Quote from James A.Hart on July 17, 2025, 12:20 am

Most new entrepreneurs wait far too long to test whether anyone actually wants what they plan to sell. They spend months developing a product, perfecting a brand, or sourcing manufacturers — all without knowing if anyone’s paying attention.

But there’s a much simpler way to validate your business:
Watch who raises their hand.

If someone joins your email list, replies to your post, or says “this sounds interesting,” that’s a signal. It means you’re building something that resonates — and that’s enough to move forward.

You Don’t Need a Product to Start

There’s a common misconception that you need inventory, branding, or even a prototype before testing your idea. You don’t.

All you need is a simple landing page that collects emails, and a few posts announcing your direction.
That alone is enough to start seeing signs of life.

What you’re looking for isn’t sales. It’s interest.

Interest Is a Leading Indicator of Sales

If a few people raise their hands, more will follow — especially if they fit your target audience.

That’s why the very first step is to share what you’re building, even if it’s not finished.
Your first email subscriber might be a close friend or family member. That’s fine. The second might be a total stranger. Even better.

Once you see people opting in, replying, tagging others, or offering support, you’re no longer guessing. You’re getting proof.

Attention First, Product Later

Building an audience before you launch isn’t a fancy growth hack. It’s how smart businesses reduce risk.

When you have 100+ people on your list — people who’ve actively shown interest — you’re not launching into a void. You’re launching into a conversation that’s already started.

And if your product isn’t ready yet? Even better. That gives you time to talk to your audience, get feedback, and shape the offer around what they actually want.

Bottom line:
If people are raising their hands, you’re already on the right path.
That signal of interest is worth more than a logo, a factory contact, or even a finished product.

The goal isn’t to build something perfect. The goal is to build something people care about.
And the first step is simple:
Get them to raise their hand.