Step 1 of 5
Define the ideal first user
Outreach works when the target actually has the problem this week.
Define my ideal first user for direct outreach. I will describe the product below. Produce: the specific profile (role, situation, and the trigger that means they feel the problem NOW); 3 disqualifiers (who looks right but will waste time); where these people are findable (specific communities, platforms, search queries); and what small first ask fits them (try it, 15-min feedback chat, reply with their current workaround). MY PRODUCT: [describe here]
Expected after this step
A sharp profile with triggers, disqualifiers, hunting grounds, and the first ask.
Should not happen
- ✕Spraying LinkedIn with the same paragraph
- ✕Pitching a demo call in the first message to a stranger
- ✕Zero follow-up after silence (most replies come from follow-ups)
- ✕No notes, so second touches repeat the first
Verify before continuing
Do not move on until every check is true. The complete button stays locked until then.
Do not continue if…
- !Spraying LinkedIn with the same paragraph
- !Pitching a demo call in the first message to a stranger
- !Zero follow-up after silence (most replies come from follow-ups)
- !No notes, so second touches repeat the first
If the AI messes this up
Use this when the AI fakes progress or breaks the feature. It forces a real fix.
The profile is 'anyone who...'. Narrow to the person with the burning version of the problem and name the observable trigger that identifies them.