Your Customer Hates You

Turning "Customer Hate" Into Insight: A 4-Step Guide

1. Start With Research, Not Questions
   Before you talk to anyone, dive deep into the world of your potential customers. Read reviews, join forums, follow their discussions online, and observe how they articulate their challenges. Look for patterns—what frustrates them? What’s missing from their current solutions?

2. Craft an Assumption Hypothesis
   Write down your top assumptions about your customers’ pain points and how your solution addresses them. Be as specific as possible. For example: "I assume small business owners are frustrated with overly complex accounting tools and want a simple, mobile-first solution."

3. Test Small, Refine Often
   Validate your assumptions through experimentation. Use tools like surveys, landing pages, or even one-on-one calls to gauge interest. But keep it small—this isn’t about selling yet; it’s about seeing what resonates. Track the responses and refine your ideas accordingly.

4. Earn Their Attention
   Approach potential customers with a clear value proposition. Show that you’ve done the work to understand them. Instead of asking broad questions like, “What’s your biggest challenge?” try this:
   “I’ve noticed many small business owners struggle with complex accounting tools. Does that resonate with you? Here’s how I might help.”

Bonus Tip:
Treat rejection or apathy as data. If they don’t care, dig deeper into why—and pivot accordingly.