Launch Strategy: Getting Your First 100 Users

Webstok Innovations
Jun 9
3 min read

Launching a new app or digital product is exciting — but what truly matters is getting your first 100 real users. These early adopters are crucial. They’ll give you feedback, validate your idea, and help you build traction.

Whether you're a startup founder, a product manager, or a digital agency launching on behalf of a client, this guide will walk you through a step-by-step strategy to get your first 100 users effectively and affordably.

Why Your First 100 Users Matter

Real-world validation: See how users interact with your product
Feedback loop: Find bugs, confusion points, and value gaps early
Social proof: Leverage these users for testimonials, reviews, and case studies
Growth foundation: Word-of-mouth from your first 100 can bring your next 1,000

Step-by-Step Strategy to Get Your First 100 Users

1. Start with Your Network

Leverage your personal and professional connections.

Reach out to friends, family, colleagues, and past clients.
Send personalized messages explaining what you’ve built and how it helps.
Ask for feedback, not just signups. This increases engagement.

2. Offer an Exclusive Early Access or Beta

People love being early adopters if they feel special.

Create a landing page with an email signup form.
Offer perks: lifetime discount, priority support, or exclusive features.
Limit beta access to increase perceived value.

3. Join and Engage in Niche Communities

Your target users already hang out somewhere online. Go there.

Participate in Reddit, Facebook groups, Discord servers, or industry forums.
Provide value first: answer questions, share insights.
Softly promote your app when relevant (no spamming!).

4. Find Micro-Influencers or Thought Leaders

Partner with people who already have small but trusted followings in your niche.

Reach out with a short pitch + free access.
Offer co-branded content or affiliate/referral links.
Ask for a tweet, blog mention, or YouTube shoutout.

5. Launch on ProductHunt, IndieHackers, or Betalist

These platforms are built to help you get exposure among early adopters.

Prep with clear visuals, a great tagline, and early testimonials.
Build a small support team to upvote and comment on launch day.
Follow up with every comment and message.

6. Use Cold Outreach — But Smartly

Personalized cold emails or DMs can work wonders.

Identify your ideal user profile on LinkedIn or Twitter.
Send a short message with clear value, not spam.
Offer a limited trial or free version for honest feedback.

7. Run a Referral or Give-Away Campaign

Your early users can be your best promoters.

Offer incentives for referring others: gift cards, free upgrades, etc.

8. Local or Niche Influencer Ads (Optional Paid Strategy)

If you have some budget, spend it wisely.

Run Instagram or TikTok ads targeting local or niche audiences.
Test ads with clear CTAs like “Join our beta” or “Get 1 month free.”

9. Collect Feedback & Create a Community

Once people start joining — keep them engaged.

Create a Slack, Discord, or Telegram group.
Ask questions, listen, and show you care about their input.
Share product updates and involve them in the journey.

10. Document Everything Publicly

People love to follow real stories and progress.

Share milestones, struggles, and learnings on Twitter, LinkedIn, or a blog.
Use hashtags like #buildinpublic to attract like-minded users and supporters.

Final Thoughts

Getting your first 100 users isn’t about luck — it’s about hustle, authenticity, and providing value. Every interaction matters. Focus on users who truly need your product, not just anyone who signs up.

Once you get them in, deliver an experience so good they can't help but talk about it.

Ready to Launch Smarter?

Struggling to get your first users? Don’t go it alone. At Webstok, we help startups and growing businesses build, launch, and scale powerful web and mobile applications — with a launch strategy baked in.

Free 30-Minute Launch Consultation MVP Development & User Onboarding Strategy Growth-Ready Design & Scalable Tech

Book a free strategy call Contact Us today and let’s get your first 100 users — and your next 1,000.