Building a thriving product-based business is no small feat, but Noah Greenberg, whose product now generates $300K/month, shares a clear roadmap to help new entrepreneurs find their footing. Whether you’re launching a startup or scaling a side hustle, here’s a 7-step guide to getting your first 10 customers and creating a pipeline for the next 100.
1. The Friends and Family Round
Start by creating a list of 100 companies that might be interested in your product. Then, dive deep: for each company, identify 4-5 key employees on LinkedIn who might resonate with your offering. Use mutual connections to request introductions. Be bold but not overbearing—just 20% shameless.
2. The Feedback First Approach
Instead of pitching, ask for advice. A sample message might be:
“We’re launching a product in this space, and I’d love your feedback as we refine our strategy for next year.”
The magic? You’re not selling; you’re involving. About 1 in 5 conversations will naturally evolve into interest in your product.
3. Build a LinkedIn Content Engine
Post on LinkedIn 3x a week, speaking directly to your target persona. For example, if you’re targeting marketing executives, share insights they’ll find valuable. Keep a journal of ideas from your daily work and transform those into posts. The cringe factor is real at first, but with consistency, your content will improve and attract attention.
4. Strategic LinkedIn Connections
Send 25 connection requests weekly to potential prospects. Skip the personalized message—it’s unnecessary and often counterproductive. Once connected, don’t immediately send a pitch; let your content do the talking. Over time, they’ll see your posts and start engaging organically.
5. Create “Watering Hole” Posts
These posts encourage conversation and draw in your ideal audience. For example, share a hot take on an industry trend or ask for opinions on a common challenge. Experimentation is key. When people engage in the comments, you’ll know you’re striking a chord.
6. Nurture Engagement
When someone engages with your content, connect with them and start a conversation. These connections lay the foundation for future outreach.
7. Thoughtful Outreach
After about a month of connection-building, reach out to engage further. Avoid hard sells; instead, ask for feedback or offer trial packages. People love being part of something innovative and value having their opinions heard.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
* Utilize your network to build connections.
* Consistently share valuable content.
* Prioritize adding value over aggressive selling.
* With dedication and persistence, this approach can help you build not just a customer base but a community of loyal advocates.
