As a developer, creating a mobile app is only half the equation—you also need to build an audience. Without a solid consumer base, your app will languish in obscurity no matter how well it operates.
But how do you go about building an audience for your app? There are several key steps you can take.
Look at your analytics
One of the best places to start is by looking at your app analytics to gain insight into who is already using your app and how they utilize each feature. This information can be beneficial as you plan your marketing strategy. Specifically, as you keep an eye on your mobile app analytics, you should look for things like:
- The locations of your users
- The age groups of your users
- The devices your users are using
- The times of day your users are most active
This information will help target your marketing efforts.
Research your competition
You should also take some time to research your competition. See what other apps are in your space and see what they’re doing to build an audience. Doing this can spark ideas and campaigns for your marketing efforts for your startup.
You should also look at the reviews of your competition to gain valuable insight into what consumers seek in different applications. Additionally, seeking competitor information can help you avoid the same mistakes, allowing you to stand out amongst your peers as you roll out your application.
Create a marketing plan
Once you have collected valuable information, it’s time to start developing a marketing plan. First, you should tailor your marketing plan to your specific app and audience. But there are some general things that every marketing plan should include.
Channels
First, narrow down which channels you’ll use to reach your target audience. Identifying specific areas will depend on your target audience and where they are most likely to be found. Some common channels include social media, paid advertising, email marketing, and PR.
Messaging
Next, you need to develop branding and consistent messaging. What are you trying to achieve with your app? What makes it different from the competition? Why should people care? Your messaging should be clear, concise, and compelling.
Goals
Finally, it’s time to outline achievable goals and begin working toward your application ambitions. What are you hoping to achieve with your marketing efforts? How will you know if you are successful? Again, be specific and realistic.
Once you’ve narrowed down your channels, branding, and achievable goals, you’re ready to build your app’s audience with a solid marketing plan.
Execute your plan
Now it’s time to put your marketing plan into action—which is where the real work begins. But if you have done your research and have a well-thought-out plan, you will be in good shape.
Start by creating interactive, high-quality content. Typically, content is the foundation of your marketing efforts, so keep media informative, engaging, and valuable.
Next, get the word out. Use your chosen channels to reach your target audience. Share your content, run ads, send emails, and do whatever else you can to get people to take notice.
Finally, keep an eye on your progress. First, track your goals to see how well your marketing efforts are paying off. Then, make adjustments to continue building your audience and achieving your goals while providing excellent customer service.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can start to build an audience for your app. Though it will take time and effort, developing a solid base is well worth it in the end. Then, you can achieve your goals and take your app to the next level with a substantial audience.