2025 is around the corner, and building a community is a must 💯 If you are a founder struggling to bring your users together, here are ten tweets/threads that you shouldn't miss 🎯

PS: I handpicked these and often refer to them when I need inspiration! 

THREAD ↓

1/ @gregisenberg knows the formula of community building like no other on Twitter. 

Here's his 101 take: 

https://x.com/gregisenberg/status/1292274124119838726

2/ Engaging with like-minded folks is what makes a community successful. 

Not how active or big it is!

h/t to @wes_kao for this:

https://x.com/wes_kao/status/1338892326190592000

3/ Don't confuse building an audience vs. building a community. 

@rrhoover pointing out the critical difference:

https://x.com/rrhoover/status/1355639902935736320

4/ In community building, nothing is more important than creating value for others. 

@eriktorenberg details it out in a perfect way:

https://x.com/eriktorenberg/status/1305737266887757824

5/ Don't discard the curious minds, aka beginners. 

Listen to the master of community building @DavidSpinks:

https://x.com/DavidSpinks/status/1340661770151731202

6/ @gregisenberg is back, and this time, he warns you about what kills a community. 

Avoid these all the time:

https://x.com/gregisenberg/status/1631657300438970370

7/ Founders often miss the value of community when they build their startups. 

@shl reminds you how powerful community building is for a startup:

https://x.com/shl/status/1262775672675561472

8/ Don't start with the "how to build a community" part. 

@rosiesherry says instead try this:

https://x.com/rosiesherry/status/1341694504521359360

9/ You don't learn building a community by going to a school, you learn by actually building one. 

S/o to @naval for this reminder:

https://x.com/naval/status/1189444653059174401

10/ There is no other expert than @ljin18 who knows everything about the creator economy and community building. 

So many lessons in this thread: 

https://x.com/ljin18/status/1187092203241263104

If you are a founder who made it this far, that means community is your top priority. Let me help you and take it to the next level in 2025 💪🏼

Let's work together and build something long-lasting. DM me 📥

For everyone else, appreciate you reading 🙏🏼

Building a Strong Community in 2025

I hunted over 140+ products on @ProductHunt + advised many founders from early-stage to VC-backed to bootstrappers launch their startups smoothly and successfully!

Here are 5 don'ts that you need to focus on which require min effort but deliver max impact on the launch day 🧵

Don't crave upvotes—no one remembers how many upvotes you get. Instead, crave feedback. Inputs from the community are more valuable than numbers!

Have a mindset to become better - from a founder's standpoint and your product - only feedback makes this possible.

Don't optimize—every distribution channel matters. You never know where you will get people's attention.

Focus on your social, email lists(only those of people you know), and communities you are part of. Observe where you get better results and double down on that channel.

Don't overthink—instead, be authentic. Overthinking wastes time, and on launch day, every minute is precious. 

Shoot your shot, aggressively build in public, and express emotions, both highs and lows. More importantly, be transparent with your audience—people appreciate that.

Don't target one niche—this is for startups who haven't reached PMF - PH is where you attract all sorts of people including your target niche.

But an open mind will help you pick signals from other niches. You never know who is going to say I want this product.

Don't spam people—even though you may have good intentions when reaching out to random folks, it's not a good practice. 

Always rely on folks you know and spread the organic reach - family & friends, early believers, existing customers, the audience you built, investors, etc.

Maximizing Startup Launch Impact: 5 Key Don'ts

Big feature update from @GuestLabAI

Now, users can add custom inputs like episode theme, guest persona, and target audience, so the research is catered to your needs!

Join the waitlist if you want to see this in action 💪🏼

https://guestlab.ai/

Building a career in tech is hard - when everyone is competing for the prize, it's easy to get distracted and tough to stay focused on differentiating yourself!

@DanWestgarth, COO of @deel, joined @TheUU_Podcast and dropped which 5 qualities make a leader great!

Thread 🧵

Treat people well: People rarely forget negative experiences, so always provide good service and products and maintain positive relationships.

The best leaders in tech are obsessed with customers and customers only. Make every interaction count.

Community building: A supportive community can make business endeavors much more successful in the long-term.

There's power to people who bring people together. You may not see the short-term results, but a community is a differentiator.

Networking plays a crucial role, as even seemingly distant connections can have a significant impact on your career and business.

The right people help you do the right things. Surround yourself with those who open opportunities, and you do the same to others.

Show care and thought: Whether in business or personal relationships, showing respect and thoughtfulness can go a long way in building trust and loyalty.

People sense that widely.

Convert weakness into strengths: Dan discusses his realization that he possesses an "immigrant mentality" despite not coming from a developing country.

He encouraged embracing the mindset of immigrants who work hard, adapt, and strive for success in a new environment.

Get the full scoop of the episode here:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dan-westgarth-how-to-establish-yourself-as-a-leader-in-tech/id1643565102?i=1000617280956

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7MN1CkRJGJbjVFdnp1TEI7?si=Sz1qfF5QSLKpq44ghtaF-A

Watch it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7gGSZtazTE

Qualities of a Great Tech Leader

Being an introvert is a superpower! They have a quite strength, a focused mind and a systematic approach of doing things!

Often underestimated, introverts have shaped the course of history!

Here are 15 introverts who made a profound influence on the world 🧵

1. Bill Gates: The co-founder of Microsoft, known for his introverted nature, revolutionized personal computing and became a leading philanthropist.

2. Neil Armstrong: The introverted astronaut who took humanity's first steps on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission.

3. J.K. Rowling: The introverted author of the Harry Potter series, which captivated readers of all ages and became a global phenomenon.

4. Warren Buffett: The introverted billionaire investor known for his shrewd financial acumen and long-term investment strategies.

5. Larry Page and Sergey Brin: The introverted co-founders of Google, which transformed the way we access information.

6. Eleanor Roosevelt: The former First Lady of the United States was known for her introverted nature and her impactful work as a diplomat, writer, and activist.

7. Albert Einstein: The introverted physicist who developed the theory of relativity and reshaped our understanding of the universe.

8. Steven Spielberg: The introverted filmmaker behind iconic movies like "E.T." and "Jurassic Park," who has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

9. Rosa Parks: The introverted civil rights activist who played a pivotal role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the broader civil rights movement.

10. Vincent van Gogh: The introverted artist whose post-impressionist paintings have left an enduring legacy in the world of art.

11. Billie Eilish: The introverted singer-songwriter who has redefined the music industry and won multiple Grammy Awards.

12. Isaac Newton: The introverted physicist and mathematician who laid the foundation for classical mechanics and calculus.

13. Meryl Streep: The introverted actress known for her exceptional talent and numerous Academy Award nominations.

14. Amelia Earhart: The introverted aviator who became the first female pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

15. Shigeru Miyamoto: The introverted video game designer behind iconic games like Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda.

Regardless of who you are, if you read it till now, I hope you got some inspiration.

Use it and take action 🚀

The Power of Introverts: 15 Influential Figures

We all know that Steve Jobs revolutionized 6 industries - computers, animated movies, music, phones, tablets, digital publishing.

But there is a 7th hidden area that very few talk about - He changed how products are presented!

Check some iconic keynote presentations of Steve 👇🏼

Introducing the Original Macintosh in 1984:

https://youtu.be/Onj8Mbc_-NA

https://youtu.be/1tQ5XwvjPmA?si=oONVl74V9XoFBl6_

Introducing the iMac in 1998:

https://youtu.be/BiWd8ujtK5k

Introducing the Think Different campaign in 1997:

https://youtu.be/FDD5G2_6hdA?si=Hud_Ih2kpuyxPc2l

Introducing the Original iPod in 2001:

https://youtu.be/Mc_FiHTITHE

Introducing the iTunes Store in 2003:

https://youtu.be/NF9o46zK5Jo

Introducing the Original iPhone in 2007:

https://youtu.be/VQKMoT-6XSg?si=fpIHKtSp9WOjtZep

Introducing the Original MacBook Air in 2008:

https://youtu.be/i9XU6wk_mWY

Introducing the iPhone 3G in 2008:

https://youtu.be/AHolDv1plk0

Introducing the Original iPad in 2010:

https://youtu.be/zZtWlSDvb_k?si=2vTVoN0UEUkQdHAr

Introducing the iPhone 4 with FaceTime in 2010:

https://youtu.be/UjUd0VSM2RA?si=0m7jPV9Nin-3GPsT

On the Antennagate issue:

https://youtu.be/Q-UgUnMt6Ds

Introducing the iPad 2 in 2011.

Steve talks about Apple's DNA = great products are built in the intersection of technology and liberal arts:

https://youtu.be/GEjHXUHRE5U?si=jlv6H67D4JBX47MG

Just five months before his death, Steve Jobs introduced iCloud:

https://youtu.be/LPMjUtfQPks

I hope this thread gave you a taste of greatness and inspired you today.

If there is a keynote that I missed, please add them to it here.

Thanks for reading 🙏🏼

Steve Jobs: Revolutionizing Product Presentations

IQ alone in startups doesn't cut it anymore. The greatest founders know it's all about EQ.

Learn how 12 exceptional founders and VCs harnessed EQ to create a legacy that extends far beyond products and profits, leaving an indelible mark on the startup ecosystem 💫

What is EQ:

Emotional Intelligence – the ability to understand and manage one's emotions and empathize with others – emerges as a powerhouse trait in startup founders.

Why EQ matters:

EQ fuels startups more than IQ. The heart-centered leadership ignites success. EQ fosters effective collaboration, nurtures a positive work culture, and inspires teams to go the extra mile.

@ArlanWasHere's empathetic understanding and determination to support underrepresented founders profoundly impact diversity in the startup ecosystem. @Backstage_Cap champions EQ-driven inclusivity more than any VC firm in the world.

@melaniecanva exemplifies EQ-driven teamwork. Understanding strengths fosters learning and collaboration, propelling @canva's meteoric rise as a design platform. Melanie's commitment to accessibility also led to Canva's "Design for Every Age" initiative.

@bchesky reshaped the marketplace industry with EQ. By empathizing with travelers and hosts, Airbnb creates a platform rooted in human connection, bridging cultures and creating meaningful experiences.

@satyanadella's empathetic leadership style reinvigorated Microsoft's culture. His emphasis on inclusivity and empathy transformed the tech giant into a more agile, innovative, and collaborative organization. His EQ-fueled approach paved the way for Microsoft's growth.

@alexisohanian invented EQ-rich investing at @sevensevensix. His genuine support for founders' growth and understanding of their needs exemplifies the role of EQ in building meaningful investor-founder relationships and encourages founders to build great things.

Sarah Leary and Nirav Tolia, co-founders of @Nextdoor, prioritized focus on creating a supportive community culture, both internally and externally. Nextdoor's growth reflects their emphasis on community. which led to initiatives like "Neighbors for Racial Justice."

@ericries' EQ-driven approach to the Lean Startup methodology emphasizes rapid adaptation and learning from failures. His emphasis on understanding customer feedback and market dynamics fosters an agile startup environment.

Whitney Wolfe Herd of @bumble embraces EQ-driven growth. Her commitment to empowering women, creating a safe online dating environment, fostering safe connections, and supporting social causes amplifies Bumble's impact and resonates with users worldwide.

@eldsjal's ability to empathize with artists, users, and his team, enabled @Spotify's evolution into a music streaming giant. The "Wrapped" feature celebrates users' unique musical journeys and creates a deeper connection between users and music.

@annewoj23 guides 23andMe's genetic exploration, bridging science and empathy with EQ more than IQ. In 23andMe's community forums, where users connect over shared genetic traits and health experiences, she interacts directly with customers, building trust.

@reidhoffman's EQ-driven commitment to career development led to LinkedIn's "Mentor" feature, connecting professionals for guidance. His approach emphasizes meaningful connections and career growth.

@jessicaalba's EQ-infused commitment to ethical products resonates with conscious consumers, shaping The Honest Company's path. Her transparency led to "Honestly" blog, where she shares personal stories, fostering trust with customers.

Startups thrive not just on technology but on human connection.

Emotional Intelligence serves as the linchpin for founders and venture capitalists who forge strong bonds, navigate uncertainties, and cultivate meaningful growth.

The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Startups

.@shriyanevatia is one of my fav community builders out there. Her passion for the founder and VC community is contagious!

She was also one of the first guests on the Undefeated Underdogs podcast, and here's what you can learn from her decade-long journey in space 🧵

1/ Your personal is also your professional:

💫 Following one's curiosity and taking action towards personal passions can lead to a successful career in the community space.

For Shriya, her work helping women accelerate their careers with @violet_society led to one of her biggest opportunities: working directly on @beondeck with @eriktorenberg.

Recognizing the potential of communities and their ability to foster belonging and create profitable ventures led to her impressive career opportunities.

2/ Who you know matters:

🌐 Industry exposure and networking are crucial for personal and professional growth in the community field.

It's especially a small space right now; knowing the right people is crucial to your job description!

Build community and network in parallel.

3/ It's all about the long game:

🌱 Patience and playing the long game are essential when starting and growing a community from scratch. It takes time to build trust and to have people tell you what they need.

Stay calm and keep at it!

4/ Start with an intention:

🎤 Building and nurturing communities isn't just about hosting events.

It requires you to genuinely show care as a servant leader and value-giver. People around you can sense that and replicate what you do which helps to build a successful community.

This is not it. @shriyanevatia dropped so many gems in my podcast. For the curious, here's the full podcast episode with the links below:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shriya-nevatia-how-to-make-a-career-in-the-community-space/id1643565102?i=1000583319219

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0MRXXxXyPp2pb1MJiCEDZ0

Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GO_L_mUHu10

The Journey of a Community Builder

12 growth hacks that helped my SaaS product go from $0 to sold 💰

PS: I implemented all these while working at a full-time job, so they are minimum in effort but maximum in impact 💯

Follow the thread 🧵

1.  Launch multiple times:

Build a launch calendar and target multiple platforms over the course of time.

Launch on Twitter, @producthunt, @IndieHackers, @reddit, Hacker News, etc.

This increases the chances of new people trying your product/service.

Some tips:

https://twitter.com/5harath/status/1363856562004107267

2. Delight user by design:

Users love little things and attention to detail. So delight them by launching a dark mode, moving the menu to the bottom for mobile, have confetti when they finish a flow - ultimately making their return to use the product.

https://twitter.com/5harath/status/1392211093380997121

3. Play with pricing:

Instead of offering a free trial - charge $1. This way, you can identify serious users.

Show how much users can save by comparing your price with your competitors.

Give options to users to pay for features as add-ons. Customize prices accordingly.

4. Use social proof:

People buy from people. Convert users to customers using positive testimonials.

Position it on your landing page, directly beneath CTAs and marketing emails.

Use tools like @shoutout_io to display authentic tweets from Twitter and other social platforms.

5. Launch influencer program:

One of the most incredible growth hacks I have ever encountered when building Shoutout is onboarding influencers and using their social capital to buy in more people.

I would go one extra step and incentivize them by sharing referral revenue.

6. Build in public:

I can't stress how effective growth becomes when you build in public.

Building a narrative - share progress - revenue numbers, signups, screenshots of future features, and celebrate paid customers.

Ex: https://twitter.com/5harath/status/1496603863549456386

Also if you are a beginner struggling how to build in public, I wrote a small guide for you: https://twitter.com/5harath/status/1386708332329660416

7. Experiment with copywriting:

Make copy changes to your landing page, CTAs, and emails. But, again, be short, crisp, and authentic.

@harrydry has tons of tips and examples on how to convert people using great copy.

Find out more here: https://marketingexamples.com/copywriting

8. Send contextual emails:

- Increase trial signups by notifying users when their trials are about to end.

- Send a summary of new feature updates with screenshots and gifs

- Activate users by offering discounts to celebrate special days like Mother's Day.

9. Build case studies and show use cases:

Sometimes you need to show the potential of your product, and a great way is to bring real success stories from existing customers.

Also, show multiple use cases and how other founders/startups benefit from using your product.

10. Use "Powered By" to boost leads:

If your product is embeddable, like a live chat, popups, or forms, then make sure it is branded at the bottom by saying "Powered By X".

This way, you backlink your product and invite leads from your customers' websites.

Example:

11. Use referral links in the invoice emails:

Customize invoice emails by adding a referral link at the bottom. This way, you are directly encouraging users to refer others.

Make it easy for them to share the link with others. And show them how much they can save on referrals.

12. Add a pre-recorded demo video to your website:

People love to check demo videos that are < a minute. Tools like @useloom or @TellaHQ make it ridiculously easy to record one.

Be authentic and creative in the video. Show your face so they can connect with you instantly.

12 Growth Hacks for SaaS Product Success

If you are a podcaster with video podcasts and figuring out how to create short clips, I got you covered.

After thorough exploration, I've managed to identify the top 4 AI tools that I firmly believe can take your podcast to the next level 🧵

Tool: @OpusClip

Benefit: Generates ten clips with viral score, title, and description.

URL: https://www.opus.pro/

Tool: Munch

Benefit: It generates the best clips from your video based on the trending posts from selected social platforms.

URL: https://www.getmunch.com/

Tool: @vidyoai

Benefit: The tool offers different templates to create short clips.

URL: https://vidyo.ai/

Tool: @AutoPodFM's Social Clip Creator

Benefit: This Adobe Premiere Pro plugin will automatically create clips using in/out points of your video.

URL: https://www.autopod.fm/