Glossary
What are Reddit's self-promotion rules?
Reddit's self-promotion rules are the site-wide and subreddit rules that limit how much you can post about your own product. Reddit asks users to participate genuinely rather than only promote, and many subreddits ban self-promotion or allow it only in specific threads. Breaking them gets posts removed and accounts banned.
The rules
Reddit's content policy forbids spam and vote manipulation. Its guidance for people sharing their own work is to be a real member of the community: comment and contribute beyond your own links. Each subreddit adds rules: some ban promotion, some have weekly "share your project" threads, some require a minimum account age or karma.
What works
- Answering questions in detail, mentioning your product only when it genuinely fits.
- Posting what you learned, with data, in founder subreddits.
- Using designated self-promotion threads.
- Disclosing that you made it.
What gets you banned
Posting the same link across many subreddits, sockpuppet accounts recommending your product, asking for upvotes, and ignoring subreddit rules.
Why Reddit matters now
Reddit threads rank prominently in Google, appear in "Discussions and forums" features and are read by AI systems. A helpful thread recommending your product can send visitors for years. See how to promote a SaaS on Reddit.
Example
A founder posts a detailed breakdown of 100 directory submissions in a founder subreddit, with no link in the post and a mention in the comments when asked. It becomes a top post of the week and a steady referrer.
FAQ
Can I post my startup on Reddit?
Yes, where subreddit rules allow it, with disclosure and genuine participation.
What is the 10% rule on Reddit?
An older guideline that self-promotion should be a small share of your activity; the spirit still applies.
Do Reddit links help SEO?
Links are usually nofollow, but threads bring visitors and mentions AI systems read.