HowTheyGotUsersHowTheyGotUsers

Carpet the Reputable Software Directories Only

Carpet the Reputable Software Directories Only is a seo & organic tactic for getting your first users: Listing the app on quality software directories and showcase sites (AlternativeTo, Download.com, Product Hunt, Indie Hackers, dev-portfolio and showcase sites, linktr.ee) while deliberately avoiding spammy 'post to 500+ sites' services.

It's a strong fit for teams of almost any kind, and works especially well for downloadable software, apps, tools. As a seo & organic play, plan for medium effort and expect results to build gradually over time, all grounded in 1 linked primary source.

SEO & organicMedium effortSlow

Why does seo & organic work for this?

High-quality directories send durable, intent-driven traffic and backlinks, whereas bulk low-quality listings just associate you with scam and malware sites.

The exact steps (4)

The full step-by-step this founder ran, what they posted, where, and in what order, plus the watch-outs, is part of the library.

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Sources

Works for
Any / universal

Frequently asked

How is the "Carpet the Reputable Software Directories Only" tactic verified?
It is drawn from 1 primary source — a real founder write-up or interview, not generic advice. It is linked in the Sources section above so you can read the original account yourself.
How much effort is it and how fast are results?
It is medium effort, and results tend to be slow.
Where can I see the exact step-by-step?
The full step-by-step a founder ran, documented via Source — IndieHackers, is in the paid library.

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