4 traction channels that actually work for early-stage startups

Learning goal

Getting traction is one of the hardest parts of building a startup.

Not because tools are missing, but because it’s easy to waste time on the wrong channels.

Instead of trying to be everywhere, focus on one or two traction channels that match your product, audience, and stage.
That’s how you grow faster, with less effort.

Why it matters

1. Direct outreach
   Best for: B2B startups, service businesses, trust-driven ideas

Message potential users directly via LinkedIn, email, or even text.

Start with:

• A clear value prop

• A short, personal message (no mass blasts)

• A specific ask (like: “can I show you a quick prototype?”)

This works because it’s personal, fast, and doesn’t need a website.

2. Community marketing
   Best for: niche products, student projects, passion-driven ideas

Go where your users already are—Facebook groups, Discord servers, Reddit threads, or forums.

Don’t pitch right away. Instead:

• Answer questions

• Share tips

• Offer help for free

Then naturally mention what you’re building.
If people trust you, they’ll be curious.

3. Content marketing (keep it simple)
   Best for: founders who can teach, explain, or share stories

You don’t need to go viral. You just need to be helpful.

Start with:

• A short LinkedIn or Facebook post

• A blog or Medium article

• A real before-and-after story

Show that you understand your users' problems.
That’s what builds trust.

4. Referral loops
   Best for: products with word-of-mouth potential

Encourage your early users to invite others. Give them a reason to share:

• A referral discount

• A bonus for each invite

• Even just a personal thank-you

Make sharing easy. Small gestures go a long way

Quick checklist

• Picked 1 to 2 traction channels to test

• Active in spaces where users already hang out

• Sharing content that helps, not just sells

• Giving users ways to refer others

• Tracking real engagement, not just likes

What to do next / StellarPH tip

Don’t try to master everything.

Pick one channel. Test it for 2 to 4 weeks. Learn. Adjust.

Traction isn’t luck.
It’s about choosing the right moves at the right time.