Here's how you can enhance your problem-solving skills by networking with other entrepreneurs.

This is definitely a key element of being a successful entrepreneur. In all my 26 startups, I always had a group of "friends" that I could rely on. They were people who knew my industry and who understood where I wanted to be (in general, they had very similar visions and values). I could call on them, have lunch with them and ask any question I wanted (they could do the same obviously). Sometimes, I would just invite them to lunch without an agenda just to build a better relationship. This has helped me tremendously in all my ventures and beyond.

A good entrepreneur keeps their head down and just builds. A great entrepreneur gets out there and builds their network. So important on many levels. Some thoughts on this: ? Get Out There. Whether it’s at industry events, in entrepreneur clubs, or hanging out in online forums, surround yourself with people who get what you’re going through. ? Share and Learn. These connections are like gold mines for fresh ideas. They offer new perspectives that can help you crack tough problems in creative ways. ? Build Your Support Network. Over time, these relationships can turn into your go-to crew for advice and feedback. Happy to dive deeper here. Feel free to DM.

Building rapport with other entrepreneurs isn’t just about expanding your network; it’s about finding those who understand the unique pressures of being in the early stages of a startup. Whether through industry events or online communities, these connections become your sounding board. As an early-stage founder, I’ve found that these relationships are invaluable when you need fresh insights or just a bit of moral support. Over time, these connections turn into trusted allies who can help you navigate the ups and downs of startup life.

Claro, pero aquí va una bomba: hacer networking solo te da más personas a quienes preguntar, no respuestas mágicas. La clave está en aplicar lo que aprendes, no en acumular contactos. Así que, menos charlas y más acción; tus problemas se resolverán mientras te ensucias las manos. ?Suerte!

One of my favorite aspects of professional growth is networking and sharing experiences. As the saying goes, "Networking is marketing—it's about showcasing yourself, your uniqueness, and what you stand for." It's a two-way street: you share your stories while also listening to the experiences of others. This exchange fosters connections and enriches our collective understanding.

Sharing your experiences isn’t just about seeking advice; it’s about contributing to a community where everyone learns from each other’s journeys. In the world of education, for instance, the challenges I face can often be unique, but discussing them with others has led to unexpected solutions. When you share both your successes and stumbles, you invite others to offer perspectives that can help you see things differently, ultimately leading to more informed decisions.

Collaborative brainstorming is powerful, especially when you’re an early-stage founder. You might be used to making decisions solo, but there’s immense value in bringing together a group of entrepreneurs to generate ideas. In my experience, pooling diverse thoughts can spark creative solutions that you might not arrive at on your own. This collective brainstorming not only expands your problem-solving toolkit but also fosters a sense of shared purpose that can be incredibly motivating.

It’s easy to fall into familiar patterns, especially in tech and education. That’s why connecting with entrepreneurs in other fields, like media, has been so valuable for me. These discussions have opened my eyes to new ways of thinking, especially when it comes to marketing and networking. By applying these fresh ideas to my work, I’ve been able to reach a wider audience and build stronger connections—things I might not have achieved by sticking to the same old strategies.

The quote that comes to mind for me is - "Fools learn from experience. I prefer to learn from the experience of others" - Otto von Bismarck. *Side note: I had 3 dachshunds growing up, all named 'Otto Von Berg' I, II, III consecutively* Getting back to the point - It's critical when problem solving (that's entrepreneurship at it's core) that you get our there and talk to others. Learn from their experience and often times you'll solve your own problem JUST by talking through it with someone else.

The advice and experiences shared within my network have been game-changers for me in edtech. When I’m facing a challenge, reaching out to others who’ve been through similar situations often provides me with practical solutions I hadn’t considered. Whether it’s figuring out how to scale effectively or learning from their mistakes, this collective wisdom helps me navigate the complexities of growing a business. It’s like having a group of mentors on call, ready to guide you through the tough spots.

Google wouldn't be the company that it is today without bringing others on to advise. They had a brilliant founding team, but only scaled because of their ability to connect and recruit the brightest minds. Same is true for early stage companies. #network