Introduction
The first 100 users are the hardest to get but also the most important. This guide provides step-by-step strategies tailored for tech, real estate, fashion, and creative startups to launch, validate, and grow user acquisition.
Step 1: Define Your Ideal User
- Identify your target audience based on industry, behavior, and pain points.
- Create a simple user persona with demographics and motivations.
Step 2: Build an Early Adopter List
- Leverage personal networks, LinkedIn, and startup communities.
- Offer incentives like exclusive access, discounts, or referral rewards.
- Launch a “Coming Soon” landing page with an email capture form.
Step 3: Leverage Niche Channels for Growth
- Tech Startups → Reddit, IndieHackers, ProductHunt pre-launch marketing.
- Real Estate Startups → Partner with brokers, list on real estate investor groups.
- Fashion Startups → Instagram influencers, TikTok content marketing.
- Creative/Marketing Startups → Twitter threads, Medium blogs, LinkedIn case studies.
Step 4: Execute Targeted Outreach
- Cold Email Campaigns: Reach out to industry leaders and potential users.
- Direct Engagement: Join Slack groups, Facebook communities, and LinkedIn discussions.
- Referral Programs: Give existing users incentives for inviting friends.
Step 5: Create Urgency & FOMO
- Use waitlists, limited access beta tests, and scarcity marketing.