Source: SparkToro by Rand Fishkin. Read the original article
TL;DR Summary of The Evolution of “Make Something People Want”
The classic advice to “Make something people want” remains foundational but is now incomplete in today’s saturated market. Simply fulfilling a market need no longer guarantees success due to intense competition for attention. Modern creators must focus on making products or content that people want to talk about, ensuring organic amplification and engagement. This shift helps navigate the noisy landscape where being wanted isn’t enough.
Optimixed’s Overview: How Modern Creators Can Stand Out Beyond Basic Demand
The Limitations of Traditional Startup Wisdom
Paul Graham’s famous startup mantra, “Make something people want,” set a vital benchmark for product-market fit and early success. However, as markets evolved and competition intensified, simply meeting demand no longer guaranteed growth or visibility.
Why “Wanted” Isn’t Enough Anymore
- Millions of companies now offer products or content that fulfill real needs.
- The rise of entertainment and outrage-driven platforms has fragmented attention spans and increased competition.
- Being wanted does not automatically translate to user engagement or viral reach.
The New Paradigm: Make Something People Want to Talk About
To thrive today, entrepreneurs and creators must:
- Validate genuine market desire to ensure their offering aligns with user needs.
- Focus on social amplification by creating hooks that encourage discussion, sharing, and organic promotion.
- Answer the critical question: “Who will amplify this and why?”
This approach adjusts the original advice to fit modern realities, helping products and creators break through the noise and capture lasting attention.
