular with your target audience. Reach out to them to inquire if your app could get covered in an article or some other type of piece. Contact independent app review sites and ask them to check out and review your app. Also, see if there are any app awards you’re eligible to apply for and throw your hat in the ring.
6. Get in the press
Publish some well-written press releases. If it’s within your budget, consider hiring a PR firm to perform some extra press outreach just before and after your launch. For an extra exposure boost, you could also contact local or national news media and inquire if your app can get coverage, possibly even via tv or radio channels.
7. Build an email list
Building an email list can be a very effective way to market to your existing audience. Launch a newsletter and make sure to add a signup link on your landing page. Use your email list to stay top of mind, announce exciting updates and send promo offers. Get clear on your brand voice and utilize your list to build your brand and strengthen your relationship with your users.
8. Use paid advertising
There are numerous channels at your disposal for paid advertising. Create an ad budget and prioritize advertising in the places you’re most likely to reach your target audience. Consider running ads via popular platforms like Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn - as well as app store ads. Hiring a first-rate copywriter and designer for your ads will help maximize your results.
9. Enlist users and partners
Consider utilizing your existing users in your marketing strategy, and also forging some strategic partnerships with other companies. Methods to consider include starting a referral program, a loyalty program, or an affiliate program. Such programs have great potential to get the word out when run effectively and backed by a sound strategy.
10. Establish a physical presence
When you’re marketing an app, it’s easy to get a bit of tunnel vision and focus exclusively on digital channels. But just because you have a digital product doesn’t mean that you’re limited to only digital marketing. Establishing a tangible non-digital presence can be quite effective as well. Consider throwing a launch party, or giving out branded swag like t-shirts and mugs.
Build an app worth marketing
There are no great marketing results without a great product. Looking to build a high-quality mobile app that provides your target audience with an exceptional user experience and tons of value? Basecode can help. Contact us to learn more.