Many founders have discovered that effective networking can make a difference in forging new connections in the innovation ecosystem. With that in mind, MFN recently conducted a webinar featuring Diane Darling, Founder of Skills4Today, who shared several useful networking tips and tricks for startup founders.
Diane has more than 20 years of experience in public speaking, combining her styles as a leadership coach and author to foster strong networking strategies inside and outside conference rooms and event halls. (You can learn more about Diane here.)
Here’s what Diane says founders need to know when preparing to network!
Follow the “Whether Report.” Take a moment to review all of the information about the upcoming event on your calendar. Diane suggests using the graphic below to determine how valuable the event is to your startup:
- Who’s hosting the networking event?
- Does it realistically fit into your schedule? As much as they try, founders can’t be everywhere at once. If you can’t attend a particular network event, recommend that a colleague or co-founder participate and share their takeaways with your team.
- Who are the guests making a cameo appearance? This could be opening remarks from a local or state representative, a video introduction from long-time investors, or concluding remarks from an executive at the host organization – all of whom also play a significant role in the innovation ecosystem.
Display Interest in Talking to Someone New. Diane suggests thinking about interacting with different people as if you were flossing your teeth: you are competent at flossing because of how many times you’ve done it. The more often you meet other people, the greater the likelihood of new doors opening for your company – such as learning about a specific grant opportunity, meeting new investors, or securing a sponsorship opportunity. Introducing yourself with a firm handshake also signals to others that you’re excited to engage with them.
Schedule a One-on-One Meeting. At a startup networking event in the city, you meet the person of your dreams: a fellow innovator whose expertise is in the same industry where your company is taking shape. A valuable new contact? A prospective co-founder? Perhaps! But conversation in a crowded setting has its limits, so recommend continuing your discussion in a one-to-one session. Bring a business card to share, or a pen to exchange each other’s contact information so the two of you can follow up during the week. You never know when sparks will fly!
There is a Difference between Hearing and Listening. Networking events are meant to initiate long-term connections – helping founders like you expand the circle of folks you know in your industry when you face new challenges and new celebrations. Listening to one another indicates that you’re serious about maintaining thoughtful interactions. So leave your phone in your pocket and make eye contact with the person in front of you. Pay attention to the thoughts they are sharing about the keynote panel discussion you just observed. Distractedly texting or responding to emails means you’re missing out on the purpose – and potential – of networking.
Everyone Has a Different Perspective, and That’s Okay. Using the image above, Diane points out that every individual at networking events comes with their personal insights and quirks – experiences that have led them to the same place as you. Being open-minded to the fact that not every founder will have the same approach as you allows for more opportunities to reflect: “I never thought of it like that before!”
Looking to make new connections in the Massachusetts startup ecosystem? Sign up for our newsletter to learn about upcoming MFN events across Massachusetts – and consider becoming an MFN member to access even more resources!
