Whether you’re planning an app from scratch or gearing up for the next release, getting people in the door is only half the battle. The apps that truly resonate with users (and impress investors) are the ones that keep people engaged and coming back—week after week—instead of gathering digital dust on their phones.
Here are three practical ways to design your app so users stick around.
Nail the first five minutes
It’s every app creator’s nightmare: users download your app, open it once… and never return.
Opening an app for the first time is a make or break moment for customers. Users should know exactly what to do next, not feel lost in a sea of options or left wondering, “What’s the point of this app?”
A short onboarding sequence can make all the difference. Guide new users through the core value of your app without overwhelming them. Show them a quick win early. A little extra clarity upfront can prevent them from bouncing before they even dive in.
Be a relationship builder
Think about the apps you use daily. They probably don’t just function; they connect. Over time, they feel like they know you.
Maybe they suggest content based on your past activity. Maybe they encourage streaks, celebrate milestones, or reward progress. These small touches, like personalization and gamification, turn a one-time interaction into an ongoing habit.
The key is to make users feel like the app is just what they need, when they need it. Because when it is, they’ll keep coming back.
Use your secret notifications weapon (wisely)
Mobile apps have a built-in engagement engine: push notifications. Used well, they’re a powerful way to re-engage users and strengthen your relationship.
The trick? Make them helpful, personal, and timely. A relevant reminder or a gentle nudge tied to the user’s behavior can bring them back without feeling intrusive.
But make sure to avoid the cardinal sin of notifications: spam. Nobody loves the app that blasts random alerts. But thoughtful, well-crafted notifications can transform casual visitors into loyal fans.
Creating engaged users is a skill of its own — but one that’s often well worth the investment. And your users will likely reward you by coming back again and again.
Photo by Ismael Paramo on Unsplash
