If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve already taken that crucial first step toward online success—your product is live! That’s a huge accomplishment, so congratulations! But here’s the thing: having a great product is only half the battle. Getting customers to find, love, and stick with your product is the other half.
Gaining new users takes time and effort, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right strategies, you can grow your online business effectively. Ready to get started? Here are 21 awesome ways to growth hack your business:
1. Start a Blog
Blogging is a cornerstone of inbound marketing that works wonders. Your blog should provide real value to your customers or influencers. Focus on a specific area and deliver high-quality content consistently. The goal is to build a loyal community of readers who, over time, will help grow your business. Remember, it’s not about promoting yourself—write about topics that solve problems for your audience.
2. Write Guest Posts
Guest blogging gets your message in front of new audiences. When you write for other blogs, you can link back to your own blog, driving traffic and boosting your SEO. Plus, it helps you build relationships with other bloggers, expanding your influence in your niche.
3. Invite Guest Bloggers
Flip the script and invite guest bloggers to contribute to your blog. It brings fresh perspectives and attracts their audience to your site. Ask them to share their post with their followers, expanding your reach even further.
4. Write an Ebook
Don’t be intimidated by the idea of writing a book! You probably already have great content on your blog that you can repurpose. Compile your best posts, add some structure, and turn it into a short ebook. You can use tools like paywithatweet.com to let people download it in exchange for a social share.
5. Monitor the Web and Engage
Stay on top of what people are saying about your brand and industry. Tools like Google Alerts or Colibri can notify you when your brand or relevant topics are mentioned. React with helpful comments or answers, and show that you’re engaged and in the know.
6. Leave Meaningful Comments
Make a list of relevant blogs or platforms in your industry and participate in discussions. Always use your real name and bring value to the conversation—don’t just drop your link and leave. Engaging thoughtfully helps build your reputation and credibility.
7. Teach Classes
Showcase your expertise by creating useful guides or classes on platforms like Udemy or Skillshare. This is a great way to build credibility and connect with an audience that’s already interested in learning from you.
8. Reuse Content Across Free Channels
Don’t let your content live only on your blog. Repurpose it into different formats—infographics, videos, or presentations—and share it across platforms like YouTube, SlideShare, and Facebook. The more places people can find you, the more traffic you’ll drive.
9. Don’t Ignore SEO
SEO is still incredibly important for driving organic traffic. Make sure you’re using keywords in your titles and headings, and don’t forget to optimize your meta descriptions and image ALT tags. Use tools like Quicksprout to analyze your website for SEO improvements.
10. Build Links
Good content alone isn’t enough—you need backlinks to grow your audience. Tools like Buzzstream and Link Prospector can help you find opportunities to build links and spread your content across the web.
11. Use Rich Snippets
Rich snippets make your content stand out in search results by displaying extra information like images or reviews. Implementing them can help improve your click-through rate (CTR) and boost your rankings.
12. Make the Most of PPC Ads
Pay-per-click (PPC) ads can be effective, but they’re often wasted if the landing page doesn’t match the ad. Make sure your landing pages deliver on what the ad promises and lead users directly to a specific call to action.
13. Try Remarketing
Remarketing targets people who’ve already shown interest in your site. It’s more cost-effective than regular ads and brings back users who are already familiar with your product. Just make sure your ads aren’t too pushy—nobody likes being bombarded!
14. Hook Early Adopters
Platforms like Betali.st and Erlibird list startups that are in beta. These are great places to attract early adopters who love trying out new products and giving feedback. Get your product listed and start building an engaged user base early.
15. Leverage API Integrations
Tap into the user bases of bigger platforms by integrating your product with them. APIs let you connect with platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google, allowing you to grow your audience through integrations.
16. Partner with Other Brands
Teaming up with complementary brands can help you reach new audiences. Whether it’s through cross-promotion, joint marketing campaigns, or giveaways, working with other brands can boost your visibility and credibility.
17. Get Free Press with HARO
HARO (Help A Reporter Out) connects experts with journalists looking for sources. It’s a great way to get quoted in the media and earn high-quality backlinks. Plus, it helps establish you as an authority in your industry.
18. Speak at Events
Don’t limit yourself to digital platforms—real-world events are a great way to grow your brand. Whether it’s a local meetup or a larger conference, speaking engagements help you connect with potential customers and industry peers.
19. Organize a Conference
Want to really make a splash in your niche? Organize your own event! Invite industry experts, attract press coverage, and get your brand name out there. Start small with meetups and grow from there.
20. Try Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter are perfect for raising money and awareness for your product. Not only can you fund your project, but you can also gain early supporters and press attention.
21. Get Listed in the Chrome Web Store
Adding your web app to the Chrome Web Store is easy and inexpensive (just $5). It won’t be a huge traffic driver, but it’s a great way to get your app in front of Chrome’s millions of users. Every little bit helps!
