how to build relationships with investors
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How to Build Relationshipswith Investors
This presentation consists of highlights from 33founders, an interview series on 33voices®
INSPIRED BY: David Tisch
The biggest mistake you can make as a founder is prioritizing operational goals
above building relationships. Instead of targeting investors based on what they can do for you,
connect with them on a personal level.
INSPIRED BY: David Tisch
“I’m not a bank. I’m not here to do transactions. I’m here to build relationships. I’m not big on building relationships through transactional engagement.”
INSPIRED BY: David Tisch
Put yourself in a position to succeed when meeting co-founders, mentors, and investors
by approaching them in an environment you’re comfortable in. If large networking events cause
you anxiety, arrange a one on one meeting to authentically represent yourself.
INSPIRED BY: David Tisch
What’s going to do that?David on how to start the conversation:
“The answer isn’t a specific answer and that’s the key. There’s no script. You have to win. You have to catch somebody’s attention.
You have to stop them in their tracks.”
INSPIRED BY: David Tisch
What’s going to do that? A fantastically funny email, a fantastically impressive email, a fantastically beautiful email, and beautiful probably involves a product shot or a link
that you click and go, ‘Holy! I’ve got to stop what I’m doing and pay attention that.”
INSPIRED BY: David Tisch
Remember that investors follow Mark Suster’s advice to “Invest in lines, not dots.” As a founder, it’s your responsibility to let
relationships evolve naturally and with the flow of your company.
INSPIRED BY: David Tisch
No one, regardless of their experience, should impact your big vision. Forbid yourself from taking short cuts that sell you short of the
bigger dream you’re working to achieve.
INSPIRED BY: Glimpse
Don’t approach venture capital meetings focused on projected success and exit strategies. Instead, present an image of how you’d like your product
to exist and provide data that supports that vision.
INSPIRED BY: Glimpse
If you’re uncomfortable delivering presentations use photos to demonstrate
your product or service. Whether product shots, graphs, or current stats, visual representations
are an easy way to break the ice.
INSPIRED BY: Glimpse
Remember that every startup is an experiment. The company you have today
will be entirely different in six months.
INSPIRED BY: Poshly
Invite potential investors to view your due diligence package after making your formal pitch. This way you’ll demonstrate that you’re meeting your milestones and
they can expedite their decision to invest.
INSPIRED BY: Poshly
To make your fundraising round more efficient, update existing and prospective investors by adding them to your DropBox
and constantly sharing new information.
INSPIRED BY: Poshly
Remember the Silicon Valley mantra when seeking investors: “If you want money
ask for advice.” Target leaders based on their mentorship qualities, not just
their financial support.
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Presentation created by Chase Jennings
Insights by Jenna Abdou
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