Building relationships with investors is the most important part of raising funds for your growing business and probably the hardest. This is not something that can be done overnight, it’s a slow-burning relationship and that requires finesse, planning, and all of your time. Below are several strategies for building deeper connections with investors that can lead to success in fundraising.
Because they are continuously meeting people in similar networks, it’s especially helpful and interesting to be introduced to people in different circles and networks, which allows them to potentially branch out.
Let them know how they’re doing and ways that they can improve. Typically, companies they work with want to do well with them and don’t want to upset them, so the investor/donor rarely gets radically candid feedback.
Aiding in their search to find the right people to join their team will add tremendous value.
An engaged investor base will help with introductions, referrals, and advice. Have a disciplined management reporting approach and you’ll differentiate yourself from most other entrepreneurs.
Even if you haven’t fully closed the deal with a specific firm, it doesn’t mean you should give up the fight. Keep growing your relationship with all investors you have contact with because you are building a lifelong network of support that you may need in the future.
Your goal is to have each one invest in your next financing round. Start with the bad news and end with the good news. This gives your investors confidence in the rest of the updates you provide.
Remind them of your previous targets and state whether they were reached.
Check our Scale By Numbers Episode with an investor from Trinity Capital–great resource.
For other great fundraising resources, check out Foundersuite
Whatever stage you’re at in business, you need to be all over the numbers. In posts like this, we aim to offer bite-size food for thought – but in a few hundred words, we can only do so much.
If you’re ready to build your financial muscle, how about a FREE copy of James Vanreusel’s (highly-acclaimed) book for CEOs?
The #1 Key to Creating a Thriving Business takes you through the challenges of growing and scaling your company, from first to last. And you can request your copy here – no hidden fees, no strings.