If you are a developer with a great new app, naturally you will want to get the word out so others can try it. One of the best ways to do so is to have the app reviewed on popular app blogs. Having your app reviewed will increase its exposure to consumers and provide a boost to your total download number. A review can be the difference between app success and failure.
With more than 11,000 new apps and games submitted for release each month on iTunes alone, getting your app reviewed will not be easy, especially if you are a new or relatively unknown developer. If you are not a big, well-known company, you will have to ask for reviews. The way you ask is very important. You should never pay for a review. In addition, you will want to avoid some other common mistakes.
How to Make Your Pitch Worthwhile
Bloggers are very busy people and will need very specific information about your app to consider it for review. You will need to make a strong impression to convey the app is worthy of the blogger’s attention. Be sure to state the exact name of the app as it appears in the app store. You should also explain what the app does and what makes it different from other apps on the market.
Your proposal must also include the app’s price, a link to its page on your website, a link to its iTunes or Google Play page, a couple of screenshots, a 30-second video, and a concise description detailing who the intended audience is, what the app does, and what makes it different. Finally, your pitch has to include your contact information such as email address, phone number, Skype, and Twitter IDs.
The Importance of a Press Release
Shreyes Kejariwal says, “Your press release is an essential component of your app’s press kit.” Many bloggers will request your press release when you ask them to review your android apps. Traditional reporters such as those who work for magazines and newspapers will expect your press release to be included with your pitch. This can vary based on who you are asking for a review from.
If you choose to add a press release to your pitch, you will not want to make it an attachment. Instead, include the press release in the body of your message. You could paste it at the bottom of your email, after your signature.
Make Your Pitch Personal
When writing your pitch, it is essential to identify with the person to whom you are sending it. If you were pitching a productivity app, you would not want to request a review from a gaming blog. Be sure to mention the person by name, as this can go a long way in gaining the interest and attention of the receiver. Do not send mass emails.
Crafting the perfect pitch takes practice but is instrumental in getting your app’s attention from experienced bloggers. You will want to be persistent, but without coming across as pretentious or trying too hard. Keep these tips in mind and you will be well on your way to gaining exposure for your app and increasing its popularity with the use of blog reviews.
