Your First 100 Users: Where to Find Them After You Launch

Launching a new software product or app is an exciting milestone — but it’s only the beginning. The real challenge lies in attracting your first 100 users, which can set the foundation for sustainable growth and build valuable momentum. Without an initial user base, it’s difficult to validate your product, gather feedback, and refine your offering.

In this blog, we’ll explore proven strategies and targeted channels to help you find your first 100 users after launch. Whether you’re a startup founder, solo developer, or part of a small team, these tactics will help you connect with early adopters who are eager to try your product.

Why Your First 100 Users Matter

Before diving into where to find these early users, it’s important to understand why they matter:

• Validation: Early users confirm your product’s value and usability.
• Feedback: They provide insights to improve features and fix bugs.
• Social Proof: Their testimonials and reviews can attract more users.
• Referrals: Early adopters often share your product with their networks.
• Momentum: A small, engaged user base can generate buzz and attract media attention.

Where to Find Your First 100 Users

Finding your initial users requires strategic outreach across multiple channels. Here are the most effective sources:

1. Your Personal Network

Why:
Your friends, family, colleagues, and professional contacts are often the easiest to reach and most willing to support your project.

How:

• Send personalized messages explaining your product.
• Ask for honest feedback and if they’re willing to try it out.
• Encourage them to share with their network if they like it.

Tips:

• Create a simple onboarding process for friends and family.
• Offer incentives for referrals, like exclusive features or early access.

2. Niche Online Communities and Forums

Why:
Communities centered around your product’s niche are filled with potential early adopters who are passionate and engaged.

Where:

• Reddit (subreddits related to your industry)
• ProductHunt Discussions
• Specialized forums (e.g., Stack Overflow, Designer Hangouts)
• Facebook Groups and LinkedIn Groups

How:

• Participate genuinely in discussions.
• Share your journey and seek feedback.
• Avoid spammy promotion; focus on value and building relationships.

Tips:

• Identify active communities with engaged members.
• Offer helpful advice before promoting your product.

3. Social Media Channels

Why:
Platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram allow direct interaction with potential users.

How:

• Regularly share updates, behind-the-scenes content, and customer stories.
• Use relevant hashtags to increase visibility.
• Engage with comments and DMs to build relationships.

Tips:

• Collaborate with micro-influencers in your niche.
• Run targeted ads for initial exposure (small budget).

4. Content Marketing & SEO

Why:
Creating valuable content attracts organic traffic and positions you as an authority.

What to Do:

• Write blog posts, tutorials, or videos related to your product’s problem space.
• Optimize content with relevant keywords.
• Share content on social media and relevant communities.

Tips:

• Offer downloadable resources like guides or checklists to capture emails.
• Use SEO tools to identify high-volume keywords.

5. Product Hunt & Launch Platforms

Why:
Platforms dedicated to launching new products can generate significant visibility.

How:

• Prepare a compelling product page with visuals, videos, and clear value propositions.
• Engage with the community before and during the launch.
• Encourage early users to upvote and share.

Tips:

• Reach out to your network to support your launch.
• Follow up with feedback requests post-launch.

6. Beta Testing & Early Access Programs

Why:
Offering early access to select users creates exclusivity and loyalty.

How:

• Invite industry experts, influencers, or loyal customers.
• Use tools like BetaTesting, TestFlight (for iOS), or manual onboarding.
• Collect feedback and showcase early success stories.

Tips:

• Build a waitlist to generate anticipation.
• Offer incentives for early adopters who provide feedback.

7. Paid Advertising (With Caution)

Why:
Targeted ads can accelerate user acquisition, especially for niche markets.

Channels:

• Google Ads
• Facebook/Instagram Ads
• LinkedIn Ads (for B2B products)

How:

• Start with small budgets and precise targeting.
• Track performance closely and optimize campaigns.

Tips:

• Use compelling landing pages aligned with your ad copy.
• A/B test different creatives and messaging.

Additional Tips for Converting Early Users into Loyal Customers

• Onboarding: Make the onboarding process simple and engaging.
• Customer Support: Offer prompt, helpful support to build trust.
• Gather Feedback: Use surveys or direct outreach to understand their needs.
• Show Appreciation: Recognize early adopters with personalized thank-yous or perks.

Conclusion

Reaching your first 100 users is a critical milestone that requires a mix of strategic outreach, community engagement, and targeted marketing. By leveraging your personal network, engaging with niche communities, creating valuable content, and utilizing launch platforms, you can build a committed early user base that drives growth and validates your product.

Remember, early adopters are your most valuable assets — treat them well, listen to their feedback, and nurture relationships that can turn into long-term customers and advocates.

Ready to Launch?

If you’re looking for expert guidance on building, launching, and scaling your software product, the MVP Launchpad Agency is here to help. From idea validation to user acquisition strategies, we specialize in turning innovative concepts into successful products.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey from first user to thriving business!

Your journey to your first 100 users starts now — take action today!