Increase user acquisition through viral loops and social incentives
Overview
Business Outcome
Lower Customer Acquistion Cost
By leveraging viral loops and social incentives, Dropbox can acquire new users at a lower cost compared to traditional marketing methods. The referral program also helps retain existing users by providing them with additional value for their referrals.
Behavioral Outcome
Feeling of Reciprocity
Users feel they recevied something of value in exchange for spreading the word about Dropbox.
The Behavioral Science
Reciprocity
People feel obligated to reciprocate when they receive something of value. By offering rewards to both the referrer and the new user, Dropbox creates a sense of obligation that encourages users to refer others.
Social Proof
People are more likely to adopt a behavior if they see others doing it. By seeing friends or colleagues using Dropbox, potential users perceive the platform as more trustworthy and valuable.
Network Effect
The value of a product or service increases as more people use it. As Dropbox's user base grows through referrals, the platform becomes more valuable for all users, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of growth.
How It Works
Dropbox's referral program, as shown in the screenshot, offers users the opportunity to earn additional storage space by referring friends.
When a user submits their email address, they receive a unique referral link. If a friend signs up using that link, both the referrer and the new user receive extra storage space.
This incentive structure leverages the principles of social proof, reciprocity, and network effects to drive viral growth. Furthermore, the process of sharing with friends is frictionless.
How It Might Backfire
User Experience Degradation
If the referral prompts become too intrusive or disruptive, users may become frustrated, leading to disengagement or abandonment of the platform.
Incentive Abuse
Some users may exploit the referral program solely for the rewards, resulting in low-quality sign-ups or users who quickly churn after receiving their incentives.
How To Test
A/B Testing
Implement different variations of the referral program, such as varying incentive structures or messaging, and measure their impact on referral conversion rates and user engagement.
User Feedback Surveys
Gather qualitative feedback from users to understand their perceptions of the referral program and identify areas for improvement.
Cohort Analysis
Analyze the behavior and retention of users acquired through referrals compared to those acquired through other channels to assess the long-term value of the referral program
Frequently Asked Questions
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