6
First paying customer? Way harder than I expected as a solo founder.
r/indiehackers
7/1/2025
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Startuplist.ing | https://startuplist.ing | Directory/Listing | Startup directory where founders can list their products |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Difficulty in getting first paying customer
- Lack of conversions despite outreach efforts
- Building visibility for a new product
Problems to Solve:
- Converting interest into paying customers
- Establishing initial market presence
- Validating product-market fit
Potential Solutions:
- Publicly sharing build process
- Listing on directories to increase visibility
- Reframing messaging based on user feedback
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Public building (sharing development process)
- Directory listings for visibility
- Messaging refinement based on feedback
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Cold DMs
- Launching on Twitter
- Engaging in niche communities
- Directory listings (e.g., Startuplist.ing)
Monetization & Product:
- Need to validate product value (implied by difficulty getting first payment)
- Importance of feedback-driven messaging
User Engagement:
- Consistent public presence
- Community engagement in niche forums