The Ultimate Website Launch Checklist (Live Site Checks)

The industry-standard guide for your website launch — with sanity, trust, SEO, and traffic-building checklists.

As the founder of WebsiteLaunches.com, I analyze thousands of newly launched websites and see the same patterns repeat — what works, what doesn't, and the common issues that hurt traction after launch.

This checklist is built for real websites run by real people — local businesses, solo founders, professional services, personal sites, and e-commerce sites. It's based on patterns observed across thousands of real launches.

You don't need to do everything on this page. Most launches win by getting the Sanity, Trust, and basic SEO checklists right, then going deep on one or two traffic channels. Each section includes automated checks to help surface issues quickly.

I've broken this checklist guide into four sections:

1. Sanity Checklist

I know you don't want to do these basic checks, but most new sites actually fail them. Don't skip them — I've automated everything except one quick manual check, and the full scan finishes in about a minute.

2. Trust Checklist

This is where many sites fail. There are a few very simple things you can do to build trust with people visiting your site — mainly an honest, open About page (or similar) that shows you or your team, active social profiles, and an easy way for people to get in touch.

3. SEO Checklist

This section is dedicated to basic SEO — getting your site to show up on Google. It's critical that you get it right, and it's a bit more nuanced than the sanity checks above.

Final SEO Steps

Without these steps, search engines won't know your site exists. Submit your sitemap to get indexed.

No sitemap detected. Use a free generator like XML-Sitemaps.com to create one.

• Google Search Console – Verify domain, submit sitemap
  Open Google Search Console
• Bing Webmaster Tools – Also indexes ChatGPT/AI search
  Open Bing Webmaster Tools

4. Traffic Driving Checklist

Here's a fairly robust list of the most effective ways to drive traffic and customers to your site. The first three sections — Before You Start, Social Shares, and Content — are things most website launches should prioritize. The remaining sections are more specific to certain types of websites, so focus on the areas that are most relevant to you.

Before You Start

• Install Google Analytics (GA4) Before driving traffic, you need to know if it's working. Set up analytics first so you can measure everything that follows. If you prefer privacy-friendly analytics, consider Plausible, Fathom, or Simple Analytics instead.
  Set Up GA4

Social Shares

• Post on LinkedIn Share your launch story with your professional network. Personal stories about why you built it perform best.

  Expert Tips

  • Create a Company Page first if you're launching a business, then post from it. Personal posts often get more reach, but company pages build long-term brand presence.
  • Best format: Text-only posts with line breaks perform well. Start with a hook, tell the story, end with a call to action.
  • Timing: Tuesday-Thursday, 8-10am or 12pm in your target audience's timezone.
  • Engage immediately: Reply to every comment in the first 2 hours to boost the algorithm.
  • Tag relevant people (co-founders, early users, mentors) but don't spam-tag influencers who don't know you.
  Create Company Page
• Announce on Twitter/X Tweet about your launch with a compelling hook. Include a screenshot or video if possible.

  Expert Tips

  • Personal vs brand account: Post from your personal account AND a brand account if you have one. Personal accounts typically get 3-5x more engagement for launches.
  • Thread format works well: First tweet = hook + screenshot. Following tweets = the story, features, what you learned.
  • Hashtags: Use 1-2 relevant hashtags max. #buildinpublic and #indiehackers are good for tech launches.
  • Best times: 9am-12pm on weekdays. Avoid weekends for B2B.
  • Visuals are key: Tweets with images get 150% more retweets. GIFs and short videos perform even better.
  • Reply to everyone: The algorithm heavily favors posts with active conversations.
  Post on X
• Share on Facebook Post on your profile, your business page, and in relevant Facebook groups.

  Expert Tips

  • Create a Business Page for your product/company. It looks more professional and lets you run ads later.
  • Groups are gold: Find 5-10 Facebook groups in your niche. Join them, participate genuinely for a few days, then share your launch. Don't spam-post to 50 groups.
  • Personal profile still matters: Your friends and family network can provide early traction and social proof.
  • Native video: Upload videos directly to Facebook (don't just share YouTube links) for 10x more reach.
  • Best times: 1-4pm on weekdays, with Wednesday being the best day.
  Create Business Page
• Post on Reddit Try r/SideProject (515k+ members) or subreddits relevant to your niche. Be genuine, not salesy.

  Expert Tips

  • Reddit hates self-promotion. Frame your post as asking for feedback, sharing what you learned, or helping others — not "check out my product!"
  • Account age matters: New accounts get filtered. If your account is new, participate genuinely in discussions for a week first.
  • Best subreddits for launches: r/SideProject, r/InternetIsBeautiful (if it's cool), r/webdev (if technical), r/Entrepreneur, niche subreddits for your industry.
  • Read the rules: Every subreddit has different rules. Some have specific days for self-promotion. Getting banned hurts.
  • Respond to every comment: Redditors appreciate founders who engage. This also keeps your post visible longer.
  • Best times: Sunday evening or Monday morning (US time) when people are browsing.
  Post to r/SideProject
• Post on Instagram Essential for visual brands, food, fashion, lifestyle. Share your work and behind-the-scenes content.

  Expert Tips

  • Switch to a Business account (Settings → Account → Switch to Professional). You get analytics and can add contact buttons.
  • Reels get 2x the reach of static posts. Even a simple 15-second video of your product works.
  • Stories for engagement: Use polls, questions, and behind-the-scenes content. Stories feel more personal and get good engagement.
  • Hashtags: Use 5-10 relevant hashtags. Mix popular ones (#startup) with niche ones (#indiemaker). Put them in the caption or first comment.
  • Best times: 11am-1pm and 7-9pm. Wednesday and Friday tend to perform best.
  • Bio link: Your bio is the only clickable link. Use it wisely or use a link-in-bio tool.
  Open Instagram
• Set up Pinterest Business Visual Great for food, DIY, fashion, home decor, and visual content. Pinterest drives long-term traffic through evergreen pins.

  Expert Tips

  • Pinterest is a search engine, not social media. Optimize pins for keywords people search for. This is SEO, not networking.
  • Evergreen content wins: Pins can drive traffic for years. Unlike Twitter or Instagram, old pins keep getting discovered.
  • Vertical images perform best: 2:3 ratio (1000x1500px). Use text overlays to explain what the pin is about.
  • Rich Pins: Enable them to pull metadata from your site (price, availability, recipe info). They get better engagement.
  • Pin consistently: 5-10 pins per day is better than 50 pins once a week. Use a scheduler like Tailwind.
  • Best niches: Home decor, recipes, DIY, fashion, weddings, travel. If your site is B2B software, Pinterest probably isn't your channel.
  Get Started

Content & Email

Build your audience and create content that drives organic traffic.

• Set up email collection Start building your email list from day one. Your email list is an owned audience you can reach directly. Use Mailchimp, ConvertKit, Buttondown, or any email service. Add a signup form to your site.

  Expert Tips

  • Offer something valuable in exchange. "Get our free guide" converts 3-5x better than "Subscribe to our newsletter."
  • Place forms strategically: Header/nav, end of blog posts, exit-intent popup, and a dedicated landing page. Multiple touchpoints matter.
  • Keep forms simple: Email only for maximum conversions. You can ask for name later. Every field reduces signups.
  • Set expectations: "Weekly tips" or "Monthly updates" — tell people what they're signing up for and stick to it.
  • Send a welcome email immediately: Introduce yourself, deliver any promised lead magnet, and set the tone for future emails.
  • Quality over quantity: 100 engaged subscribers beats 10,000 who never open. Focus on attracting the right people.
  • Don't buy lists: Purchased lists have terrible engagement and can get you blacklisted by email providers.
• Write a launch blog post Share your journey, the problem you're solving, and your vision. Authentic stories resonate and rank well in search.
• Write a Medium article Huge built-in audience. Write about your niche and link back to your site.

  Expert Tips

  • Submit to publications. Publications have built-in audiences. Find ones in your niche and pitch your article to their editors.
  • Headlines are everything: Spend time on your headline. "How I Built X" and "What I Learned From Y" formats perform well.
  • First 150 characters matter: Medium shows a preview. Make it compelling enough to click through.
  • Use subheadings liberally: Break up text every 3-4 paragraphs. Readers skim before they commit to reading.
  • Include images: Articles with images perform better. Screenshots, diagrams, or relevant photos break up text.
  • Link strategically: One or two links to your site is fine. Too many feels spammy and hurts distribution.
  • Consider the Partner Program: If your content is good, you can earn money while building audience. But paywall limits reach.
  • Republish from your blog: Use Medium's import tool to set canonical URL to your site. You get reach without SEO penalty.
  Write Article

Local Business Local

Essential for businesses with a physical location or local service area.

• Claim Google Business Profile Appear in Google Maps and local search results. Critical for local SEO and customer discovery.

  Expert Tips

  • This is non-negotiable for local businesses. If you have a physical location or serve a local area, you need this. Period.
  • Complete every field: Hours, services, photos, description, attributes. Google ranks complete profiles higher.
  • Photos matter: Businesses with photos get 42% more direction requests. Upload at least 10 quality photos of your location, products, team.
  • Get reviews early: Ask your first customers to leave honest reviews. Respond to every review, positive or negative.
  • Post regularly: Google Business has a Posts feature. Use it weekly for updates, offers, or events.
  • Categories matter: Choose your primary category carefully. You can add secondary categories too.
  Claim Profile
• Claim your Yelp listing Customers search Yelp for local services. Claim and optimize your business listing.

  Expert Tips

  • Respond to every review — especially negatives. A professional, empathetic response can turn a 1-star into a customer advocate.
  • Never ask for Yelp reviews directly: Yelp penalizes this. Instead, provide great service and let reviews happen naturally.
  • Photos increase engagement 2x: Add high-quality photos of your space, products, team, and work. Update regularly.
  • Complete your profile 100%: Hours, services, specialties, history. Complete profiles rank higher and convert better.
  • Use Yelp Deals and Check-in Offers: Free tools to incentivize visits. "Check in on Yelp, get 10% off" drives engagement.
  • Monitor competitors: See what reviewers praise (and complain about) at similar businesses. Learn from their feedback.
  • Don't panic over filtered reviews: Yelp's algorithm filters some reviews. Focus on building a pattern of genuine positive experiences.
  Claim on Yelp
• Create Nextdoor Business Page Neighborhood-focused social network. Great for connecting with nearby customers.
  Create Page
• Create Thumbtack profile Service Provider Get matched with customers looking for your services. Great for contractors, cleaners, photographers, etc.
  Join Thumbtack
• Create Angi (Angie's List) profile Service Provider Home services marketplace. Homeowners search for trusted contractors here.
  Join Angi
• Join HomeAdvisor Service Provider Home improvement leads platform. Now part of Angi network.
  Join HomeAdvisor

Food & Restaurant Food

Essential platforms for restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and food businesses.

• Join DoorDash or UberEats Get your restaurant on delivery apps. Essential for reaching customers who order food online.

  Expert Tips

  • Photos sell food. Invest in professional food photography for your menu items. Listings with photos get 30%+ more orders.
  • Optimize your menu for delivery: Some dishes don't travel well. Focus on items that arrive looking and tasting great.
  • Pricing strategy matters: Many restaurants add 15-20% to delivery prices to offset commission fees. Be transparent or absorb the cost.
  • Prep and packaging: Invest in good containers. Soggy fries and spilled sauces lead to bad reviews.
  • Accept orders quickly: Fast acceptance times improve your ranking in the app. Enable auto-accept during peak hours.
  • Run promotions strategically: First-time customer discounts and free delivery promos can boost visibility but watch your margins.
  • Monitor reviews religiously: Respond to every negative review. Offer to make it right. One bad review hurts more than one good review helps.
  • Consider multiple platforms: DoorDash, UberEats, Grubhub — different customers use different apps. Diversify where possible.
  Sign Up
• List on OpenTable Restaurant reservation platform. Diners discover and book restaurants here.
  Get Listed
• Apply to sell on Goldbelly Specialty Ship your famous dishes nationwide. Great for restaurants with signature items or specialty foods.
  Apply
• Submit to specialty food directories Specialty Industry directories for artisan, organic, or specialty food producers.
  Learn More
• Post food content on Instagram Food is huge on Instagram. Post appetizing photos, behind-the-scenes kitchen content, and engage with local foodies.
  Open Instagram
• Post to r/FoodPorn 5M+ members who love beautiful food photos. Share your best dishes with high-quality images.
  Visit
• Engage on r/Cooking 3M+ home cooks. Share recipes, tips, and engage genuinely with the community.
  Visit

Health, Wellness & Beauty Health

Platforms for healthcare providers, wellness businesses, and beauty professionals.

• Join Zocdoc Medical Patients find and book doctors here. Essential for medical practices accepting new patients.
  Join
• Claim Healthgrades profile Medical Major healthcare provider directory. Patients check ratings before choosing doctors.
  Claim
• Create RealSelf profile Aesthetic Platform for cosmetic and aesthetic procedures. Patients research procedures and find providers.
  Join
• Partner with ClassPass Fitness Fitness class marketplace. Fill empty spots and reach new customers trying different studios.
  Partner
• List on Mindbody Wellness Booking platform for fitness, wellness, and beauty. Consumers discover and book services.
  Get Listed
• List on StyleSeat Beauty Booking platform for hair stylists and beauty professionals. Clients discover and book appointments.
  Join
• Join Booksy Beauty Salon and barbershop booking app. Popular with clients looking for beauty services.
  Join

Real Estate & Home Real Estate

Platforms for real estate agents, property managers, and home service businesses.

• Create Zillow Premier Agent profile Agent Zillow is where buyers start their home search. Essential for real estate agents.
  Sign Up
• Claim Realtor.com profile Agent Official site of the National Association of Realtors. Claim your professional profile.
  Claim
• Create Houzz Pro profile Home Design Platform for home design and renovation. Great for architects, designers, and contractors.
  Join
• List on LoopNet Commercial Commercial real estate marketplace. Essential for CRE brokers and property owners.
  List Property
• List on Apartments.com Rentals Major rental listing site. Property managers list available units here.
  Advertise
• Engage on r/RealEstate 700k+ members discussing real estate. Share expertise and build credibility.
  Visit

Travel & Hospitality Travel

Platforms for hotels, vacation rentals, tour operators, and travel businesses.

• Claim TripAdvisor listing World's largest travel platform. Essential for hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

  Expert Tips

  • Respond to every review. Especially negative ones. A thoughtful response shows future guests you care and often neutralizes bad reviews.
  • Photos drive bookings: Upload 20+ high-quality photos. Professional shots of rooms, amenities, food, and surroundings. Update seasonally.
  • Complete every detail: Hours, amenities, languages spoken, payment methods. Complete listings rank higher in search.
  • Ask for reviews at the right moment: When guests are happiest (checkout, after a great meal). Use TripAdvisor's free review collection tools.
  • Monitor your ranking: Track your position vs competitors. Small improvements in rating can mean big jumps in visibility.
  • Don't fake reviews: TripAdvisor's fraud detection is sophisticated. Fake reviews can get you penalized or delisted.
  • Use Management Response templates: Create templates for common situations, but personalize each response.
  Claim
• List on Airbnb Vacation Rental Short-term rental marketplace. List your property for travelers.

  Expert Tips

  • First photo is everything. Hire a photographer or use a wide-angle lens. Bright, airy shots with natural light dramatically increase bookings.
  • Title formula that works: "[Unique feature] + [Location/View] + [Property type]" e.g., "Cozy Loft with Mountain Views, Walk to Downtown"
  • Price low initially: New listings need reviews. Price 10-20% below market to get your first 5-10 bookings, then raise prices.
  • Instant Book increases visibility: Airbnb's algorithm favors Instant Book listings. Enable it once you're comfortable.
  • Response time matters: Reply within an hour if possible. Response rate and speed affect your search ranking.
  • Stock the essentials: Coffee, toiletries, phone chargers, local restaurant recommendations. Small touches lead to 5-star reviews.
  • Superhost status is worth pursuing: It takes work but Superhosts get better placement and a trust badge that converts.
  Become a Host
• List on VRBO Vacation Rental Vacation rental platform focused on whole-home rentals. Popular with families.
  List Property
• List on Booking.com Global hotel and accommodation platform. Huge international audience.
  Partner
• List tours on Viator Tours TripAdvisor's tour and activity platform. List your tours, experiences, and activities.
  List
• List on GetYourGuide Tours Tours and activities marketplace. Popular in Europe and growing globally.
  List
• Engage on r/travel 8M+ travelers sharing tips and experiences. Build credibility by helping travelers.
  Visit

Startup & Developer Communities Tech/SaaS

Launch platforms and communities for tech products, SaaS, and developer tools.

• Launch on Product Hunt Schedule your launch for midnight PST. Prepare screenshots, tagline, and first comment ahead of time.

  Expert Tips

  • Preparation is everything. Have your tagline, description, 4+ screenshots, thumbnail, and first comment written before you launch.
  • Find a hunter with followers if possible. Being hunted by someone with an audience gives you a head start.
  • Launch at 12:01am PST. This gives you the full 24-hour window to collect upvotes.
  • Your first comment matters: Write a personal "maker comment" explaining why you built it, what problem it solves, and what feedback you want.
  • Don't ask for upvotes directly. It's against the rules and can get you penalized. Instead, share your launch and let people decide.
  • Be present all day: Respond to every comment quickly. Engagement boosts your ranking.
  • Avoid Mondays and big launch days: Tuesdays and Wednesdays have less competition.
  Submit to PH
• Write a Dev.to launch post Technical audience loves build logs. Share your tech stack, architecture decisions, and lessons learned.

  Expert Tips

  • Technical depth wins. Dev.to readers are developers. Share code snippets, architecture diagrams, and real technical decisions.
  • Use relevant tags: Choose 4 tags carefully (e.g., #webdev, #javascript, #showdev, #opensource). Tags determine who sees your post.
  • #showdev tag is perfect for launches: It's specifically for sharing projects you've built. The community is supportive.
  • Format for readability: Use headers, code blocks, and bullet points. Long walls of text don't perform well.
  • Include a cover image: Posts with cover images get significantly more clicks. Use a screenshot or custom graphic.
  • Cross-post from your blog: Dev.to supports canonical URLs. Write on your blog, cross-post to Dev.to for reach without SEO penalty.
  • Engage in comments: Dev.to has a great community. Answer questions, thank people for feedback, and be genuinely helpful.
  Write Post
• Submit to SaaSHub Software discovery platform. Get listed among alternatives to popular tools in your category.
  Submit
• Post on Indie Hackers Share your launch story and revenue goals. The community loves transparency and building in public.

  Expert Tips

  • Transparency wins. Share real numbers — revenue, users, costs. The community respects honesty over hype.
  • Tell the journey, not just the product: How did you come up with the idea? What did you learn? What almost killed the project?
  • Create a product page: Add your product to the IH directory. It's free exposure and helps with discovery.
  • Engage in groups: Join relevant groups (SaaS, No-Code, etc.) and participate genuinely before promoting.
  • Reply to comments quickly: Active threads get more visibility. Be helpful and answer questions thoroughly.
  • Follow up with milestones: Post updates when you hit $100 MRR, $1k MRR, etc. The community loves following along.
  Post
• Submit to Hacker News (Show HN) Use "Show HN:" prefix. Best times: 8-10am EST weekdays. Can drive massive traffic if it hits front page.

  Expert Tips

  • Title format: "Show HN: [Your product] - [one-line description]". Keep it factual, not hypey.
  • HN hates marketing speak. No "revolutionary" or "game-changing." Just describe what it does simply.
  • Have something to show: Show HN is for sharing things you've built. Have a working demo or product ready.
  • Best times: 8-10am EST on weekdays. Avoid weekends when there's less traffic.
  • Be ready for brutal feedback: HN comments can be harsh but often insightful. Take criticism constructively.
  • Respond thoughtfully: Your comments build karma and visibility. Engage genuinely with questions.
  • One shot per month: Don't spam submissions. If it doesn't take off, wait and try again later with improvements.
  Submit
• Submit to BetaList Good for beta/early-stage products. Takes 1-2 weeks for approval but drives quality traffic from early adopters.

  Expert Tips

  • Submit early, before you're "ready." BetaList is for beta products. Don't wait until you're polished — that defeats the purpose.
  • Approval takes 1-2 weeks: Plan accordingly. Submit before your planned launch date so it goes live at the right time.
  • Screenshots matter: Clean, high-quality screenshots of your product in action. Show the actual UI, not just marketing graphics.
  • Tagline should be clear: What does it do? Who is it for? Skip the jargon. "Task management for remote teams" beats "Revolutionary productivity paradigm."
  • Have a landing page ready: With email capture. BetaList traffic is high-intent early adopters — capture them.
  • Premium listing ($129) gets featured: If timing matters, the paid option gets you to the front of the queue and featured placement.
  • Engage with commenters: Early adopters leave feedback. Respond quickly and thoughtfully — these could be your first power users.
  Submit
• Submit to AlternativeTo Users search for alternatives to popular software. Great for discovery if you compete with known tools.
  Submit
• Share on r/webdev 2M+ developers. Share your portfolio or personal project. Great for feedback and visibility.
  Post to Reddit
• Post to r/SaaS 50k+ members focused on SaaS businesses. Share your launch, tech stack, or growth strategy.
  Post to Reddit
• Optimize your GitHub profile A polished profile with a good README, pinned repos, and contributions. Essential for developers.

  Expert Tips

  • Create a profile README. Make a repo named exactly like your username. The README.md becomes your profile page. Add a bio, skills, and current projects.
  • Pin your best 6 repos: Showcase your strongest work. Include a mix of personal projects, contributions, and anything with stars.
  • Write great repo READMEs: Every pinned repo should explain what it does, how to install it, and include screenshots or demos. First impressions matter.
  • Green squares matter (somewhat): Consistent contribution activity shows you're an active developer. But quality > quantity.
  • Add a professional photo and bio: Include your location, current role, and link to your website. Recruiters and collaborators check profiles.
  • Contribute to open source: Even small PRs to popular repos boost credibility. Fix typos, improve docs, or solve beginner-friendly issues.
  • Use GitHub Actions and features: Repos with CI/CD, good issue templates, and project boards look professional and maintained.
  • Star and follow strategically: Engage with projects in your niche. The community notices active participants.
  Edit Profile

Creative Portfolios Creative

Showcase your work on design and creative communities.

• Create a Behance project Adobe creative community. Great for designers, photographers, and creative portfolios.

  Expert Tips

  • First image is your hook. Use a striking hero image that makes people want to click. This appears in search results and feeds.
  • Tell the story of the project: Include the brief, your process, iterations, and final result. Process shots are as valuable as finals.
  • Use multiple images: 10-20 images per project performs best. Show details, mockups, and context shots.
  • Choose tags strategically: Pick relevant creative fields and tools used. This affects discoverability.
  • Add to Adobe Portfolio: Behance integrates with Adobe Portfolio for a free hosted portfolio site with your own domain.
  • Engage with the community: Appreciate other work, follow creators in your niche. Behance rewards active community members with visibility.
  • Link to your actual site: Include your website URL in the project and profile. Drive traffic back to your main portfolio.
  Create Project
• Post a Dribbble shot Designer community. Showcase your best work with a polished screenshot.

  Expert Tips

  • Visual polish is everything. Dribbble is highly curated. Only post your absolute best work, not works-in-progress.
  • 800x600 is the standard: Design your shots specifically for this format. How it looks at thumbnail size matters most.
  • Attach full project as attachment: Use the attachment feature to show the complete design while keeping the shot clean.
  • Post consistently: 2-3 shots per week keeps you visible. Sporadic posting doesn't build followers.
  • Use tags wisely: "UI Design," "Mobile App," "Branding" — pick relevant tags to show up in searches.
  • Pro membership unlocks features: Job board access, advanced analytics, and unlimited projects. Worth it if you're freelancing.
  • Engage genuinely: Like and comment on others' work. The Dribbble community notices and reciprocates.
  • Link your portfolio: Every shot can link to your website. Use it to drive traffic to full case studies.
  Post Shot
• Open an Etsy shop Handmade Marketplace for handmade, vintage, and creative goods. Perfect for artists and crafters.

  Expert Tips

  • SEO is everything on Etsy. Use all 13 tags per listing. Research what buyers actually search for, not what you'd call it.
  • First photo sells the click: Use a clean, well-lit photo on white or lifestyle background. Show the product clearly.
  • Titles should front-load keywords: "Handmade Leather Wallet, Minimalist Bifold..." not "The Perfect Gift for Him."
  • Aim for 100+ listings: More listings = more chances to be found. Successful shops often have hundreds of items.
  • Price for profit: Factor in Etsy's fees (transaction, payment processing, offsite ads). Many sellers undercharge.
  • Reviews are currency: Follow up with buyers, include a thank you note, and gently encourage reviews. Shops with more reviews rank higher.
  • Use Etsy Ads strategically: Start small ($1-5/day), find what converts, then scale winners.
  Open Shop
• List on Saatchi Art Fine Art Online gallery for original artwork. Sell paintings, prints, and sculptures to collectors.
  Join
• Share work on r/Art 23M+ art enthusiasts. Share your work and get feedback from the community.
  Visit

Music & Audio Music

Platforms for musicians, podcasters, and audio creators.

• Claim Spotify for Artists Manage your artist profile, see analytics, and submit music for playlist consideration.

  Expert Tips

  • Claim your profile immediately. Even before you release music. This gives you control over your artist image, bio, and "Artist's Pick" feature.
  • Submit to playlists 7+ days before release: Use Spotify for Artists to pitch unreleased tracks to editorial playlists. Earlier submissions get more consideration.
  • Optimize your profile: Add a compelling bio, high-quality header image, and artist photo. Link your social media. Complete profiles get better placement.
  • Use Canvas: Short looping videos that play on your track. Tracks with Canvas see 5%+ higher streams. Create eye-catching 3-8 second loops.
  • Pre-save campaigns matter: Use tools like Feature.fm or DistroKid's HyperFollow to collect pre-saves. Day-one streams boost algorithmic pickup.
  • Monitor your analytics: See where listeners are, what playlists feature you, and which songs perform best. Use this data to plan tours and marketing.
  • Don't buy streams: Spotify's fraud detection is sophisticated. Fake streams can get your music removed entirely.
  • Release consistently: The algorithm favors active artists. Singles every 4-6 weeks often work better than annual albums.
  Claim
• Build SoundCloud presence Upload tracks, build followers, and connect with other artists. Great for independent musicians.
  Sign Up
• Set up Bandcamp store Sell music and merch directly to fans. Artists keep 80-85% of sales.
  Sign Up
• Share on r/hiphopheads Hip-Hop 2M+ hip-hop fans. Share original music and engage with the community.
  Visit

Video & Photography Visual

Platforms for videographers, photographers, and visual content creators.

• Start a YouTube channel Create video content to grow your audience. Great for tutorials, vlogs, and demos.

  Expert Tips

  • Thumbnails matter more than you think. Custom thumbnails with faces, bold text, and bright colors get 2-3x more clicks. Don't use auto-generated ones.
  • First 30 seconds are critical: Hook viewers immediately. State what they'll learn and why they should keep watching.
  • Optimize titles for search: YouTube is the second largest search engine. Use keywords people actually search for, not clever wordplay.
  • Consistency beats virality: Posting weekly on a schedule builds subscribers faster than sporadic viral attempts.
  • End screens and cards: Add end screens to every video linking to related content. Keep viewers in your ecosystem.
  • Descriptions matter for SEO: Write detailed descriptions with keywords. Include timestamps for longer videos.
  • Engage in comments early: Reply to comments in the first hour. It signals to YouTube that your video is generating discussion.
  Create
• Create Vimeo portfolio Professional video hosting. Preferred by filmmakers and agencies for portfolio work.
  Join
• Create 500px portfolio Photography Photography community and marketplace. Showcase work and license photos.
  Join
• Share on r/photography 5M+ photographers. Share tips, get feedback, and showcase your work.
  Visit
• Engage on r/Filmmakers 800k+ filmmakers sharing work and advice. Great community for video creators.
  Visit

Authors & Publishing Authors

Platforms for writers, authors, and publishers.

• Publish on Amazon KDP Self-publish eBooks and paperbacks. Reach millions of readers on the world's largest book marketplace.

  Expert Tips

  • Cover design is everything. Readers judge books by covers. Hire a professional designer or use tools like Canva with genre-appropriate templates.
  • Keywords and categories matter: You get 7 keywords and 2 categories. Research what successful books in your genre use. This is your discoverability.
  • Price strategically: $2.99-$9.99 gets you 70% royalty. Below $2.99 or above $9.99 drops to 35%. Consider launch pricing at $0.99 for visibility.
  • KDP Select vs. wide distribution: KDP Select (90-day exclusive) gives you Kindle Unlimited access and promotional tools. Going wide (Apple, Kobo, etc.) diversifies but splits focus.
  • Build your series: Series sell. First book can be permafree or $0.99 to hook readers who then buy the rest at full price.
  • Reviews are critical: Ask readers directly. Include a note at the end of the book. 10-20 reviews unlocks Amazon's recommendation algorithms.
  • Use A+ Content: Enhanced product descriptions with images and formatted text. Available once you have a brand registered.
  • Pre-orders build momentum: Set up pre-orders to collect sales before launch, boosting your day-one ranking.
  Publish
• Create Goodreads author profile World's largest book community. Connect with readers and promote your books.

  Expert Tips

  • Claim your author profile. Even if you only have one book. Go to Author Program and claim your name. This links all your books to your profile.
  • Complete your bio and add a photo: Readers want to know who wrote the book. A personal, genuine bio connects better than a formal one.
  • Run Goodreads Giveaways: Give away print or eBook copies to generate buzz. Winners often leave reviews and add your book to their shelves.
  • Join and engage in groups: Find groups in your genre. Participate genuinely — don't just spam your book links. Build relationships first.
  • Don't respond to negative reviews: It never ends well. Thank positive reviewers, ignore negative ones. Readers watch how authors behave.
  • Use the Q&A feature: Answer questions about your books. This engagement is visible on your profile and builds connection.
  • Link from your book's back matter: "Leave a review on Goodreads" in your eBook links directly to your Goodreads page.
  • Add your blog: Goodreads can import your blog posts, keeping your profile active without extra work.
  Join
• Post to r/Blogging 200k+ bloggers sharing tips and strategies. Great for content creators.
  Post
• Engage on r/ebooks Community for eBook readers and authors. Share your work and connect with readers.
  Visit

Online Education Education

Platforms for course creators, tutors, and educators.

• Publish course on Udemy World's largest online course marketplace. Reach students looking for your expertise.

  Expert Tips

  • Course quality requirements are strict. HD video (720p+), clear audio, and 30+ minutes of content minimum. Invest in a decent microphone — bad audio kills courses.
  • Research before you build: Search Udemy for similar courses. Check reviews to see what students complain about. Fill those gaps in your course.
  • Pricing psychology: Udemy runs constant sales ($9.99-$19.99). Price high ($199) so sale prices look like great deals. You control your own promo pricing.
  • Title and thumbnail are crucial: Students browse visually. Use bold, readable text in thumbnails. Titles should include keywords students search for.
  • Get reviews early: Offer free access to friends, colleagues, or your email list in exchange for honest reviews. First 10 reviews heavily impact ranking.
  • Udemy takes up to 75%: When they bring the student. When YOU bring students via your own link, you keep 97%. Build your own audience.
  • Update your course regularly: Courses with recent updates rank higher. Add new lectures, update outdated content, respond to Q&A.
  • Engage in Q&A: Fast, helpful responses lead to better reviews. Students notice when instructors are active.
  Teach
• Teach on Skillshare Creative-focused learning platform. Popular for design, art, and business courses.
  Teach
• Engage on r/OnlineEducation Community for online educators and students. Share courses and teaching tips.
  Visit

Fashion & Retail Fashion

Platforms for fashion brands, boutiques, and resellers.

• List on fashion marketplaces Poshmark, Depop, ThredUp - social marketplaces for fashion. Great for resellers and boutiques.
  Sell
• Enable Instagram Shopping Tag products in posts and stories. Let customers shop directly from your Instagram.
  Set Up
• Create Pinterest fashion boards Fashion is huge on Pinterest. Create boards for outfits, trends, and style inspiration.
  Start
• Engage on fashion subreddits r/femalefashionadvice (2M+), r/malefashionadvice (5M+). Share advice and build credibility.
  Visit

Auto Services Auto

Platforms for auto shops, mechanics, and car dealers.

• Register with Carfax Shop Car history reports recommend Carfax-listed shops. Builds trust with car buyers.
  Register
• Join RepairPal Auto repair shop certification and directory. Customers search for certified shops.
  Join

Collectibles & Gaming Collectibles

Platforms for collectors, game developers, and digital product sellers.

• Open eBay Store Massive marketplace for collectibles, vintage items, and specialty goods.
  Sell
• List on TCGPlayer TCG Marketplace for trading card games. Pokemon, Magic, Yu-Gi-Oh sellers list here.
  Sell
• Sell on Gumroad Digital Sell digital products - eBooks, courses, templates, software. Simple setup, keep 90%+.

  Expert Tips

  • Build an audience first. Gumroad works best when you already have followers on Twitter, YouTube, or an email list. Cold traffic converts poorly.
  • Use "Pay what you want" strategically: Set a minimum price but let people pay more. Many will pay above minimum, increasing average order value.
  • Product thumbnails matter: Your cover image is your storefront. Invest in professional-looking graphics that stand out.
  • Offer tiered pricing: Basic, Pro, and Complete bundles let customers self-select. The middle tier often sells best.
  • Use Gumroad Discover: Opt in to Gumroad's marketplace. They take a larger cut but bring you customers you wouldn't find otherwise.
  • Email your customers: Gumroad has built-in email. Use it to announce updates, new products, and build relationships.
  • Offer free samples: A free chapter, template, or mini-course builds trust and grows your email list for future launches.
  Start Selling
• Share on r/gamedev Games 1M+ game developers. Share your indie game and get feedback.
  Visit

Nonprofit Nonprofit

Platforms and resources specifically for nonprofit organizations.

• Apply for Google Ad Grants Get $10,000/month in free Google Ads. Must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

  Expert Tips

  • Eligibility requirements are strict. You need 501(c)(3) status, a working website with substantial content, and HTTPS. Government entities and hospitals don't qualify.
  • Apply through Google for Nonprofits first: You must be verified on Google for Nonprofits before applying for Ad Grants. This can take 2-14 days.
  • $2 max CPC limit: Ad Grants has a $2 bid cap, so you're competing for less competitive keywords. Focus on long-tail, mission-specific terms.
  • Maintain 5% CTR or lose access: Google requires a 5% click-through rate. Pause low-performing keywords aggressively.
  • Must have conversion tracking: Set up at least one meaningful conversion (donation, signup, volunteer form) or risk account suspension.
  • No single-word keywords: Except for your brand name. Use 2+ word phrases that match searcher intent.
  • Log in monthly: Accounts that go 90+ days without login can be suspended. Set a calendar reminder.
  • Consider hiring a specialist: Ad Grants management is complex. Many agencies specialize in nonprofit Google Ads.
  Apply
• Enable Facebook Fundraising Let supporters create fundraisers for your cause. Must register as a charitable organization on Facebook.
  Set Up
• Register on GuideStar (Candid) The go-to resource for nonprofit transparency. Donors check here before giving.
  Register
• List on GreatNonprofits Community-driven nonprofit reviews. Ask volunteers and beneficiaries to leave reviews.
  List
• Submit to Charity Navigator Major charity rating site. A good rating builds donor trust.
  Submit
• Engage on r/nonprofit Community of nonprofit professionals. Share insights and connect with peers.
  Visit

Agency & B2B Agency/B2B

Directories and review platforms for agencies and B2B companies.

• Get listed on Clutch.co B2B ratings and reviews platform. Important for agencies seeking enterprise clients.

  Expert Tips

  • Reviews are verified by Clutch analysts. They call your clients directly to verify. Only submit clients who will speak positively and are reachable.
  • 5-10 reviews to rank competitively: More reviews = higher rankings. Ask your best long-term clients first — they'll give the most detailed responses.
  • Complete your profile thoroughly: Add case studies, team size, hourly rates, and focus areas. Clutch's algorithm favors complete profiles.
  • Choose categories carefully: You can appear in multiple service categories. Pick ones where you can realistically compete and collect category-specific reviews.
  • Respond to your reviews: Thank clients publicly. It shows you're engaged and professional.
  • Clutch is pay-to-play at higher levels: Free listing works, but sponsored placements get more visibility. Consider it once you have solid reviews.
  • Use your Clutch badge: Add the widget to your website. It builds credibility and links back to your reviews.
  • Prepare clients for the call: Let them know Clutch will call. Remind them of the project scope and outcomes so they give detailed feedback.
  Submit
• Claim TrustPilot profile Widely used for business reviews, especially in UK/Europe. Encourage customers to leave reviews.
  Claim Profile

E-commerce E-commerce

Essential platforms for online stores.

• Set up Google Merchant Center Get your products in Google Shopping results. Essential for any e-commerce store.

  Expert Tips

  • Data quality is everything. Google rejects products with missing info, wrong prices, or mismatched data. Your feed must match your website exactly.
  • Use high-quality images: Clean white background, at least 800x800 pixels, product fills 75%+ of frame. Bad images = low click rates.
  • Optimize product titles: Include brand, product type, key attributes (size, color). "Nike Air Max 90 Men's Running Shoes - Black/White - Size 10"
  • Free listings are now available: Even without running Google Ads, your products can appear in the Shopping tab. Enable "Surfaces across Google."
  • Connect to Google Ads for Shopping campaigns: Paid Shopping ads appear at the top of search. Start with Smart Shopping campaigns if you're new.
  • Keep your feed fresh: Update prices and availability daily. Out-of-stock items or price mismatches get your account suspended.
  • Use GTINs and MPNs: Products with barcodes (GTINs) or manufacturer part numbers perform better. Add them to your feed.
  • Set up conversion tracking: You need to measure what's working. Connect Google Analytics and import conversions into Google Ads.
  Set Up
• Apply to sell on Wayfair Home Goods Major home goods marketplace. For furniture, decor, and home product sellers.
  Apply
• Post to r/ecommerce 300k+ store owners. Share your launch, ask questions, and learn from others.
  Post

Entertainment & Events Entertainment

Platforms for entertainers, performers, and event services.

• List on GigSalad Marketplace for entertainers and event services. Musicians, DJs, photographers, caterers, etc.
  List
• List on The Bash Formerly GigMasters. Event entertainment booking platform.
  List
• Get listed on WeddingWire Wedding Major wedding vendor directory. Essential for photographers, venues, caterers, planners.
  Sign Up
• Post to r/entertainment General entertainment community. Share relevant content and connect with audiences.
  Visit