1. Don't overcomplicate
I know it's obvious, but a lot of founders do this mistake. Before even starting development make a backlog of all of the features you want to include.
Then reduce it to get the minimal salable version.
And then start development.
2. Use as many no-code solutions as possible
This can save a ton of time and money.
You don't need a fully automated rocket ship at the start.
A boat with oars can do the job.
You can scale it later.
3. Think about the next steps
When I tried to build my first startup, my mistake was to not think about what will be after the launch.
I thought users will magically appear and pay me.
Build a plan with direct steps of what you can do to make 1, 10, and 100 sales.
4. Start marketing ASAP
Even before you start development.
In case you are playing long-term (you should) start doing content marketing.
Don't know how? Find a person who can do it for you. It's worth it.
5. Plan your budget
You can't say how fast you'll make money so it's better to understand how much you can spend until you start earning.
6. Plan your exit
It's a good technique to set clear goals.
Let's say you want to scale to $50k ARR and then sell it.
Now you have a clear goal and can build a plan based on this goal.
7. Set deadlines
Very sobering tactic. Set short and achievable goals in short periods.
It helps to stay involved and rejoice in small victories.
8 days in my case was very dense.
8. Build in public
It's just fun. As a bonus, you can find your audience.
If not it will help you not to quit and reach your deadlines.
Public promises are hard to keep, but it's easy to get along with yourself.
P.S.
I'm writing PROOFS — a newsletter about Marketing for Developers. Sharing simple steps you can follow to build your product. Join here.
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