Edition #1: Why You Should Sell Before You Build
Why risk building before knowing it’ll sell? In this edition of Zero to Validation, learn why early adopters buy promises, not products, and how to validate your idea fast. Discover mindset shifts and practical steps to test demand and refine your pitch—saving time and money.
Welcome to Zero to Validation: Edition #1
This newsletter is all about helping entrepreneurs avoid costly mistakes by focusing on what really matters—building something people actually want. Every week, we’ll share practical advice and strategies you can use right away to validate your ideas and move closer to success.
Here’s this week’s breakdown:
• 1 Core Insight
• 2 Mindset Shifts to Adopt
• 3 Practical Actions to Take
Let’s get into it.
This Week’s Insight
“The best products are sold before they’re built.”
Here’s the thing: early adopters don’t buy what you’ve already built; they buy into the solution you promise. This means your first step isn’t to create the perfect product—it’s to prove people are willing to pay for the idea behind it.
Mindset Shifts
1. Think of Your Product as a Contract, Not a Creation
When someone buys early, they’re not purchasing a finished product; they’re entering into a contract with you. They’re saying, “If you can solve this problem, I’ll pay you for it.” Your job is to convince them that your product will deliver on that promise—not to build something flawless from day one.
2. Selling Is Your First Test of Value
You don’t need a finished product to learn what people care about. In fact, the act of selling itself can reveal whether your idea is worth pursuing. If people aren’t willing to pay for your promise, building the product won’t change their minds.
Actions You Can Take
1. Test Interest with a Simple Pitch
Instead of spending weeks building a product, start with a pitch.
Here’s how:
• Write a one-sentence promise that clearly states the problem you solve.
• Share this pitch with potential customers in your network.
• Ask for their reaction: “Would you pay for this solution if it were available today?”
If you hear hesitation or objections, use their feedback to refine your pitch.
2. Create a “Mini Campaign”
You don’t need a full marketing strategy to test demand. A simple campaign will do.
Steps:
• Build a one-page website explaining your solution.
• Include a visual representation of your idea (a video, a mockup, or even a diagram).
• Add a call-to-action: “Sign up to be the first to try it” or “Pre-order now for an early-bird discount.”
Monitor how many people respond. If the numbers are low, tweak the message and try again.
3. Talk Directly to Potential Buyers
Don’t hide behind online forms and ads—get personal.
Steps:
• Identify 5-10 people who fit your ideal customer profile.
• Share your idea with them, and ask if they’d pay for it today.
• If they say no, dig deeper: What’s missing? What would make them say yes?
This approach will give you unfiltered insights into how your product fits their needs.
Why This Works
When you sell before you build, you’re not just avoiding waste—you’re gathering the evidence you need to make better decisions. This process helps you:
• Identify if your solution resonates with real customers.
• Refine your offering to match what people truly need.
• Gain confidence before you invest significant time and resources.
What’s Next?
In the next edition, we’ll tackle why you should be charging from day one—and why setting the right price is about more than just numbers.
Your Turn
What are your biggest challenges when testing new ideas? Hit reply and let me know. I’ll pick a few to cover in future editions!
To progress,
Amjad
Zero to Validation
Helping you move from ideas to successful businesses with speed and clarity.
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Amjad Shahrour
