Being Nice To Other Founders: Kindness an Underappreciated Trait

As an entrepreneur, I receive between two to three cold calls almost every day. Some are spam, some are genuine attempts to connect, and many are from startup founders pitching their businesses or business development professionals seeking new opportunities. These calls often come at inconvenient times, leaving me feeling frustrated and annoyed.

How dare someone interrupt my day and take my time for granted, right?

But then I remember something crucial: they are just doing their jobs, trying to grow their startups, just like I once did. Recently, I received a call from a founder who wanted me to test their software. My initial reaction was one of irritation. However, I decided to suppress my frustration and listen to what they had to say. This experience made me reflect on my journey and the countless acts of kindness I've received along the way.

The Dual Nature of Cold Calls

Cold calls are a double-edged sword. On one side, they can be intrusive and annoying, especially when they disrupt important tasks or personal time. On the other side, they are a vital tool for entrepreneurs trying to grow their businesses. As someone who has made countless cold calls myself, I understand the courage and effort it takes to reach out to strangers.

The Power of Empathy

Empathy plays a significant role in how we respond to cold calls. When I choose to respond with empathy instead of irritation, I open the door to potential opportunities. The founder who called me might have an innovative solution that could benefit my business. By listening and offering support, I might help them achieve their dreams.

Reflecting on my journey, I recall the numerous times strangers have shown me kindness and support.

When I first came to this country, I knew no one and had nothing. Yet, I was able to build my startup, XENA, thanks to the generosity and encouragement of people who had nothing to gain from helping me. Their support was invaluable, and it taught me the importance of paying it forward.

Balancing Hustle with Kindness

In today's fast-paced business world, the emphasis is often on hustling, grinding, and making tough decisions. While these qualities are essential for success, it's equally important to remember the value of kindness and empathy. Helping others, even in small ways, can have a significant impact.

I've made it a point to assist other founders whenever possible. Whether it's offering advice, making introductions, or simply providing words of encouragement, I strive to support my peers. I believe that the more we help each other, the stronger our entrepreneurial ecosystem becomes.

The Long-Term Benefits of Kindness

Being kind and empathetic doesn't just benefit others; it also brings long-term rewards. While the primary motivation should be genuine altruism, I've found that good things happen to those who help others. The support you give often comes back to you in unexpected ways, creating a positive cycle of goodwill and success.

Cold calls will always be a part of the entrepreneurial journey. Instead of viewing them as nuisances, we can choose to see them as opportunities for connection and growth. By responding with empathy and kindness, we not only help others but also enrich our own lives and businesses.

As I continue to navigate my path as an entrepreneur, I remain committed to balancing hustle with heart. I encourage my fellow founders to do the same. Let's build a community where kindness and support are as valued as innovation and success.

Thank you for reading. If you have any thoughts or experiences with cold calls, I'd love to hear from you in the comments. Let's continue this conversation and support each other in our entrepreneurial journeys.

Akhil is the founder & CEO of Xena Intelligence.