How to Generate Millions of Downloads with Short Form Content
đ¤ Step 1: Optimize Profile đŁď¸ Step 2: Finding your ICP (Ideal Customer Profile) đ Step 3: Creating a Viral Content System đ Step 4: Creator Sourcing and Placement đ˛ Step 5: Generating Downloads
Why Organic is Essential for Your Consumer App in 2025
This could be you:
Umax - $3M+ in sales this year from mass UGC strategy
Plug AI - 1.5M downloads in 4 months from mass UGC strategy ($190k MRR)
WhatColors â> over $500k from mass UGC strategy in 8 months
PhotoMath â> over $2M in revenue last month from mass UGC strategy
Coconote â> over $300k in revenue last month from Viral Reels
Styl App â> over 120k downloads from Viral Reels
So, now you understand just how crucial shortform is for your business. But here's the good news: you don't have to figure it out on your own.
I've got your back every step of the way.
Together, we'll dive into the secrets of crafting a shortform brand that delivers real results.
From capturing attention to inspiring action, I'll guide you through the process of creating a shortform presence that converts into 6 fig months.
These are the exact fundamentals we use across Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, and not just TikTok. However, for the sake of time we will focus on TikTok in this ebook.
Before we can start launching this short form systemâŚ
We have to build the right foundations so weâre prepared.
Step 1: Foundations
The Pre-build
Optimizing Your Profile
When you first create a new account in order to not get flagged as a bot you need to scroll through the for you page, like and comment, and save every couple of hours for the next 24 hours.
Search up keywords and hashtags in your niche and engage with that content.
1. Profile Picture & Username
Upload either your logo or a picture related to your niche from pinterest
The username should be either the app's name OR relevant keywords in the niche e.g. "studyhacks"
2. Bio
Create an ORGANIC bio for your account. Don't sound like a bot. Under 1000 followers you won't be able to have a clickable link in bio.
TurboLearn Bio Example:
Leave your next lecture with detailed notes
Search "TurboLearn" in the App Store
đTemplate:
ââ Benefit â â
"â Organic CTA â "
3. Pinned Tiktok Videos
1st Pinned Tiktok Video - App Walkthrough
Shows how the app works
Directs all the traffic of the page to a high-conversion video
2nd Pinned Tiktok Video - Viral Hit
The purpose of this video is to capture the viewer's attention
Builds social proof
It's a highly relatable video
Finding your ICP (Ideal Customer Profile)
Finding out who your ideal customer is is essential to your business.
By defining your ICP, you will be able to focus your efforts on attracting the right people and turn them into your customers.
Defining your ICP
Who is your Ideal Customer?
Are they beginners or experienced?
How much money do they make?
What industry are they in?
Understanding Their Wants & Needs
What is your ICP's #1 most important goal?
What do they want to achieve the most?
What outcomes do they desire, but are having trouble achieving?
What do they desperately need the most?
Understanding Their Struggles
What are they struggling with the most?
Why haven't they been able to solve their problems yet?
What's a major roadblock holding them back from achieving success?
What are their biggest fears and pain points?
Creating Solutions to their Problems
How do your products/services help them achieve their desired outcome?
How can you remove their pain points and deliver them to their goals?
What specific solutions do you have that can help them solve their problems right now?
How long will it take for you to do it?
What's the value in you doing it? How urgent is it?
After you've answered these questions, you're ready to start creating organic content!
Step 2: Creator Sourcing and Placement
By now, we should know exactly what type of content we're going with and what niche we're speaking to.
Based on that, we tap into our database for the perfect creators.
Our Creator Network is a robust network of content creators across various domains.
Compatibility Assessment: For each project, we analyze the requirements and match them with the most compatible creators based on expertise, past performance, and project type.
This personalized pairing approach ensures maximum efficiency and success for every project.
Here's a walkthrough on how to find GOOD creators.
TikTok / IG manual search
This method to get ambassadors is actually really underrated. Here's 2 ways to do it:
TikTok search bar
Literally just search any keyword in your niche. NEEDS to be mobile (on your phone) so you get the extra advanced search features. I know, extra scrappy lol
E.g. you need people related to "tech sales" so just search that term
Following list
If you find a good creator, just look at their following list and these will often be even better than Search bar, since theyâre human-curated via the taste of the creator you just found.
E.g. find a good one, then look for keywords in the names of the following list
Creator Sourcing and Management Strategies
Frame it like you're doing them a favour when first talking to them:
You want them to create a separate account for your app and post there about you "Look MR Creator, we wouldn't want damage to be made to your brand nor to ours. You'll create an account on TikTok, from 0, and only post there about us"
Make sure they understand this is not a UGC job or an ad creative. You want them to come across as a genuine user of your product.
Put together viral examples of other apps going viral and getting users from tiktok no need to be in the same niche, but the creator needs to follow proven formats that drive user acquisition.
Legal and Financial Aspects
This can be a tricky one. Here are 3 absolute MUSTS when discussing contracts with creators:
YOU HAVE TO own the intellectual property of the content created, which should be clearly stated in the service agreement to avoid future disputes.
It's important to establish a consistent payment schedule, such as weekly payouts based on completed work, to ensure timely compensation for creators.
Creators need clear guidelines on how to invoice you, including necessary details such as their name, contact information, and services rendered.
PS: as soon as a video goes viral, spark that video and run the same creative on Meta with no targeting. ;)
Step 3: Creating an Organic Content System
Creating Hooks
What is a Hook?
A hook is the first 1-3 seconds of a video that grabs the viewer's attention and makes them keep watching.
A hook can make or break a video, with up to 70% of success depending on the hook.
The goal of a hook is to interrupt the viewer's pattern of scrolling and make them stop and watch the video.
Types of Hooks
Pattern Interrupt: A hook that interrupts the viewer's pattern of scrolling and grabs their attention.
Clickbait: A hook that is designed to be attention-grabbing and enticing, often using sensational or provocative language.
Components of a Hook
A hook consists of two parts: text and visuals.
Text
Should instantly intrigue people
Can be used to shock, surprise, or pique the viewer's interest
Visuals
Should grab the viewer's eyes and make them look at something
Can be used to create a sense of curiosity or intrigue
Viral Hook Templates (copy paste)
Template 1: "Wdym there's an app for this???"
Finance App: "Wdym there's an app that tracks my whole spend?? You're telling me I've been using five different apps for this when I could've had it all in one?"
Fitness App: "Wdym there's an app that customizes my workouts for free??? You're telling me I've been paying a trainer all this time when I didn't need to?"
Travel App: "Wdym there's an app that tells you the cheapest flights instantly??? I've been searching for hours on 10 websites like an idiot."
Template 2: "Um guys, if you're [doing this], just listen to me..."
Apartment Planning App: "Um guys, if you're trying to furnish your apartment, just listen to me...this app finds the best dupes for designer furniture, and it's literally saved me thousands."
Language Learning App: "Um guys, if you're still paying for language courses, just listen to me...this app teaches you in minutes a day, and it's way easier."
Budgeting App: "Um guys, if you're trying to save money and don't know where to start, just listen to me...this app breaks down every dollar you spend, and I wish I found it sooner."
Template 3: "One [relatable situation] and I just found this???"
Personal Finance App: "One year of managing my portfolio manually and I JUST found this app that tracks everything in one place?"
Study App: "One semester of all nighters, and I JUST found this app that explains everything step by step???"
Meal Planning App: "One month of stressing over dinner every night and I JUST found this app that plans everything for me???"
Creating Story Lines
What Are Modular Frameworks?
Modular frameworks break videos into smaller parts (blocks) like hooks, problem introductions, solutions, and calls to action (CTAs). Each block serves a specific purpose, making it easy to plan, replicate, and improve video content.
Key Frameworks and Their Blocks
1
Problem-Solution Framework
Hook: Catch attention by introducing a relatable problem.
Problem: Show the pain point in detail.
Solution: Highlight how your product solves the issue.
CTA: Prompt viewers to take action (e.g., buy, sign up).
Example:
Hook: "I was tired of losing track of my spending."
Solution: "This app automatically organizes my finances in seconds."
2
Intriguing Storyline Format
Hook: Grab attention with an emotional or surprising statement.
Deepen the Issue: Explain the problem further.
Solution: Introduce the product.
Benefits & Results: Share how it helps and the outcomes.
Fear Factor: Add urgency.
Example:
Hook: "Did you know 85% of women lose hair by age 30?"
Solution: "This spray saved my hairâand my confidence."
3
Educational Framework
Hook: Pose a question or interesting fact.
Question: Ask something the audience wants answered.
Explanation: Teach them while introducing your product.
Benefits & Results: Show why itâs effective.
Example:
Hook: "Why does coffee make you jittery?"
Question: "How do you stop it?"
Explanation: "This product gives you all the caffeine, without the jitters."
4
The H Storyline Framework
Hook: Catch attention with a bold or intriguing statement.
Storyline: Walk viewers through the problem and solution.
Product Introduction: Subtly showcase the product.
Example:
Hook: "How I stopped my hangovers before they started."
Storyline: "I use B vitamins, milk thistle, and ginger in this product."
Tips to Replicate and Customize
Break Videos into Blocks
Use predefined blocks (hook, problem, solution, etc.) to analyze and replicate successful videos.
Focus on Progression
Ensure each block flows naturally to the next for better engagement.
Combine Frameworks
Mix blocks from different frameworks to create unique, engaging content.
Keep It Visual
Pair concise messaging with clear, engaging visuals to maintain attention.
Experiment and Perfect
Test different variations of the frameworks to see what resonates with your audience.
âď¸Writing Engaging Scripts
Attention spans are low. We need to capture and maintain the audienceâs attention quickly. You wonât have time to use all the strategies to create an engaging script, so use what is appropriate for your offer and ICP.
Start with a strong hook that grabs the viewers attention - a provocative question, a surprising statement, a bold claim or an intriguing visual or sound. The goal here is to pique their curiosity
Keep it Short & Sweet - The script is concise, clear and impactful. Say what you need to say without extra fluff.
Address the viewerâs pain points - acknowledge their struggles or desiresd right from the beginning because youâll establish relevance and create a connection with them.
Create a sense of urgency - involve urgency or excitement within the first few seconds of your script. Communicate with the viewer they will miss out on something valuable or important if they donât continue watching.
Storytelling - Everyone loves stories. Your stories are conveyed through your script, not the video content. The video content is for visual stimulation, the script is for the story telling.Talk like youâre chatting with a friend - The script should always be written as if youâre talking to your buddy. Use easy words and be clear. You want everyone to understand and enjoy your video.
6. Talk like youâre chatting with a friend - The script should always be written as if youâre talking to your buddy. Use easy words and be clear. You want everyone to understand and enjoy your video.
7. Use powerful words to evoke emotions and engage your audience - Powerful words hooks your audienceâs attention. These are some words that you can use in your own script:
Impactful
Magical
Breathless
Unleash
Unforgettable
8. Make them laugh - Add jokes or funny words to make people giggle. Funny videos will make people want to watch and share them.
9. Teach them something cool - For a lot of agency owners or solopreneurs going into the short form space, this is their best strategy to build authority and go viral. People will listen to them because theyâre experts in their field and can educate other people.
10. CTA - Ask your audience to do something - like, follow, comment or share your video. If you want them to do something, donât be afraid to ask them.
đŁď¸CTAs (Calls-to-Action)
A CTA, or âcall to actionâ, is a concise and compelling statement that prompts users to take a specific action, such as making a purchase, signing up, or downloading.
They ultimately serve as the gateway from your content to conversion, so it's crucial that your CTA is optimized in order to give your visitors that final push.
Here's a quick guide along with some examples that'll help you craft an amazing CTA:
đââď¸Use Action-oriented Language
When crafting your CTA, focus on using strong and compelling verbs that encourage immediate action.
Instead of generic terms like "Submit" or "Click Here," try to use more specific and engaging phrases that clearly indicate the desired action.
Examples:
- âBook a Free Call Nowâ
- âClaim Your Free Trialâ
đ Highlight the Value Proposition
A great CTA goes beyond just telling users what to do; it also communicates the benefit or value they will receive by taking that action.
Incorporate a clear value proposition in your CTA that will emphasize exactly what they could gain from you.
Examples:
- âUnlock Exclusive Accessâ
- âBoost Your Revenueâ
âł Create a Sense of Urgency:
Urgency can be a powerful motivator.
By incorporating time-limited offers, limited quantities, or a deadline, you create a sense of urgency that encourages users to act promptly.
Examples:
- âGet This Limited Time Offerâ
- "Don't Miss Outâ
đ¨ Make It Visually Stand Out
A visually appealing CTA is more likely to grab users' attention.
Use bold colors that stand out from the rest of the page, bold text, or button styling to draw attention to your CTA. This visual distinction helps draw attention to the CTA and makes it more clickable and enticing.
đPosition It Prominently
The placement of your CTA can play a crucial role.
Position your CTA in a prominent location on the content that is easily seen and spotted.
For example, always position your first primary CTA above the fold where it is immediately visible without requiring users to scroll. This ensures that users encounter the CTA early on and increases the likelihood of engagement.
đŹ Content Types
Producing different content types strengthens your app/productâs presence and authority.
But what is it?
Content type refers to the broad category or genre of content. It categorizes content based on its purpose, format, or intended audience. It focuses on the overall purpose and nature of the content.
Why is this important to me?
Using various content types, you reach a wider audience, keeping them hooked and eager for more. Youâre able to target different segments of your audience, boosting your brand exposure.
It also allows you to stand out from the crowd. The last thing you want is the same types of content repeating.
With that being saidâŚ
Letâs take a look at the 5 most common content types:
â ď¸Client Testimonials
Often the most common content type on Tiktok.
Itâs sharing testimonials or reviews from satisfied clients to showcase your track record and build trust with potential clients.
Example:
âHow I helped my client add 20k MRR in 60 days using cold emailsâ
đ¸Educational/Informative
TikTok is also a platform for sharing knowledge and information.
Educational content types include: Tutorials Life hacks Quick tips Language lessons Science facts Historical insights
đSuccess Stories
Creators often showcase their successful client projects, case studies, or before-and-after transformations to demonstrate their capabilities and results they have achieved for their clients and themselves.
đĽPersonal Stories
This involves sharing personal experiences, challenges, or lessons learned along their entrepreneurial journey.
This helps humanize the brand and allows the audience to connect with you on a deeper level. The need for personal stories is needed now with the rise of AI.
Example:
âToday is my 23rd birthday I started my Twitter journey on the 2nd of January. Since then Iâve: Gained 2005 followers 565 newsletter subs Monetised my audience I never thought Iâd achieve something like this. Appreciate where you are nowâ
đ Industry Updates and Trends
Providing updates on the latest trends, news, or changes in the industry.
This positions the agency owner as a knowledgeable and up-to-date professional in their field.
Step 4. Conversion Fundamentals
Drive Conversions with Shortform
To succeed with shortform and convert viewers into customers, focus on these key pillars:
Product Context
Show the product clearly and in action.
Highlight benefits and features with high-quality visuals.
Call-to-Actions (CTAs)
Use clear, action-oriented prompts like "Shop Now" or "Link in Bio."
Make the CTA prominent and easy to follow.
Trust
Be authentic and transparent to build credibility.
When creating videos, focus on talking to one specific person, not an audience
Answer comments like everyone is your best friend
Targeting
Use the same language and mannerisms of your target audience
Find relevant topics in your target demographic and tackle relevant topics while they're "hot"
Use hashtags, relatable content, and Ads to reach the right people.
Funnel
Create a clear path for viewers to convert (from video to landing page to purchase).
Usually saying "Search XYZ on App Store" works really well
Focus on maintaining a 0,2% to 0,8% impression to download ratio
If you focus on good storytelling (e.g., problem-solution frameworks), high-quality visuals, and clear messaging, you WILL go viral.
Step 5: Account Management
Find Pre-Validated Ideas
Use your account to build an idea bank. Engage for ~45min every day.
This is crucial for a couple reasons:
You'll prevent shadowbans and get your account targeting the right niche
You'll find viral content in your niche/other niches to recreate.
Answer Comments & Speak Like Your Customers
Your messaging needs to resonate with the people who will buy the product.
Study their language and mannerisms.
Answer all comments and treat everyone like your best friend.
Bonus Section: Creator Search Insights
Imagine having a glimpse into what people everywhere are curious about right now.
TikTokâs search insights give you exactly thatâa way to see whatâs trending and most important whatâs in high demand but hard to find.
Here's why this is a gold mine.
Understand user pain points: Discover what problems people are trying to solve that your app can fix.
Spot opportunities for viral content: Identify trending topics that align with your app and create TikToks around them.
Test demand in real time: Use search trends to gauge interest in features your app offers or plans to launch.
Precise messaging: Create content that mirrors the exact words or phrases users are searching for.
What Can You Learn From TikTok Insights?
Letâs say youâre promoting a fitness app. You might find:
People searching for âquick home workoutsâ â Create a series showing 10-minute routines they can track in your app.
Questions like âhow to stay consistent with fitnessâ â Post relatable content about struggles with consistency and how your app solves them.
Trending searches like âmeal prep ideasâ â Show how your app helps meal planning.
Youâre speaking directly to the needs and language of your potential users.
How to Use Insights to Promote Your App
Create Content That Fills âContent Gapsâ The âcontent gapâ tab highlights what people are looking for but not finding. For example: If your productivity app helps with task organization, and users are searching for âhow to stop procrastinating,â create content showing how your app makes staying on track easy. If searches for âbudgeting tipsâ are trending, post short videos on how your app automates budgeting.
Tap Into Trends Early If searches for âstudy tipsâ are spiking, and your app helps with focus or note-taking, ride the wave by showing how it fits into the trend.
Use Real Searches to Refine Your Content Strategy For example: A language-learning app could post daily TikToks answering âhow to learn Spanish fast.â A wellness app might share â5 ways to manage stress at workâ. You need to align your content with trending searches. You'll create a direct link between usersâ needs and your appâs value.
This is what you can expect with organic:
â Gain 1,000s of new paid users every month
â Better SEO / ASO rankings
â Gain 1,000s of new followers and Millions of views every month
â Establish clear authority in an overcrowded market
â 2-5x Increased Traffic volume to your website / App every month
So Now What?
Option 1: Do Nothing
Continuing reading and learning but not take action.
This only leads to one result: No progress and success.
Option 2: You Can Do It Yourself
You can try to implement everything you just learned by yourself.
This might take you a long time to figure out. Or not.
The risk is losing the distribution edge of the platform as of TODAY.
Even if you manage to do it, your team will still spend all day dealing with creator issues, quality control and coordinating 20+ people.
Option 3: A DFY Package
The last option is we can do this all for you.
You don't get to go through the mistakes and headaches we made.
It will be Done-For-You so you don't need to worry about doing anything besides dealing with all the new sign-up volume.
â Completely wipe out your competition.
â You get to shortcut your way to virality.
â You will get to build your Software and establish yourself as an authority.
â You'll have 3+ reliable acquisition channels.
Our team:
â Builds a bulletproof creative approach.
â Distributes all your content at an unbelievable volume.
â Creates your content machine that helps you scale
If you're looking to get millions of organic views and thousands of new users in less than 90 daysâŚ