What is the 90 day retention rule?

Imagine hiring someone new at your company. You want them to stick around, right? That’s where the 90 day retention rule comes into play. It’s not just about apps; it’s a big deal in the world of work too.

Understanding the 90 Day Retention Rule

The 90 day retention rule suggests that if you can keep an employee or a user engaged for the first 90 days, they’re more likely to stay for the long haul. This rule has roots in HR practices but has found its way into app development and app store optimization strategies.

Why 90 Days?

Three months is a sweet spot. It’s long enough for new hires or app users to get past the initial learning curve and start feeling comfortable, but short enough that the novelty hasn’t worn off. Here’s why this period is critical:

  • First Impressions: The first 90 days set the tone for what users or employees expect moving forward.
  • Engagement: This is when users decide if your app adds value to their daily life or if it’s just another icon on their screen.
  • Feedback Loop: It’s an ideal time to gather feedback, make improvements, and show users or employees that their input matters.

Applying the 90 Day Rule in Apps

When it comes to apps, retention is king. Here’s how you can apply this rule:

Onboarding is Key

Make those first 90 days count with an onboarding process that’s not just informative but engaging. Use tutorials, welcome messages, and initial rewards to make users feel at home.

Regular Updates and Content Refresh

Keep the app dynamic. New features, content, or levels in a game can rekindle interest. Think of it like your favorite TV show dropping new episodes.

Engagement Through Personalization

Use data to tailor the user experience. If your app feels personal, users are more likely to return. This could be through customized notifications or user-specific content.

Support and Feedback

Have a system for users to report issues or give feedback. Quick responses and visible changes based on feedback can significantly boost retention.

The Role of Apple App Store Keyword Research in Retention

While apple app store keyword research primarily helps in discovery, it indirectly aids retention by attracting users who are genuinely interested in what your app offers. If your app meets the expectations set by your keywords, users are more likely to stay.

Using App Store Optimization Tools Free

Tools can help track how well your app retains users after they download it from an app store keywords research result. Adjust your keywords if you notice a drop-off; maybe your app isn’t what searchers expect.

Measuring Success Beyond the 90 Days

After the initial 90 days, keep monitoring:

  • User Activity: How often do they return? What features do they use?
  • In-app Purchases: If your app includes purchases, are users buying?
  • Reviews and Ratings: These can reflect long-term satisfaction.

Conclusion

The 90 day retention rule isn’t just a number; it’s a strategy for ensuring that what starts with a download or a hire turns into a long-term relationship. For apps, this means crafting an experience that’s engaging, responsive, and continuously evolving. By focusing on this critical period, you enhance your chances of turning fleeting users into loyal fans, optimizing not just for aso traffic but for sustained app success.