Successful startups often start with non-scalable methods to acquire their first customers before moving to scalable growth channels.

Growth channels are platforms where people discover products, such as Google and social media advertising.

Before launching your product, focus on building quickly and optimizing for the next stage of growth, rather than trying to cater to a large user base right away.

In the early stages, focus on one growth channel at a time. Execute on it for a week, and if it works, continue until it caps out. If it doesn't, move on to another channel.

To grow effectively, you need to identify and focus on the growth channels that align with your product's unique characteristics.

In the early stages, focus on organic growth rather than paid users, as relying on paid growth can be misleading and should be avoided as much as possible.

In the early days, focus on product retention rather than just growth. If your retention rate is low, prioritize improving your product before trying to scale.

The best companies grow through word-of-mouth rather than paid acquisition, and in the early days of a startup, if you lack funds, focus on growing your business without spending money by doing things that don't scale. This organic growth is a sign of a strong product that resonates with users.

When a growth channel fails, don't hesitate to move on. However, revisit those channels later as your business evolves; you might find new opportunities.