When sampling a new product to people, the worst thing you can hear is “that’s good.”
“That’s okay” or “that’s not bad” or “that’s good” is the wrong answer. While hearing “that sucks” tells you what you likely already know, hearing “that’s good” will lull you into going to market prematurely. Huge mistake, especially if you are sampling it to friends or family, because they’ll lie to not hurt your feelings. Even most strangers, if they know you made it.
Until you hear “That is fantastic! Absolutely awesome! OMG, where do I get it? Take my money right now!”… your job is not done. It’s not that hard to make an absolutely amazing product, that’s where the Art lies. Find it. Don’t settle for anything less.
Did I always hit it in all the 150 products I introduced to the market? Oh heck no, that’s why I know this.
One absolutely amazing product, however, was a tofu salad with dill, dried minced onion, salt, and lemon juice called Cottage Salad. It was a cult hit, especially with people who “hate tofu.” One that wasn’t was Hemp Hummus. Oh well. Live and learn.
