What are some ways to build a strong support network for entrepreneurs?

Networking is crucial for entrepreneurs. I often say, 'Your network is your net worth.' Identify your needs. Do you need mentors, customers, peers, fans, or something else? Based on your needs, you can look for relevant networking events.

Map the answers to look for the most suitable network for you. 👇 1. Identify The Pain - Where am I struggling? 🤕 Sales? Product? Team building? Investment? Marketing? Motivation? Or something else. Be as specific as possible. 2. Identify The Support - What kind of support am I looking for? 🤝 Feedback? Advice? Inspiration? Reference? Collaboration? Brand awareness? Or something else. 3. Identify The Prospects - Who can actually help me? 😎 Mentors? Prospects? Peers? Fans? Or something else. You can use more filters like industry, location etc. Answer template example: ➡️ I need "(2) ADVICE" from "(3) MENTORS" for my "(1) SALES". I follow this process to find the networks suitable for my purpose; hope it'll help you too! 👍

When it comes to startups; communities, whether online or offline, serve as ideal platforms to discover your tribe. However, mere participation is insufficient for tribe-building. Active engagement, embracing newcomers, providing value, and fostering collaboration are essential. Identifying with a community requires cultivating a sense of belonging and purpose, ensuring long-term commitment. To truly belong to a tribe, go beyond surface-level connections; actively contribute, welcome newcomers warmly, offer meaningful value, and encourage collaborative efforts.

‘Trust’ is the new currency of business, actively engaging and contributing to support the founder community is crucial for fostering strong relationships and establishing the much needed ‘trust’. In my opinion the 4 best ways to engage and contribute in a community - Active Participation: Being present and engaged with all. Offering Support: Proactively offering help or assistance wherever possible Sharing Knowledge or Resources: Contribute your expertise, insights, or resources Appreciating others: Showing gratitude and appreciating others for the achievement.

There's no point in being part of a community or network if you don't add value or use it for what it's there for. People are often too happy to help, just ask, equally, you should be able to assist and impart knowledge that adds value and insight in equal measure. Find a forum that works for you, Slack channels, Discord, LinkedIn etc engage, communicate and be authentic. Tell your story, people will relate

Segmenting the support network based on distinct needs and stages is paramount. From early financial trust from family to the invaluable support during product launches, each segment plays a unique role. Aligning these segments strategically allows for clear expectations and tailored engagement strategies. But remember, at the core of success lies the value chain—the ability to offer and deliver effectively and timely. This holistic approach ensures effective utilization of support networks throughout the entrepreneurial journey.

Instead of asking the top dogs to coffee ask to interview them. You’ll get slightly more yes’s. Since it shows it them that you’re willing to share there message with your network.

Instead of asking the top dogs to coffee ask to interview them. You’ll get slightly more yes’s. Since it shows it them that you’re willing to share there message with your network.

The worst networkers are the ones who have a need/ask and when they make a snap judgement that you can't help - they bail. The best are genuinely interested in whom their talking to and will figure out the value of the relationship later. More than anything, your network as an entreprenuer is not about a transaction - getting somethign for something. It is about relationship building. An a key to any relationship is, what are you bringing to the table? Starting out all I could bring was time, curiosity, and the ability to volunteer to help. That launched me. TL/DR: This topic/question was framed poorly because it leans in to the tactics of networking, with a little bit of value. I look at things from relationship first.

Avoid the pressure to network in certain ways. Find a method and group that works for you. We have created The Antisocial Socialites expressly to support "Antisocialites" who hate traditional networking and who haven't found a space and tribe that feels inclusive, diverse and welcoming.