Ask HN: What are your go-to methods for promoting your project?

I feel that there is a saturation of new products and that the more cliche promotional channels, such as Instagram Ads, etc. is either ineffective or too costly.

I try to implement more forward thinking and unconventional strategies as I find them yielding better results.

What are some examples of such strategies in your opinion? Or rather, what have been the most effective channels you've utilized?