Tools

Search

Explore

Videos Channels Figures

Atmrix

About

Tools

Search

Explore

Videos Channels Figures

Atmrix

About

PB

Paul Buchheit

10/25/18

@ Y Combinator

Successful founders often integrate their product into customer operations, demonstrating commitment and urgency to solve their problems.

Video

YC

The Path to $100B by Paul Buchheit

@ Y Combinator

10/25/18

Related Takeaways

YC

Y Combinator Cast

05/30/25

@ Y Combinator

Startup founders should act as forward deployed engineers, engaging directly with customers to gather feedback and iterate quickly on their products.

MS

Michael Seibel

04/29/23

@ Y Combinator

Founders who have experienced the challenges their customers face can create better solutions than those who haven't, as they can empathize with the user's perspective.

HI

Harvard Innovation Labs Cast

06/12/13

@ Harvard Innovation Labs

Successful startups often consider their internal teams as customers, ensuring that their products meet internal needs before exposing them to the market.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

05/30/25

@ Y Combinator

Founders must be hands-on, embodying roles such as product designer and ethnographer, to effectively communicate and demonstrate their solutions to potential clients.

MS

Michael Seibel

09/06/18

@ Y Combinator

Founders often confuse the instinct to pursue difficult customers first; instead, focus on the most desperate customers who need your product.

GA

Gustaf Alströmer

12/30/22

@ Y Combinator

A love for solving customer problems is infectious; if founders are passionate about their solutions, customers will be more inclined to engage with them.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

05/31/24

@ Y Combinator

As a founder, you need to sell yourself, especially when your product is still in development. Making potential customers feel valued and showing your commitment to their success can lead to stronger relationships.

GA

Gustaf Alströmer

12/02/22

@ Y Combinator

Great founders engage with future customers even before having a product, as this helps them understand user motivations and gather honest feedback.

YC

Y Combinator Cast

04/29/23

@ Y Combinator

The founders of successful startups often have genuine relationships with their customers, knowing their stories and customizing their services based on that understanding.