Do They Even Want This? How to Get Real Customer Feedback on Your Product

In the early days of building a startup, it’s easy to get stuck talking to people who’ll say your idea is “cool” — but that’s not the same as customer feedback.In this episode of the TxO Startup Hotline series, Kofi Ampadu, partner at a16z and head of TxO, breaks down a practical, no-frills approach to getting real input from potential customers. Learn how to identify who your customer actually is, how to connect with them (without overthinking it), and what to listen for to know if they care enough to pay.If you’re stuck on how to start customer interviews, this one’s for you.Timestamps:00:00 – The trap of sharing your idea with the wrong people01:12 – Why early customer feedback matters01:35 – Step 1: Identify your ideal customer01:50 – Step 2: How to actually connect and get feedback02:22 – Step 3: Make sure they care enough to pay02:30 – Why behavior > opinions02:40 – What if the user and the buyer are different?02:50 – Recap: A simple 3-step plan to talk to your customersWant your question answered in the series? Call 1-844-DIAL-TXO and leave us a message.The Talent x Opportunity initiative (TxO) at Andreessen Horowitz supports founders building cultural innovations through funding, training and ongoing mentorship. Learn more about a16z TxO and stay updated:https://a16z.com/txohttps://x.com/a16ztxohttps://www.instagram.com/a16ztxo/https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/a16z-txoThe content here is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. Please note that a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed in this product. For more details, including a link to our investments, please see a16z.com/disclosures Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.