Applied systematic idea incubation methodology to validate a consumer networking tool for job seekers, conducting extensive user research and MVP testing before making strategic decision to shelf the project.
Challenge
Job seekers struggle with effective networking, often relying on cold outreach that feels impersonal and yields low response rates. Traditional networking approaches don't scale, and existing tools focus on finding contacts rather than facilitating meaningful connections.
Solution
Applied rigorous idea validation methodology: user research → problem validation → MVP simulation → user testing → strategic decision making.
Conducted 50+ interviews across Reddit, LinkedIn, and Discord to understand real pain points in professional networking and job search processes.
Used Apollo.io to simulate core product mechanics, then created interactive mockups with v0 for user testing before committing to full development.
What I Did
User Research & Problem Validation
Conducted extensive interviews across multiple platforms to understand job seeker pain points, networking challenges, and existing solution gaps. Validated core problem assumptions before moving to solution development.
MVP Simulation & Testing
Built simulated MVP using Apollo.io to test core networking mechanics, then created interactive prototypes for user testing. Ran trials with 3 users to validate product-market fit assumptions.
Strategic Decision Making
After successful validation, made disciplined decision to shelf the project. While concept showed promise, chose not to pursue consumer company at that time, demonstrating strategic focus and resource allocation discipline.
Results
Problem/Solution Fit
Strong user validation and positive MVP trial results
Process Documentation
Comprehensive documentation of incubation methodology
Strategic Discipline
Disciplined decision to focus resources elsewhere
Process Documentation
MVP Process Overview
Comprehensive overview of the MVP development process and networking approach methodology
Project Overview
Complete project overview covering market analysis, user research, and product strategy
Consumer Survey Analysis
Detailed analysis of consumer survey results and key insights from user research
MVP User Onboarding
User onboarding flow and automated outreach methodology for the MVP testing phase
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