How To Generate Interest In Your Startup

Getting customers interested in your startup’s service or product is essential in more ways than one. Not only are customers necessary for business but they are also a great source for feedback. Many startup companies develop their ideas with the help and suggestions of their first customers. So, how do you get these vital customers interested? There are several methods you can try to generate buzz for your startup.

One method includes special discounts and a waiting list. Creating a waiting list and giving people a reason to sign up for your product will make consumers feel special, like they are the only ones you’re marketing to.

(Curated from Tech.Co)

“This tip works particularly well with mobile apps and innovative online services. Gauge up the buzz and attract early adopters anxious to try something new. Offer incentives and special perks for users to sign up early, such as a free membership plan for a month or special discounts.”

If you want to generate some online buzz for your startup, post original, creative content on your website or blog. People love visuals, so infographics are effective when developing a marketing strategy.

“Infographics kept bringing traffic to us like clockwork,” – says Anand Srinivasan, CEO at LeadJoint, “You need a good, evergreen idea, preferably the one explaining a complicated concept or process in a simple visually appealing way or some lesser-known fun data to generate the first wave of interest. Outreach to bloggers asking them if they would like to have a look at your visual. That’s essential. Do ask them to share or post your infographic straight away. Afterwards, if they feel interested offer to write a unique 200 words intro to go along with the image. Chances of successful placement rise drastically.”

Local events and a strong online presence go a long way in acquiring new customers. From infographics and waiting lists to networking on LinkedIn, there are several ways you can generate interest in your startup. What do you think is the most effective strategy for building a customer base?

How To Give Your Startup An Edge

Launching a successful startup is one of the most challenging tasks in the business world. Entrepreneurs face numerous obstacles and if you’re not prepared properly or lack the right skills, the process becomes even more difficult. But there are a few things you can do to give yourself an edge over the competition such as going beyond your product. If you make your product or service more than just a name it will draw more customers.

(Curated from Tech.Co)

“Try to position your business around an idea or movement that goes beyond the products you sell. Disney’s brand, for example, is “where dreams come true”. That brand image is broader than simply movies and amusement parks. Subway has positioned their company as a weight loss program. This branding goes beyond their food.”

You can also find success by becoming an expert in your field. With enough expertise, you won’t have to chase customers, they will come to you. Another great way to find more customers is by personal referrals. If you can find one customer or client to trust in you and your company, they will be more likely to share the benefits of your ideas with their friends.

“The easier way to find a new customer is when an existing client tells a friend about you. That can happen when customers become fans of your work. By delivering a great product and good customer service, you can start getting word of mouth referrals to your business.”

One of the best ways to help your company succeed is to hire the right people. Not only should you make sure that you hire qualified people, but also people who will fit in with your company and your brand.

“The team you hire can have a big impact on your company’s success. Forbes explains that good employees are interested in your business’s culture. Many workers are also drawn to positions that allow them to work remotely. Keep these points in mind as you look for talented people.”

As you work towards launching your startup company, the biggest advantage you can have is to set yourself apart from the competition. If you stand out among in the crowd, you are more likely to find success. How are you giving your startup an edge?

5 Upcoming Events for Entrepreneurs in Pittsburgh

If you’re an entrepreneur, Pittsburgh is a great place to be. Along with several big universities and colleges, Pittsburgh is also home to a few incubators for startup companies and entrepreneurs. This month, many of these organizations are hosting events aimed at entrepreneurs and young companies. Here are a few of the upcoming events for entrepreneurs in Pittsburgh.

1. Chatham hosts a Women’s Business Leaders breakfast series for young women interested in joining the industry. At their next breakfast on June 12, they will cover effective branding and marketing techniques with Darieth Chisolm as the featured speaker.

(Curated from Chatham University)

“Darieth launched Hustle & Heart TV in August 2014 and enjoyed 10 weeks at #1 on iTunes in Business Video. She earned over $10,000 in advertising sales in her first month alone and increased her email list significantly. She will show you how to implement 7 additional revenue streams from your video podcast show, while enhancing your brand and influence.”

2. The Pittsburgh Entrepreneur Meetup Group is another great source if you’re looking to do some networking. They meet on the fourth Tuesday of every month. You can stop by the next meeting on June 23.
3. You also don’t want to miss Web Design Days on June 11 - June 12, when you can meet several creative web design professionals.. With over 10 speakers, you can learn everything from combining culture and music with design to responsive web design.

(Curated from Web Design Days)

“Yesenia Perez-Cruz is a designer based out of Philadelphia, PA. She has created beautiful, functional design systems for clients like MTV, Zappos, and Iron Chef Jose Garces. She currently works at Intuitive Company, where her role spans design strategy, user experience, and graphic design. Previously, she was a Senior Designer at Happy Cog in Philadelphia.”

4. Saturday, June 13th is Pittsburgh TechFest. It’s a day for software development professionals to meet up and discuss various aspects of their industry. The event will take place at La Roche college and only costs $10.
5. The Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence at the University of Pittsburgh is hosting several workshops for young entrepreneurs this summer. For helpful tips on how to form an effective business plan, check out the calendar of events for Pitt’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC).