Followers on other social media platforms could be super helpful when launching a new product. Is there a benefit to growing a following here on PH prior to a launch?
Not in direct conversions I believe. But it is good channel to spread the word out in general. Followers might upvote even without seeing what your product is just because you supported them. I think it adds bit to your brand if you are able to get product of day/week tags etc based on strength of your network.
Yes, I feel they are significant. Followers of a user on Product Hunt will receive a notification when the user will "Hunt", "Launch", or "Start" a discussion. Further, it also helps in building creditability.
I believe it only matters for bringing attention to your name. Following and being followed, replying to and being replied to- when you launch your product users might see "Oh I've seen that name" and upvote
I believe the followers play a significant role in your journey to launch on the Product Hunt. The upvotes matters and if you have good number of followers they might upvote which may help your rankings.