The Founder's Secret Sauce: How to Get Mentors & Investors on Your Side (in 3 steps)

Why the right #connections —not just the right ideas—win the game. Its more about WHO you know and not only what you know.

Some founders seem to have a magnetic pull. They attract top investors, mentors, and customers effortlessly. Meanwhile, others hustle for years, sending desperate cold emails that get ignored.

What’s the difference?

Top #founders don’t chase people. They make people want to be around them.

Here’s how YOU can build powerful startup relationships without begging for attention.

1. Stop Asking. Start Giving. ( my fav quote from Tony Robbins "The Joy of Living is in the giving")

Let’s get real. Most founders mess this up:

- “Can you mentor me?”

- “Can you fund my startup?”

- “Can I pick your brain?”

That’s a one-way street. And guess what? Successful people have zero time for strangers who just want things from them.

Want to flip the script? Do this instead:

- Share valuable insights in their industry.

- Introduce them to someone useful.

- Solve a problem for them before you ask for anything.

Example: Kunal Shah (founder of CRED ) didn’t chase investors. He became known for his deep business insights. Investors started following him first—before he ever pitched them.

2. Get Noticed Before You Need Them

Want people to recognize your name before you send that message? Here’s your action plan:

- Follow them on @LinkedIn , @Twitter and podcasts.

- Comment with real insights—don’t just say “Great post.”

- Show up at their talks. Ask smart questions. Be seen.

By the time you reach out, they should already know who you are.

Example: Many founders who got into Y Combinator They built relationships with YC Startup School Alumni first. When it was time to apply, they got referrals—giving them an unfair advantage.

3. The Social Proof Shortcut

Cold DMs rarely work. But you know what does? A warm introduction from someone they trust.

Here’s how you do it:

- Connect with people who know them first.

- Build trust in their circle before making your move.

- Play the long game—credibility first, ask later.

Example: The Flipkart mafia ( udaan.com PhonePe ) didn’t pitch VCs out of nowhere. They built trust within Flipkart’s network first. When they launched, investors backed them without hesitation.

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The Harsh #Truth

The best founders are never desparate for help. They create so much value that help naturally comes to them.

Your network isn’t about who you know today. It’s about who you help grow.

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