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This is a simple one to answer: Validate your idea with customers!
We can't stress this enough. Before investing time, money, and energy into building your product or service, you must ensure that real people actually want what you're offering. First, work on your UVP (Unique Value Proposition) and clarify it.
Next, talk to potential customers—understand their pain points, needs, and how your solution fits into their lives. Run small, inexpensive tests like landing pages, prototypes, or pre-sales to gauge interest and gather feedback.
A good idea resonates with your target market, solves a real problem, and has the potential to grow. Remember, the sooner you validate, the sooner you can iterate or pivot, saving you from costly mistakes.
Does anybody want to share how they validated their startup ideas?
And don't forget to check out our IDEA VALIDATION BOOTCAMP if you need help: https://www.startups.com/courses/idea-validation-bootcamp
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Ed Kang
I try to sell my product on day 1, even if the product doesn't exist, using founder-led sales. If the UVP isn't clear enough for them to pre-commit, I go back to the drawing board. If they thank me for solving the problem and tell me to keep them posted because they'll definitely become customers, I know I'm on the right track.
Do NOT build first and learn later. Learn first, then the building is easy.