A Founder's Guide to Networking

“If everyone is selling, who’s buying?"

That’s the first thing to remember when networking.

Here’s how to build long-term relationships in the networking events.

"Don't go by the name, go by where the value is."

1. Choose Events Wisely        

?Look for Value

Not all events are equal. Some founders' meetups attract more salespeople than actual founders. Instead, attend events focused on acquisitions, exit, and sales strategies to find serious founders.

?Ignore the Labels

Event titles can be misleading. Focus on events where you can find substantial value and connect with your target audience.

2. Understand Agendas        

?Everyone has an Agenda

Remember, everyone at a networking event has their own goals. People come to pitch their ideas, find clients, partners, or investors. Knowing this can help you approach them better.

?Adjust Your Strategy

Instead of just selling, try to understand others' needs and offer genuine help.

"Give more than you take, and your value will automatically increase."

3. Be a Giver        

According to Adam Grant's book "Give and Take," being a giver can lead to great success. Focus on how you can help others without expecting anything in return.

?Add Value

Offer valuable connections or advice. For example, introduce someone to potential investors or share useful industry insights.

4. Make Friends, Not Clients        

?Build Relationships

Aim to make friends rather than just clients. This approach leads to long-term value and a stronger network.

?Find a Common Ground

Have meaningful conversations that go beyond business to build genuine relationships.

5. Listen More Than You Talk        

?Show Interest

Ask about others' work and listen carefully. People love to talk about themselves and appreciate when someone genuinely listens.

?Add Value by Listening

By being a good listener, you show that you value their time and insights, which makes you memorable.

"Networking is not just about making contacts; it's about making an impression."

6. Follow Up, Always        

?Contextual Connections

When following up, remind them of the specific context of your discussion and mention any advice or connections you offered.

?Stand Out

After the event, connect on LinkedIn or email, and reiterate the key points of your conversation to stay memorable.

7. Personal Branding: The Secret Pro TIPS        

?Flaunt Your Brand

Wearing a T-shirt or other clothing with your company's logo can prompt curiosity and make it easier for people to approach you. If your brand is on your apparel, they might ask you what your brand does.

?Elevator Pitch

Give a short, intriguing pitch when asked about your business. Share bite-sized information to keep them interested. Do not share any information until asked.

?Highlight your Designation

Make sure your name tag includes your designation. Titles like "Founder" or "CEO" can create a strong impact and make you more approachable.

Advanced Networking Tips

8. Talk to Key Figures        

?Engage with Influential People

At events, seek out the most influential or famous person. Talking to them can make it easier for you to connect with others.

?Offer Specific Help

Think about how you can help others, whether it's through connections, information, or by sharing knowledge.

9. Focus on Relationships, Not Transactions        

?Avoid Transactional Thinking

Don't approach networking with a "what's in it for me" mindset. Build trust and add genuine value.

?Have a Positive Impact

Try to leave a positive impact on the people you meet by giving more than you take.

10. Delegate Smartly with VAs        

?Pre-Event Preparation

VAs can research the attendees and speakers, helping you identify key people you should connect with.

They also manage your event registration and calendar scheduling and prepare all necessary materials, such as business cards and materials for promotional purpose.

?Proactive Follow-Ups

They draft personalized follow-up emails, schedule further meetings, or send out LinkedIn connection requests on your behalf. This ensures timely and effective communication, keeping you fresh in the minds of your new contacts.

?Expand Networking Opportunities

VAs also keep an eye on upcoming events and webinars that align with your business goals and areas of interest.

Moreover, they manage your social media presence, increasing your visibility in your industry.

?Analyze Networking Results

After the event, they evaluate which interactions are turning into valuable opportunities, helping to refine your future networking strategies.

The Tailpiece        

"If everyone performs, who will be the audience? If everyone is there to sell, who will buy?"

Your strategy must shift from pitching to listening and helping.

By focusing on what you can give rather than take, you'll realize that your networking efforts become far more effective.

By applying these hacks, you can make your networking efforts more relational and less transactional, creating a network that provides lasting value.

Remember, the key to successful networking is to give more than you take and to focus on building genuine relationships.