A guy in a Facebook group (Facedev) called me out as a marketer who makes development tutorials. He doesn't seem to like the content I produce, probably because it doesn't go as deep as he wants it to. To be honest, I take it as a compliment.
Why do I take it as a compliment?
Back in 2016 when I was still in college, I worked tirelessly on a website that I thought would be revolutionary: zahividy.mg. Even today, I believe it could have been. However, the truth is that I only understood the technical side of things and not the rest. And believe me, the "rest" was a lot bigger. I will discuss the website in a future post.
I deployed the website, then visited stores and handed out business cards along with information about the platform. I hoped that this blind approach would eventually lead to a boom in popularity after all the hard work. I used to believe that original ideas get shared organically and that ads are only for unsuccessful businesses. Many people still think this way.
It was like preparing for a party, but no one showed up. I ran out of money and energy to pursue the project.
Some might argue that in 2016, Malagasy people were not interested in the internet, and many did not have access to it. Let’s talk about that later.
Here’s the truth: "Having a great product is essential, but without effective marketing, it's like winking at someone in the dark. You know what you're doing, but nobody else does." - Stuart H. Britt
More quotes here
- "In today's crowded marketplace, even the most exceptional products can go unnoticed without marketing. It's the vehicle that drives awareness and puts your offerings in front of the right people."
- "If a tree falls in the forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound? Similarly, if you have an amazing product but no marketing, does it make an impact? Marketing is the catalyst that amplifies your message and ensures your product reaches its intended audience."
- "Marketing is the bridge that connects your product to the people who need it. Don't assume that your exceptional product alone will attract customers. Take action, build awareness, and make your presence known."
- "You can have the most groundbreaking product in the world, but if people don't know about it, it might as well not exist. Marketing is the fuel that ignites the flame of success and propels your product into the limelight."
- "Marketing is not just about selling a product; it's about telling a story, creating desire, and building relationships. Without it, your product will remain hidden, overshadowed by those who understand the power of effective marketing."
- "The belief that a great product will automatically attract customers is a fallacy. Marketing is the tool that helps you cut through the noise, stand out, and showcase why your product is worth their attention."
- "Marketing is the art of making people realize how much they need something they didn't even know they wanted. Don't underestimate its power in bringing your product to the forefront of people's minds."
- "A product without marketing is like a masterpiece locked away in a vault. It may be magnificent, but if nobody sees it, its value is lost. Open the doors with marketing and let the world discover your brilliance."
- "Marketing is the voice that speaks on behalf of your product, telling the world why it's remarkable. Don't rely on silent greatness; let marketing amplify your message and attract the audience you deserve."
Some case studies:
Why do write this?
The insight he shared was great. To become a successful developer, you need resources, such as tutorials, with detailed and deep knowledge about specific technologies. My content just does not align with that and I believe there’s nothing wrong with me nor with him.
Combining developer skills with marketing knowledge is a significant step towards becoming an entrepreneur and many of my content is about tech entrepreneurship backed by development. Is that the right path for you to take? We’ll also talk about that later.
What’s in it for you?
If you have a great idea and the skills to execute it, let's talk about it. By sharing your idea, you can help others facing similar situations while also receiving valuable feedback and promoting your app. Fill out this form if you're interested:
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