Currently, I spend time each day following people I think would be interested. Anyone who follows back I send a message with a sign-up link and code for a discount. It's not a very scalable strategy but for now, it's working. It's also allowed me to get authentic user feedback and build genuine connections with users. 🙂🙂🙂
I would drive a mix of 1. reaching out to your existing network (this most likely brings you the first users, that will also be able to give you feedback, as you know them already) and 2. Targeted Email Campaigns (To extend the reach of your campaign). Furthermore it can be beneficial to utilize Social Media channels to post about your product frequently to build followers.
Referrals and guerrilla marketing are great strategies. I recall working for a quick commerce grocery delivery startup where we used to hand out flyers to people leaving supermarkets with their shopping bags. It proved to be both effective and cost-efficient, as we were reaching users at a moment when they were already thinking about groceries—capturing them at the perfect time and in the right context.
I would run targeted ads on platforms where my audience spends the most time, by starting small and experimenting to see what works best.
Teaming-up with other small businesses is also an option, wherein we can cross-promote each other's products and reach a wider audience.
Some online groups and forums are also of help, as these are where we could find the ideal potential customers.
We can share helpful tips, answer to the problems people are facing, have some unique aspects discovered, and build lasting relationships, as people are more likely to buy from someone they know and trust.
Influencers can also help with getting a product OUT in the market, but ONLY if it aligns and makes sense for the product.
You can look for micro-influencers in your niche who have engaged followers, as they can get the product that traction.
Additionally, you can get some users to test out the product (alpha/beta users) and give valuable feedback. They become the biggest advocates as testimonials.
You can then use their feedback to improve the product and optimize landing page(s).
word of mouth, reddit, blogs, communities, social channels.
Main factor is that all of these are available to everyone, how's that put to use is what determines the best outcome for a business.