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The TikTok Organic Strategy That Led to 320K App Downloads

Science & Technology

Introduction

In a recent discussion, we had the pleasure of speaking with Stephen Cravotta, the creator of the widely popular app Wordle and the founder of Juice Media. Stephen shared his remarkable journey and insights into effectively leveraging TikTok for organic growth that propelled his app, Puff Count, to nearly 320,000 downloads, all without spending a dime on ads.

The Backstory of Wordle

Stephen's foray into app development started at a young age, and after several attempts, he developed a word game called Wordle in 2015. Initially, this app did not find significant success; it was a project he considered dead, receiving little attention over the years. However, in December 2021, Stephen’s life changed dramatically. He was surprised to discover that his dormant game had garnered over 300,000 downloads in just one week. Curiously, a New York Times article was at the center of this sudden surge, announcing another developer's similar game - they both happened to share the name "Wordle."

Donation to Charity

Stephen also emphasized a commendable aspect of his journey: through the newfound success of Wordle, he was able to donate proceeds to a charity called Boost Oakland. He formed a connection with the other Wordle creator, Josh Wardle, amplifying positivity out of a chaotic situation.

TikTok Organic Growth Strategy

Turning to the promotion strategy of Puff Count, Stephen detailed how TikTok became the primary catalyst for its growth. After trying various paid advertising methods that yielded low returns, he recognized the emerging potential of organic TikTok content.

Content Creation Begins

Stephen began posting regularly on TikTok, initially facing mixed results. However, he quickly discovered a winning formula, identifying the type of content that resonated with the TikTok audience. His first few TikToks yielded varying views, but one video skyrocketed to 80,000 views and subsequently drove 3,000 downloads of Puff Count. Over the next two years, he amassed around 90,000 followers, generating over 55 million views and pushing Puff Count close to 300,000 downloads organically.

The Power of Engagement

Stephen's TikTok strategy involved creating engaging content that resonated with potential users. One of his most effective techniques was market research. He searched keywords relevant to quitting vaping on TikTok, analyzed popular videos, and drew inspiration from their formats, hooks, and storytelling styles. This strategic approach enabled him to recreate successful formats in alignment with his audience’s preferences.

In addition to content creation, hashtags played a crucial role. While hashtags alone won’t guarantee virality, they aid in reaching the intended audience and can help content rank higher in searches over time. As Stephen noted, TikTok content has even begun to act like a new form of SEO, continually drawing traffic from older posts even years later.

Stephen emphasized the importance of competing in a playground-like environment, where creators can post freely and test various ideas. He suggested that regular posting, at least daily during the initial stages, is crucial for overcoming barriers in content creation.

Leverage Popular Content

Furthermore, Stephen noted how paying attention to viewer comments sparked ideas for new content. For instance, by responding to inquiries in the comments, he could produce additional TikToks that simply answered questions but also drew viewers in.

Real-World Examples

Stephen explored concepts such as engaging relatable scenarios in videos that parents might face, effectively using humor while spreading awareness about Puff Count. He also shared insights into how the organic growth strategy he developed through TikTok could be adapted across various platforms such as Instagram and YouTube, creating a cohesive video marketing strategy.

Conclusion

Through dedication and constant testing of TikTok content, Stephen successfully translated a creative approach into tangible results for Puff Count. His strategy stands as a testament to the power of organic growth and user engagement in the ever-evolving realm of social media marketing.

Keywords

  • TikTok
  • Organic Growth
  • Puff Count
  • Wordle
  • App Downloads
  • Content Creation
  • Market Research
  • Hashtags
  • Engagement

FAQ

Q: How did Stephen Cravotta initially find success with Wordle?
A: Stephen built Wordle in 2015 as a side project. It gained fame in December 2021 after being featured in a New York Times article due to confusion with another Wordle game.

Q: What strategy did he use for promoting Puff Count?
A: He focused on creating TikTok content that resonated with users, utilizing market research to analyze successful videos, and implementing engaging elements such as hashtags and humor.

Q: How important are hashtags in TikTok content?
A: Hashtags help reach specific audiences and can enhance the visibility of videos in searches, potentially leading to higher engagement levels.

Q: How often should someone post on TikTok?
A: It is recommended to post at least once a day to build momentum and test various content strategies.

Q: Can humor be used effectively in serious app promotions?
A: Yes, Stephen illustrated that humor can help convey serious messages effectively, making the content more relatable to potential users.