At the turn of the century, VC’s (venture capitalists) was a bigger buzzword than it is today. But they are still around and extremely important. How do you meet one? Easy…you go to where they are and talk to them. That’s what I did last summer…by accident.
(photo: Dave Jacob Hoffman)
That was not my main mission when I attended this event. I went to see how these pitch things go. I was curious. A networking colleague of mine suggested that I join her to a VC Pitch Session and I did. Knowing what I know about her, if she said it was worth the fee, then I believed her. She has introduced me to a number of worthwhile people in the 2 years I have known her.
I walked into the room, it was packed. I plopped down at the table. Next to me was this unassuming woman who asked me how I was. I thought she was a spectator like myself. So I felt comfortable gabbing with her. We hit it off pretty well. Next thing I know, the organizers tell me to move to the other side of the table, because they want all the VC’s to be sitting next to each other.
Huh?
I looked at the program, and bam! There she was. All several hundred million dollars of her. Would I have talked to her, If I knew who she was? Good question. I hope so. Because that is a trait of the master networker I purport to be.
Seven entrepreneurs pitched their wares. She and two others gave their criticism. I may be biased, but she was the star of that panel.
When it was over, we exchanged cards. Since that day, I have gone out to lunch with her twice. I have been a guest in her palatial home and have joined her business club. I will see her next week for drinks and giggles.
She has sent me numerous potential clients. I need to do better and even out the ratio.
And I will probably be included in one of her future business books.
Moral of the story: When a known networker asks you to join them at an event, go. Once you get there, be charming and most importantly, be a good listener. And give, don’t take.
You never know who you may meet (and befriend).
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