Networking!

Objective: To use my network to get an introduction with someone I’d like to meet/speak to.

Process: Based on my conversation with Luke, my Entrepreneur Design facilitator, I found out about Sneha and Melody, his classmates who had also done a book for their Kickstarter campaign. I asked for an introduction, and he set us up for a chat.

Outcome: A video call with Sneha!

It was great, and extremely helpful. We spoke for about an hour, and she gave me such great insights based on her experience, along with useful tips that I could easily apply to my project.

We kept in touch after, and I also reached out again with other questions, which was super helpful too.

BONUS: She ended up backing my project, and very generously <3

Reflections

I’ve used the approach of networking quite a bit in the last decade, so I know how much it can help. Although, it was definitely hard starting out. Over many emails and conversations, it keeps getting easier and I’ve eased into the process of reaching out to people I don’t know.

In this case Luke offered to introduce us, so I didn’t even need to ask (thanks Luke)! Although, I’d happily do so.

Talking to Sneha helped a great deal with my project. Moreover, she was a really pleasant person to talk to and was very willing to help beyond my initial ask. I enjoyed my conversations with her and would definitely be in touch with her.

This particular case ended up being a great example of how things can work out well with networking - it helped me build yet another new (and great) connection! Yay!