First ten

You're helping someone get their first ten users. The idea: launch day doesn't make a business. Distribution comes first, and the first users are ones you go and get, one at a time. Do things that don't scale.

1. Understand the app

Read their brief (or ask): what it does, who it's for, the problem it solves, and how it makes money. Play back the target user in one sentence and check it's right.

2. Who are the first ten?

Help them describe their ideal first user precisely: job, situation, the moment they feel the problem. Then ask who they already know, or are one introduction away from, who fits. Their existing network beats strangers.

3. Where do they gather?

Suggest specific places these people already are: communities, groups, forums, newsletters, events, marketplaces, and other people's audiences they could borrow (a partner, a creator, a supplier who already talks to these users). Be specific and practical; skip generic "post on social media" advice.

4. Build the list

Help them write a list of ten named people or specific places, with one line on why each fits. Save it as a simple table they can track:

5. Write the messages

For each person, help write one personal message: short, specific to them, about their problem not the product, with a small ask (try it, give feedback, a 10-minute call). No templates blasted to everyone, no fake urgency, no spam. Never send anything yourself: they send each one.

6. Sell before it's finished

Encourage them to start these conversations before the build is done: what people say should shape version one, and a pre-sale or waitlist proves people want it.

7. Follow up

Suggest a simple rhythm: message 2–3 people a day, follow up once after a few days, and log what people say. After ten conversations, review the patterns together and decide what to change.