The first thing I do when mentoring noob entrepreneurs/founders is ask them about their networks.
"How are you growing it?"
"Who are your mentors?"
"Who are your mentees?"
"Who are the big-wigs in your network?"
I have found, much to my surprise, given that I'm a "black belt ninja networker type" (apparently;per the article) that people haven't really given much thought to these questions.
They know (or get the sense) that having a strong network is important but they've never really worked on building it.
This article provides some good insight on how to build your network. Specifically it makes it clear that in order to build your network you MUST NOT BE SHY.
It also makes it clear that it's work.
As I like to say: "Building your network requires, well, that you build your network."
Hi, I've been an HN lurker for a few months but finally signed up today just to inquire about mentors when I saw your comment. I am a complete beginner when it comes to startups. In fact, I happened to stumble into my niche rather accidentally. How do I go about finding great mentors or at least a group of like-minded people that I can learn from? If it helps, I'm currently located in NJ about 45 mins from NYC. I apologize in advance if this is a strange venue to ask this type of advice. Thanks!
Just start attending events, smiling, and introducing yourself to people. Make sure you are not shy about asking for what you are looking for. For example "I'm just figuring this startup thing out. I think I've got some great ideas but I don't have any mentors. If you know of any one I could talk to that would be great."
Comments
Great article.
The first thing I do when mentoring noob entrepreneurs/founders is ask them about their networks.
"How are you growing it?"
"Who are your mentors?"
"Who are your mentees?"
"Who are the big-wigs in your network?"
I have found, much to my surprise, given that I'm a "black belt ninja networker type" (apparently;per the article) that people haven't really given much thought to these questions.
They know (or get the sense) that having a strong network is important but they've never really worked on building it.
This article provides some good insight on how to build your network. Specifically it makes it clear that in order to build your network you MUST NOT BE SHY.
It also makes it clear that it's work.
As I like to say: "Building your network requires, well, that you build your network."
Hi, I've been an HN lurker for a few months but finally signed up today just to inquire about mentors when I saw your comment. I am a complete beginner when it comes to startups. In fact, I happened to stumble into my niche rather accidentally. How do I go about finding great mentors or at least a group of like-minded people that I can learn from? If it helps, I'm currently located in NJ about 45 mins from NYC. I apologize in advance if this is a strange venue to ask this type of advice. Thanks!
I searched Bing for "New York Tech Startup Calendar" and got this:
http://startup-ventures.meetup.com/cities/us/ny/new_york/
Just start attending events, smiling, and introducing yourself to people. Make sure you are not shy about asking for what you are looking for. For example "I'm just figuring this startup thing out. I think I've got some great ideas but I don't have any mentors. If you know of any one I could talk to that would be great."
Good luck!