Congratulations, you have finally succeeded in developing your business app. Your app layout is impressive, your friends and family members are in awe of it, and it works flawlessly on every device you test it on. Now all you have to do is upload it to the designated app store, and users will immediately start downloading it after which you can expect a good ROI.
Creating an app is a challenging task but increasing the number of downloads for your app is the trickier part of app development. Given the tremendous amount of competition on both the Google Play Store and Apple iOS, convincing mobile users to download a new app is a never-ending trial. In fact, experts have reported that the Apple App Store grows by 1,000 apps each day. Unfortunately, an average mobile user downloads precisely zero new apps per month while only 0.01% of apps manage to see financial success.
So does this mean your app is doomed from the start? Or are there any legit ways to increase the downloads and gain the loyalty of consumers?
Luckily, today’s post is here to help. We have compiled a list of tips that will aid in increasing the downloads of your first business app and enable you to make some good profit. So without further delays, here are the top seven ways to amp up your app downloads.
1.Create an attractive icon
They say the first impression is the last one. When it comes to your app, the image or the logo is the first thing that most mobile users notice. Most users just scroll through the list of apps in the app store and yours should be the one that stands out amidst all to catch the attention of the browsers.
Take the example of iHomework – the app for iOS. Their icon features a backpack with a few books inside instantly making the mobile user connect the image with school and lessons. Another excellent example of an app with an enticing icon is Interior design for iPad. Their app icon displays a room with sofa set, books, and wall frames prompting the user to click ‘download’ if they want to learn more about decorating elements.
Make sure the design that you choose provides users with a clue about your app. However, avoid flashy icons and try to be as simple and attractive as possible.
2.Use keywords in title and description
The process of app store optimization increases the visibility of apps in search engines. The technique boosts app downloads and enables the developers to make more money from their efforts. In fact, Forrester claims that 63% of app installs come through app store searches. According to another finding, apps with keywords in titles rank 10.3% higher than those without a keyword.
Make sure the title of your app and description both have the keywords included. For example, if you are making an app for dog food, try to add the words dog food, pet food, and etc. in your description as well as the title.
Another excellent example of an app using keywords appropriately is the Big Barn World game by AirG. The description of the app includes the words big, barn, and world several times, which helps boost its ranking in search engines.
3.Add an app video
App stores allow the developers to add short descriptive videos of the apps in the information category. The videos are helpful in increasing engagement with the users. The videos also assist the potential users in getting a glimpse of what they should expect from your brand.
For instance, the Home Depot has added videos in its e-commerce app that showcases their products. For a customer, the app is literally like standing in a Home Depot store that enhances their purchase decisions.
According to AdExchanger, apps with videos garner 30% more engagement than images. Consumers who view a video on a digital medium are approximately 70% more likely to convert to users. Simply put, add videos to your app description and if possible – embed them in your app as well. And don’t forget to share the same on your social media, website, etc.
4.Use the power of social media
According to Statista, there were 2.46 billion social media users in 2017 while analysts expect that the numbers will increase to 2.77 billion by the year 2019.
Social media is a growing community and a proven way to build brand awareness and increase engagement with consumers. When implemented correctly, social media marketing methods can help you get the attention of many prospects. In fact, 50 million small businesses use Facebook to connect with their customers. Other social media platforms where apps tend to get the most attention include:
- YouTube
Focus on the channels that are best suited for your target audience. Be consistent in posting updates about your app and business. Make sure that you reply to responses by your consumers and maintain a positive relationship with them.
5.User reviews
Another great way to increase downloads for your business app is by getting positive reviews from the users. When app users see that others had a positive experience with your app, they are more likely to try it out themselves.
According to the findings by BrightLocal’s 2017 Local Consumer Review Survey, 73% of consumers trust a local business more when they read a positive review. Additionally, 85% of consumers believe online reviews as much as a personal recommendation.
Apart from user’s review, it is also a good idea to send your app to review sites such as Yelp, Google, and BBB.org.
6.Sell free initially
Although your primary goal of making the app is to make money – try selling it for free during the launch. Free apps get more attention and ultimately more downloads. If you have already listed your app for a paid model, consider making it open for a few weeks.
Do the same with in-app purchases and change it to free for a while. The movement will increase the number of downloads and encourage users to try the app more. Once you have managed to grab the attention of users, you can try raising the price again.
7.Continue listening to the users
Understanding the demands of your consumers is essential. The app users of today are very choosy and are not the one to compromise on spam apps. In fact, 77% of mobile users would instantly uninstall an app if they were not satisfied with any aspect. Moreover, faulty apps cost the U.S. economy a massive loss that can be minimized by using the best practices in app development.
To ensure that your app continues to grow loyalty amongst users – be consistent with your efforts. Continue to improve your app and if a user comes up with some criticism – make sure that you try to resolve the issue at your first convenience.
Additionally, keep engaging with your audience and respond to all feedbacks given by them.
Final words
To survive the demands of the industry, make sure you use the best practices when developing your brand and use the above tips to build brand awareness. With plenty of effort and creativity – your app will also have a chance to make it to the top. Good luck and do let us know which technique you found useful!
