Feedback and ideas to get first customers
Hi all, I'm fairly new to IH and hope to learn but also contribute when I can help.
I'd like to test a theory I have that photographers could benefit from an emoji URL shortener. Most URL shorteners are extremely generic (bitly.com) or if they are emoji they make no sense (🍕💩.ws)
But with the 📷 emoji I could shorten MichaelMontgomeryPhotography.com to 📷.ws/mm
This is my first company of this type, having previously sold physical goods in the men's fashion industry, so I'm a little unsure of the best practices to drive awareness so I can validate without wasting time and cash.
How would this community think about this problem?
Thanks
Are you a photographer or have photographer friends?
I don't know how much the single-emoji domain costs, but you could take pre-orders on redirects ( 📷.ws/username => full url) and see if you can make enough sales to warrant purchasing the domain.
Hi hsribei,
Thanks for commenting. I missed these replies.
I am not a photographer although do know a few through my sister (she is one) and from my previous industry (fashion) where I made a few useful connections.
I own the domain anyway because I think emoji domains have marketing potential. Whether I can build a business on one is another matter.
John
This comment was deleted 7 years ago
Hi Thomas,
Thanks for taking the time to give me your feedback. I actually didn't realise anyone had replied.
The idea was to be more meaningful compared to other link shorteners. So, a bit.ly or other emoji URL link doesn't call specifically to a photographer whereas the camera emoji might, especially when the user can customise the ending.
I don't think the emoji URL would replace the regular domain. I think it would be used online though to link to it in a more fun and engaging way. There are some stats to suggest that email subject lines and push notifications get better CTR when emoji is added. I feel the same might apply to the link when it has emoji in it. Just a guess at this point though.
You're right about the rendering of the emoji. Its early days for it to be seamless and seeing the punycode (📷.ws) may well be off putting for some. I'm working on the assumption that in time these issues will improve albeit to the detriment of my business' growth.
Thanks for making me think about things. It is appreciated.
John