I'm working on an educational web app specifically designed for teachers. I've managed to optimize it for SEO and it's been indexed by Google, but I'm struggling to attract organic traffic. Right now, the app is only discoverable if someone knows its name. In the past, I successfully collaborated with TikTok teachers and paid them based on the engagement their promotional videos received. However, I'm having trouble finding teachers who are willing to promote my site this time around.
I also tried Facebook ads, but after spending $200, I only got a few clicks with no actual users. I know that Facebook groups often have strict rules against soliciting, and while I've mentioned the app to a few teachers I know, I haven't pushed them to actually share it.
I'm open to the possibility that the app may lack appeal or value, but I feel like I just haven't been able to reach the right audience of teachers. I would feel more reassured if I could get 20 to 40 sign-ups, even if none convert to subscribers. If it turns out that teachers simply don't want it, I'd be okay with that.
I'm not sure if this is the right place to ask, but hypothetically, if I were to hire a marketing agency (though that's not my plan), what kind of strategies might they use? How have others successfully attracted users beyond just fellow developers?
2 Answers
When building your app, did you consider collaborating with any teachers for feedback? Their insights can be invaluable.
It sounds like the issue might be less about visibility and more about distribution. I've been in a similar situation waiting for my SEO efforts to bear fruit. Have you thought about directly reaching out to teachers or smaller communities instead of relying on ads?
So far, the only outreach has been to TikTok teachers to promote the app. I offered them free subscriptions for the rest of the year, but I haven’t contacted regular teachers directly yet. You’re right—getting their feedback could be more valuable than the $3 subscription! I’ll start reaching out to teachers more.
I did reach out to two teachers for feedback. They mentioned wanting better organization for assignments—which I’ve included—but they still tend to use Google Classroom, and breaking that habit is tough. I didn’t realize my app competes with it, which wasn't my intention. Even though my app offers different features, transitioning from Google Classroom is challenging for them.