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.