NETWORKING EVENT connection
So yesterday, I met with a software developer to bounce ideas off someone who could either back me up or shoot me down. Thankfully, it was the former! I mentioned before that I created a prototype to show people my idea in person, which is way easier than trying to explain it.
Fast forward to today—I went to a networking event. I’ve been to this one before and never really made any connections, but I invited a friend who’s working on opening a business here in Denver, so I knew he’d show up. Plus, I needed to get out of the house since I worked from home today. Anyway, I digress.
I grabbed my complimentary drink and was walking around when I started chatting with this guy. While we’re talking, I overhear someone nearby say, “I’m the CEO of company ______,” and immediately think it’s ski-industry-related. So, I (kind of rudely) stop paying attention to my convo and start eavesdropping. Mental note: “I need to talk to him.”
Ten minutes later, I see the CEO guy sitting alone, so I make a beeline over and say, “I heard you mention you’re the CEO of company ______.” He confirms, and we start chatting. Then my friend walks in, says hi, introduces himself to the CEO, and it turns out they’ve already spoken before because my friend uses his platform for his business. Small world!
The three of us chat for a bit, and my friend asks if I’ve started working on my idea. I say yes but admit I’ve been cryptic about it because I like to have things buttoned up before going all-in. (Though, I’m realizing that’s not always the best approach.)
Eventually, my friend goes off to network, and I dive deeper into conversation with the CEO. I ask him about MVPs, pivoting, and all the startup questions you’d want to ask someone experienced. Turns out he had built and sold his first company before becoming CEO of this one.
When he asks about my idea, I explain it, and we start spitballing. Then his questions get more detailed, so I pull out my phone and show him my prototype. He flips through a few screens and immediately says, “Got it. I know what you’re trying to do.” From there, his brain kicks into high gear—in the best way. He starts throwing out ideas, asking all the right questions, and we’re talking everything: revenue streams, tech stack, equity, you name it.
Honestly, these are the kinds of conversations I’ve missed having—the ones where people get as excited as I do. He reminded me of a friend from business school who sold his company to Instacart!
We exchanged info, and I’ll definitely follow up. Not only is he willing to help, but I also attend events that could benefit his company, so I’ve got to connect him next time.
I guess this is what networking is all about! :) I’d kind of forgotten.