#37 Angelinvesting.it - From idea to Series A - Weekly Newsletter

Silent Startups Fail

3 Minutes to reflect

‘If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?" This adage is frequently mentioned in philosophical contexts, framing a debate on perception and reality. In other words, if an event occurs but no one is there to witness or hear it, does it still have impact or reality?

In metaphysics, the debate continues. However, in the world of startups, the debate is settled.

If target customers are unaware that a startup exists, for all intents and purposes, that startup does not exist. If investors are unaware of you, investments won’t materialize.

Thus, visibility achieved through communication becomes a matter of life and death for every new entrepreneurial project.

Some founders, especially those with tech-heavy teams, may be lulled into thinking that an outstanding product alone will make them stand out. They might assume the product will sell itself. In reality, this is rarely the case. Standing out amidst the noise of modern life demands well-executed communication.

On the other end of the spectrum, with overly marketing-focused founders, there's another pitfall. One might think that compelling storytelling alone ensures success. Unfortunately, no amount of communication can yield results if the underlying product is subpar.

In essence, having a quality product is as crucial as the ability to effectively communicate and sell it. It's the image of the brilliant inventor Wozniak, who creates a top-notch product, combined with the communicative genius of Steve Jobs, that creates magic. It’s yin and yang. The right side of the brain working in harmony with the left.

2 Resources to pro

Building in Public

Introducing "building in public". This approach is about openly sharing your entrepreneurial journey with the world, communicating both the highs and lows, and crucially, sharing each stride authentically.

In the hyper-connected digital age, a startup that opens its doors, invites feedback, and narrates its unfolding story not only gains visibility but also builds a community that feels invested in its success.

Read more about building in public here.

Also check Brian Chesky, AirBnb CEO, brillantly Building in public in this Twitter thread

1000 True Fans

Many founders do not realize what Kevin Kelly masterfully summarized in his 2008 blog post, "1000 True Fans." Creators, businesses, or innovators don't necessarily need a massive audience to thrive. Instead, they require just a thousand passionate supporters or "true fans".

These individuals are so enamored with your vision, product, or service that they will go to any length to support and champion your cause.

Instead of spreading resources thin to capture a wide yet disengaged audience, the focus narrows down to building deep connections with a relatively small group of people.

This core group becomes the driving force behind organic growth, word-of-mouth referrals, and sustained revenue. In an era where the clamor for attention is overwhelming, "1000 True Fans" serves as a reminder that depth can sometimes outweigh breadth, and genuine relationships often surpass vast numbers in value.

Read the original article here

1 Reason to be happy

Building in public the Elon Musk way…

Have a great weekend,

Simone

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