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Home/r/SideProject/2025-07-21/#first-paying-customer-reddit-saas-growth
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I got my first paying customer today using Reddit.

r/SideProject
7/21/2025

Content Summary

A developer built a Chrome extension called Narrow to manage LinkedIn conversations, landing their first $10 customer through Reddit. Key strategies included solving specific pain points without funding, using Reddit for organic growth, and integrating Dodo Payments for easy transactions. The post sparked discussions about payment solutions and growth tactics.

Opinion Analysis

Mainstream opinions celebrate the organic growth achievement and seek payment solution details. Controversy exists regarding post authenticity with accusations of ChatGPT-generated content. Key debates focus on:

  1. Growth validation vs. formulaic storytelling
  2. Individual vs. business payment solutions
  3. Community-driven development vs. professional marketing
  4. Minimum viable product simplicity vs. feature completeness

SAAS TOOLS

SaaSURLCategoryFeatures/Notes
Narrowusenarrow.comLinkedIn ManagementLabel conversations, Track replies, Follow up leads (Chrome extension)
Dodo Payments[Not provided]Payment GatewayEasy onboarding for individuals, $100 minimum payout
Software on the Websoftwareontheweb.comProduct Launch PlatformSoftware curation and launch services

USER NEEDS

Pain Points:

  • Overwhelmed by LinkedIn DMs
  • Difficulty tracking sales conversations
  • Losing potential leads

Problems to Solve:

  • Managing LinkedIn conversations effectively
  • Following up on leads systematically
  • Collecting payments as an individual without registered business

Potential Solutions:

  • Chrome extension for conversation management
  • Simple payment gateway integration for individuals
  • Community-driven product validation

GROWTH FACTORS

Effective Strategies:

  • Solving specific pain points with minimal viable product
  • Organic growth through Reddit community engagement

Marketing & Acquisition:

  • Zero advertising budget
  • Leveraging Reddit posts for customer acquisition
  • Third-party platform listings (Software on the Web)

Monetization & Product:

  • $10 initial pricing validation
  • Individual-friendly payment solutions (Dodo Payments)
  • Fast iteration based on user feedback

User Engagement:

  • Direct interaction with early adopters
  • Community validation through Reddit discussions
  • Transparent development updates