Three Reasons Startups Need to Prioritize Networking
Conventions. Talks. Trade shows. There are so many opportunities for networking when you’re the ambitious founder of a growing startup. Digital connectivity has opened up even more channels to meet potential leads, partners, and investors. But why is it so critical that you grasp these opportunities and maximize their potential?
1. You Need More Than a Great Idea
If you build it, they will come—well, that only works if they know about it and know where to come and who to talk to. Your amazing idea is potentially industry-changing, but without the right people to talk about your fantastic app or platform, your efforts may go largely unnoticed. There are over 75,000 startups in the United States. Standing out from the crowd takes more than a great idea.
Prioritizing networking can include:
Taking demonstrations of your app to physical, in-person events
Attending online conferences or other events
Hosting articles from other experts/respected leaders in your field
Partnering with startups in adjacent industries to boost each other’s marketing efforts
Meeting other founders and sharing best practices
Hosting a podcast or livestream where you invite other founders or technical staff to get involved
While you might see these types of networking activities as taking you away from your work, they actually help cement your position as a trusted entity in your market.
2. Networking is a Great Way to Meet Potential Investors
Finding the right investor whose values and ambitions align with your own is easier when you prioritize networking. Industry events attract the type of investors who are specifically interested in the niche that you’re trying to fill. Get your branding on point, ensure your product is ready to demo, and take yourself to as many relevant events as possible.
3. Networking Puts a Face to Your Brand
With so many tech startups vying for space in the market, it helps to show the human face of your company and brand. While using digital channels to open up conversation is great, meeting people and sitting down to talk (in-person or digitally) makes a connection more real. Even B2B buyers engage more with brands that they feel an emotional connection to. Make those connections by being yourself, speaking about your passions, and getting excited about the impact your tech offering can make.
Final Word
Networking is just one aspect of your overall strategy to get your tech startup’s brand noticed. Book a 15-minute introductory call with Arch Collective and find out how we can transform your brand messaging strategy and help you really cut through the noise.
Need more tech news and marketing strategy insights? Subscribe to Arch Collective's newsletter.
