Path TO Value Discovery & Evaluation
3

Hand Raiser

"I Need Help"

Deep dive into The Hand Raiser Stage of The Value Path: Understanding how people signal readiness for expert guidance.

~3 minute deep dive into the Hand Raiser stage

Interactive Presentation

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What's Really Happening

The Hand Raiser stage represents a pivotal moment where people actively signal readiness for expert guidance. They've moved beyond independent researchβ€”they're now thinking, "I think this could work for us, but I need professional help to evaluate it properly for our specific situation." This isn't necessarily immediate purchase intent, but a clear signal they're ready for substantive conversation.

Key Insight

Hand Raisers want expert guidance and collaborative evaluation, not sales pitches or qualification interrogationβ€”they're ready for substantive partnership conversations.

Quick Recognition

What They Think

  • "I think this could work for us, but I need expert guidance to evaluate it properly"
  • "I want to have a real conversation with someone who knows what they're doing"

What They Feel

  • Confidence in general approach combined with uncertainty about specific application
  • Readiness to engage in substantive conversations with real experts

What They Do

  • Reach out directly to request consultation or expert guidance
  • Prepare specific questions and scenarios rather than requesting generic information

What Works and What Doesn't

🚩 Red Flags

  • Qualification Interrogation: Treating hand-raising as lead qualification opportunity
  • Premature Solution Pitching: Jumping into demos before understanding context
  • Generic Response Templates: Standardized processes instead of personalized guidance
  • Pressure for Commitment: Creating urgency when thorough evaluation is needed

βœ… Green Flags

  • Expert Accessibility: Access to knowledgeable practitioners offering genuine guidance
  • Context-Specific Support: Understanding their situation before recommending
  • Collaborative Evaluation: Working together to assess fit
  • Patience with Process: Respecting their need for stakeholder involvement

The Value Path Approach

  • β†’ Create Conditions for Expert Guidance: Provide immediate access to knowledgeable practitioners.
  • β†’ Enable Collaborative Evaluation: Focus on working together to assess fit rather than selling solutions.
  • β†’ Provide Honest Assessment: Offer realistic perspective on both opportunities and challenges.
  • β†’ Recognize Authentic Progression Signals: Watch for increasing conviction and questions about implementation.

Progression Trigger

The shift from "I need expert guidance to evaluate this" to "I'm convinced this is right for us, and now I need to build organizational support and implementation capability."