App Ratings
Ratings and reviews are some of the most effective organic marketing tools for apps. Not only do they reassure potential customers about the quality of your product, but they can also affect your ranking in app store search results. For these reasons, it's vital that you actively encourage and cultivate strong positive reviews.
Many businesses think they have no control over the content of their reviews and ratings. However, by encouraging users to rate you — and, of course, having a stellar product for them to rate — you can increase the number of positive reviews. Incentivizing users by allowing them to unlock new features once they submit a rating is one way. Follow-up marketing campaigns by email, text or push notification are another.
What's important is that the process is subtle and doesn't detract from the functionality of your app.
App Contests and Giveaways
Contests and giveaways are consistently effective methods of engaging app users. Some of the benefits of holding periodic contests and giveaways include:
1
Make your products desirable
They make your products seem more desirable. Even if you only give out a small number of freebies, a contest or giveaway will generate interest in your product and potentially drive more people to check it out.
2
User experience
They "gamify" the user experience. Everyone loves the possibility of reward — and a contest or giveaway creates a sense of anticipation that fosters a deeper connection with your brand.
6
Increase awareness
They increase awareness. Contests and giveaways turn your users into a community of active participants — particularly when social media is involved.
While a contest or giveaway is no substitute for a thorough marketing plan, it can be an easy way of invigorating your efforts, and a focal point for engaging users.
