It's high season for startup events. Your calendar is probably filling up with pitch competitions, investor meetups, and industry conferences - each one holding the potential for that game-changing connection or perfect investor match.
While these events can be incredibly energizing, my 17 years of experience has taught me something crucial: walking into any event without clear intentions is like sailing without a compass. You might catch some wind in your sails, but you'll never know if you're heading toward your destination or just drifting.
The Cost of Going in Unprepared
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Missed Connections - That one perfect investor who could help you scale
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Wasted Energy - Spending hours networking without purpose
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Lost Momentum - While others execute their plans, you're hoping for luck
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Diminished Impact - Your pitch loses power without clear objectives
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Missed Follow-ups - Valuable connections slip through the cracks
Transform Every Event into a Mission
The difference between surviving and thriving at events comes down to intentional preparation:
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Set 3 specific goals on a Post-it - make it your last look before entering
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Identify and research 5 key people to connect with
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Pre-book meetings through event platforms
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Research where target investors spend their time
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Create backup plans for approaching busy investors
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Stay open to "wild cards" while not relying on them
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Track meaningful metrics (conversion rates, social mentions, follow-ups)
How to Do Your Research
Smart preparation makes all the difference:
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Study the event platform for pre-booking opportunities
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Research investors' portfolios and investment thesis
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Map out where key people typically gather
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Remember: No response doesn't mean no interest - investors get flooded with requests
Pro Tip
Wild cards can be game-changers (like my flight conversation that led to my biggest contract), but never build your strategy around hoping for luck.
Key Takeaway
Success at events isn't about survival - it's about seizing every opportunity with purpose and precision. When you have your compass, you'll feel the same exhilaration as a sailor catching the perfect wind. (trust me I know)
Before You Go
Take a moment to reflect:
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What specific metrics will define success at your next event?
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How can you transform "survival" goals into "thriving" targets?
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What three concrete outcomes would make your next event worth the time investment?
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Who are the key people you need to connect with?
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How will you follow up meaningfully after the event?
Remember
Every minute at an event is a minute you could be building your company. Make them count.
Success isn't about survival - it's about seizing every opportunity with purpose and precision. Set your compass, chart your course, and let the adventure begin.
Until next week
/Jenny
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P.S.S. I'd love to make this newsletter even more valuable for you. If you want me to address something in particular - feel free to send me an email at [email protected]
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