Startup founders should prioritize creating viral content, according to Roy Lee of Cluely. He emphasized the importance of focusing on distribution, especially for those not involved in deep tech. Lee highlighted that viral marketing is not for everyone, as it requires a unique skill set that not all individuals possess.
Lee’s insights stem from his success with Cluely’s AI assistant, which gained popularity through a viral marketing campaign. Despite facing some setbacks, the company managed to secure significant funding and establish itself in the competitive AI assistant market. Lee attributes his ability to go viral to his controversial and authentic approach, which may not resonate with everyone.
In today’s social media landscape, attention is the most valuable currency, according to Lee. He believes that traditional notions of reputation are evolving, and being extreme, authentic, and personal are key to standing out. However, the effectiveness of this strategy remains uncertain, as Lee prefers not to disclose specific revenue or user numbers for Cluely.
