A slow start. $0k in 5 months.

Aug: $0

Built GoDesignGo.co V1 in Squarespace, using their native fonts and even the logo was just created by typing the name as the site title. Aim was to get something out as quickly as possible to start validating.

Sept: $0

Discovery calls with members of my network on LinkedIn that fit my ICP (start-up founders and design hirers within early stage startups) to validate my initial website and messaging. 3 discovery calls, 0 clients

Oct: $0

Updated site based on feedback, setting out to answer their questions around types of problem the service could solve while also better explaining the process of how it works.

Nov: $0

Re-built website using Webflow to match the quality of sites being launched on ProductHunt and IH. Took me longer than expected. Even when using a template I had bought to use as a starting point.

Dec: $0

Still updating the site, tweaking messaging and adding in new sections. My 9-5 also saw an increase in hours so time was tight.

Jan: $0

Will be focussing on acquiring customers through IH, Cold outreach on LinkedIn and approaching VCs.

Mistakes

Realised I had spent the first couple of months putting off what really needed to be done to get that first client; distribution!
Not asking the people on my discovery calls point blank why they wouldn’t subscribe to GoDesignGo.

New strategy

• Understanding the main blocker that would prevent prospective buyers subscribing. Is it price? Lack of understanding of the model? Perhaps the wrong target market?
• Identify most successful way to niche down; services provided, area of focus, industry etc
• Cold DM prospects on LinkedIn
• Increase activity on IH (am limited on how much I can post on LinkedIn as my current employers wouldn’t be overly keen on me launching a design service while employed “full-time”)

My goal in 2024 is to reach $25k MRR. If you want to follow my journey, I’ll be posting fortnightly updates on https://www.indiehackers.com/product/godesigngo