Foreshare Access Framework

A growth strategy called "foreshare" that requires users to share on social media to unlock features, focusing on immediate rewards rather than delayed gratification.

Core Concept of Foreshare

• Replace traditional paywall with a "sharewall"
• Users must share on social media to access full product features
• Provides instant gratification instead of delayed rewards
• Initially met with skepticism from advisors but proved successful

Implementation Strategy

• Wait until users experience product value
• For Unroll.me: Asked after users unsubscribed from 5 newsletters
• Achieved 90% share rate at launch
• Optimized share button design to prioritize Facebook
• Increased Facebook sharing from 50% to 80% of users

Platform Performance

• Facebook
  • 100 shares = 80-150 new users
  • Most effective platform for viral growth
• Twitter
  • 100 shares = 1 new user
  • Significantly lower conversion rate

Key Success Factors

1. Find the right social incentive

   • Free products: Unlock features
   • Paid products: Immediate discounts
   • Instant rewards over delayed gratification

2. Timing is crucial

   • Wait until users trust the product
   • Identify the "magic moment" when users see value
   • Ask for shares after demonstrating product effectiveness

3. Platform selection

   • Focus on highest converting platforms
   • Adapt to changing platform dynamics
   • Consider alternatives like WhatsApp, Messenger, text messages

Modern Applications

• Look beyond Facebook due to algorithm changes
• Consider alternative sharing channels
• Focus on instant rewards over delayed benefits
• Test and measure user response
• Prioritize user trust before requesting shares