Blink

How Taly Matiteyahu Launched an Audio-Only Dating App From Scratch

Founded By

Taly Matiteyahu

Days To Build

365

Founders

Profitable

Yes

Days To Build

365

Year Started

2020

Customer

B2C

Founded By
Taly Matiteyahu: Days To Build
365: Founders
2

Profitable
Yes: Days To Build
365: Year Started
2020

Customer
B2C

Who is Taly Matiteyahu?

Taly Matiteyahu, a first-generation American, graduated from New York University and Columbia Law School, before transitioning from a legal career to founding Blink, inspired by her passion for innovative product development in tech.

What problem does Blink solve?

Blink helps people form meaningful connections by focusing on personality and conversation, not looks, eliminating superficial judgments common in traditional dating apps.

Blink Date Homepage

How did Taly come up with the idea for Blink?

The idea for Blink emerged in 2012 when Taly Matiteyahu dined at a blackout restaurant and engaged deeply with strangers based entirely on conversation. The experience revealed how removing visual biases allowed for more open and meaningful interactions, sparking the thought, "Would people be more open to dating and developing relationships if they couldn't judge each other's appearances first?"

Over the years, this idea simmered, and Matiteyahu observed the growing trend of audio platforms like Clubhouse and cultural influences such as Netflix’s "Love is Blind." These inspirations motivated Taly to revisit and refine her concept, finally taking the plunge in March 2020 to create a space where personality and conversation reign supreme in dating.

To validate her vision, Taly explored the idea of conducting blind speed dating events, eventually pivoting to a virtual format as the pandemic altered social interactions. Feedback from initial trials helped shape Blink's audio-first approach, focusing on genuine connections rather than appearances. The journey involved challenges, especially as a non-technical founder, but embracing a mindset of learning and flexibility enabled her to pursue this unique venture.

How did Taly build the initial version of Blink?

Taly Matiteyahu began building Blink, an audio-only blind speed dating app, in March 2020. The development process started virtually, given the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic and involved collaborations with developers to craft a seamless user experience that emphasized audio communication over visual cues. The initial prototype leveraged existing audio platform technologies, similar to those of emerging audio-only social platforms like Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces, to facilitate interactive blind dates. As a non-technical founder, Taly had to navigate the challenge of developing an innovative app on a limited budget, investing major resources into app development due to her non-technical background. This phase was intensive and posed financial challenges, but it was essential for creating a market-ready product that would disrupt the traditional dating scene.

What was the growth strategy for Blink and how did they scale?

Podcast: Date in a Blink

Blink leveraged their podcast, "Date in a Blink", which is an audio-only blind speed date podcast. This not only served as an innovative format to engage with potential users but also worked as a marketing tool to showcase their unique concept in action. Participants of the podcast would share their experiences, effectively spreading word-of-mouth and adding credibility to the audio-based dating system.

Date in a Blink Podcast Page

Why it worked: The podcast format served two purposes: it validated the concept while generating content that could be repurposed for marketing. The unique, interactive approach resonated with the audience, who were looking for meaningful connections beyond superficial swipes.

Blink actively used social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to engage with their audience. They created content that reflected the brand’s core message of focusing on personality and values over appearance.

embed:tweet

Why it worked: By maintaining an active presence on platforms where their target demographic spends time, Blink was able to foster a community and increase brand loyalty. The consistent messaging helped attract users who were tired of the traditional dating app culture.

Email Marketing

During the app's development phase, Blink put significant efforts into building and engaging with an email list. They used newsletters to keep potential users informed about the app's progress, features, and the philosophy behind it.

Why it worked: Email marketing allowed Blink to maintain a direct line of communication with interested users, keeping them engaged and anticipating the launch. The personalized approach helped build a connection with the audience, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Strategic Partnerships

Blink engaged with relationship and dating coaches and found podcasts that catered to their target audience. This way, they could tap into existing communities aligned with their ethos.

Why it worked: By identifying and collaborating with partners who had established credibility with their target demographic, Blink expanded their reach efficiently. These partnerships allowed them to gain trust and visibility within niche communities that value deeper connections.

What's the pricing strategy for Blink?

Blink offers a freemium model with core features accessible for free, encouraging users to engage deeply before offering premium features at competitive rates.

What were the biggest lessons learned from building Blink?

Embrace Feedback: Blink's pivot to virtual speed dating during the pandemic was a response to feedback and changing circumstances. Listening to users and adapting quickly can open up new opportunities.
Gut Instinct Matters: Trust your gut feelings when making business decisions. The founder realized the importance of listening to her instincts, which helps in navigating uncertain terrains.
Budget Smartly: As a non-technical founder, allocating a lot of the budget to app development while being creative with marketing was crucial. Knowing where to spend money is pivotal.
Network Wisely: Building a strong network was key for overcoming challenges. The support from colleagues and friends emphasized the importance of a reliable support system.
Name Carefully: Thoroughly research and vet potential business names before moving forward with branding. Simple steps like a Google search can prevent future headaches.

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