Since you’ve been away from social media marketing for a few years, focus on the power of short-form video and viral loops rather than old-school tactics. Here is a quick, organic roadmap for your friend’s platform:
1. Best Platforms to Use
- TikTok & YouTube Shorts: Must-haves. Your content is memes and videos, so you need the high organic reach that vertical short-form videos offer.
- Threads & Instagram Reels: Threads is highly relevant right now. It has a high synergy with text/image memes, and you can easily cross-promote content with IG Reels.
2. Smart Affiliate & Referral System
Instead of paying for ads, pay your users. Set up a referral program where creators get a small kickback (cash or in-app perks) for bringing in active new users who actually post content.
3. Run "Interactive" Contests
Traditional "Follow & RT" giveaways only bring bot traffic. Instead, host a Meme/Video Creation Contest.
- Have them create content on your new platform.
- Require them to share it on their own TikTok/Threads with their unique referral link.
- Reward the most creative ones or those that get the highest engagement. This turns participants into your biggest promoters.
Next Step: Pick 5–10 micro-influencers or passionate amateur creators to give early access to. Build some initial buzz before launching the full referral/contest strategy!