1. Domain expert in the industry
I contacted a member of the Best Buy Geek Squad because I knew he would be knowledgeable about the product I am producing (temperature regulating Iphone and Android cases). He is a technical expert on anything electronic related, so he could really help me exploit my opportunity.
2. Expert on my Market
I contacted the manager of an Apple store since his customers will be my customers. Iphone and Android users are my target market. He was able to tell me the general demographics of the majority of the customers. I can apply this information to help me exploit my opportunity.
3. Important Supplier to My Industry
I contacted the manager of a Best Buy store since I think Best Buy would be a great retail chain to sell my product. We discussed where my potential product would be located in the store, how we could feature it so more people would notice it, etc.
For everyone that I contacted, I found contact names via Google, and then searched on LinkedIn for their contact info.
I explained to everyone the idea for my product, and they all thought I had a solid idea. They recommended that I focus on only a couple regions in the U.S. first where the largest market is. They each thought southern Florida, Georgia, and California would be the most successful off the bat. They advised that after I establish a following for my product, then I could expand to other regions in the U.S. and then eventually abroad.
This experience definitely differed from my networking experiences in the past because this is the first time I sought out people who could give me specific information that I can apply to a tangible product. Before, I sought out people who seemed like they could give me helpful insight, but this time I actually researched the people before contacting them. I will research more like I did here for any future networking events.
Analeis,
ReplyDeleteGreat idea pitching your product idea to the relevant people. It was tough for me to just simply contact these people out of no where but I think it paid off. I think we came to near the same conclusion also. if you would like to read my blog go to: http://mitchallenent3003.blogspot.com/
Thanks,
Mitch
Hi Analeis! Great post. Good job in choosing relevant people that would definitely help in expanding your business. It's definitely helpful to get ideas from people who have so much experience in the industry, and it's great that they thought you had a solid idea as well. Here is a link to my blog if you want to check it out: http://morganjohnsonblog.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteHi Analeis! Looks like you contacted some people who were very relevant to your idea. I liked that you included that you researched a bit about these people before talking to them- that's a great idea, and something I'll be doing before I network again! Your idea sounds very cool, I know I'd love a case that could keep my iPhone cool while I was tanning by the beach or pool. You can check out my blog here: http://nicmcq.blogspot.com/
ReplyDeleteHello Analeis,
ReplyDeleteI absolutely love your idea. I really hope you pursue this concept to production and distribution. I have experienced both ends of the spectrum. I have been on the beach or have left my phone in the car where it overheated to the point that I could not even make a phone call. That could be a dangerous situation if I had to make an emergency call. I think you are on the right track based on the experts that you consulted with about your idea. I say, go for it on this one. I will be a customer.If you want to take a look at my elevator pitch check out my blog at http://9to5isoverrated.blogspot.com/2016/03/elevator-pitch-3.html
Analeis, it looks like you were able to choose some people who knew a lot about the business that you're trying to create here. This should've given you a lot of useful information that you'll be able to use to enhance your business. Unfortunately, I didn't have enough time to complete this assignment so I don't have a link to share; I wish I had because it appears as if it was very beneficial for you.
ReplyDelete