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Your idea for an influencer vetting platform falls into a 'Minimal Signal' category. This means there isn't a lot of existing market activity for similar products, which could indicate a very niche problem or one that isn't considered pressing enough by potential users. With only 2 similar products found, confidence is low that this is a high-demand area. The average engagement (comments) on similar products is also low. There's no use or buy signal, meaning nobody mentioned using or buying similar products in their comments. Given the minimal signal, it's crucial to validate demand before investing heavily in development. You're currently in a phase where proving there's a real need is paramount.

Recommendations

1. Begin by actively engaging in online communities where potential customers (brands and influencers) gather. Present your concept and carefully gauge their interest. Frame it as a solution to a pain point they experience, such as wasted marketing spend or reputational risk. This will provide initial qualitative data on the potential demand.
2. Offer to manually solve the vetting problem for 2-3 potential customers. This could involve researching influencer backgrounds, checking for brand alignment, and providing a summary report. This hands-on approach will give you direct insights into the challenges and needs of your target market, as well as provide you with testimonials.
3. Create a concise and engaging explainer video showcasing the platform's value proposition and core features. Track the completion rate of the video to measure audience interest. If many people start but don't finish watching, it might indicate that your messaging isn't resonating or the problem isn't perceived as significant.
4. Implement a waiting list and ask for a small, non-refundable deposit to join. This helps gauge genuine interest and commitment. People willing to put down money (even a small amount) are far more likely to be serious about using your platform.
5. Based on the discussion summary of similar products, the similar 'Influencer Brand Fit' tool had someone share a link to the product hunt post, and one user said they would try it. Consider launching on Product Hunt to gather feedback and early adopters.
6. Set a strict deadline: If you can't find 5 genuinely interested people willing to provide a deposit within 3 weeks, it's a strong signal to reconsider the idea or significantly pivot. This prevents you from wasting time and resources on a low-potential project.

Questions

1. What are the biggest pain points for brands when selecting influencers, and how does your vetting process directly address those specific concerns in a way that existing solutions don't?
2. How will you incentivize influencers to opt-in to your vetting platform and provide accurate, real-time data, especially considering the potential for negative findings?
3. Given the low engagement and minimal buy-in signals observed in similar products, what unique marketing or outreach strategies will you employ to generate initial traction and demonstrate value to both brands and influencers?