Thanks Tanveer. I always appreciate your kind words of support. Your comment points out the importance of focusing on those you lead rather than upon yourself. When it comes to messaging, I’ve always said that a message that only meets the needs of the messenger isn’t really a message – it’s a mandate. As you remind us, neither is it leadership. Thanks Tanveer.   

In the interests of being timely, relevant, and clear about my thoughts on your piece, I just have one thing to say  . . .  bravo.

Not only do you provide a clear map of how to effectively deliver a message to your audience, but you once again demonstrate how leadership is not about focusing on what you care about, but on what matters to those you lead.

No thanks necessary – happy to help. Best of luck to you Mahdad.

Thanks for the quick response Mike. These are great tips as well. Much appreciated! I’ll keep you posted as I fine tune for  product-market fit.

Hi Mahdad:

I don’t typically give specific advice via this forum for the simple reason that I don’t have enough information about your individual situation and fear that offering advice in a vacuum is a dangerous thing. That said, when it comes to market definition all the methods you mentioned will help you discern the validity of a market. Additionally, I would focus on the depth, breadth and potential for growth of the market (total market size, search volume, competitive landscape, etc.). Spend some time looking at how difficult it will be to create an engaged community around your content. What does the existing conversation look like on the blogs and social networks. I would also look at delivery methods that include assessing partnerships that could help you increase velocity out of the gate. I would also closely examine the cost of acquiring and developing new customers. Lastly, I would ensure your content has a perceived and actual high benefit value to the end user. I know this was generic, but I hope it helps in some way. 

Hi Meredith:

Your comment really resonates with me. There’s an old saying that people have a deep need to “feel felt” which lends credence to yet another old saying: “people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” Thanks for sharing Meredith.

Hi Bruce:

Thanks for your comment and the kind words.