Guidelines for Investor Speed Dating to help you up your A-game!

Investor Speed Dating on BUIDL.so has turned out to be one of the funnest, most rewarding ways that we can help you connect with the investors of your dreams. 😍

After our first edition turned out to be a great success with some great feedback, attending investors asking for intros to some of the startups, and one potential investment commit in the works.

That calls for a WOOHOO! 🎉

Woohoo!

That said, after careful consideration and some internal feedback, we decided to share some guidelines with you. This will effectively help you prepare and participate in BUIDL.so’s Investor Speed Dating upcoming editions.

Best Recommended Practices

• Come Prepared with Your 10 minute Pitch ⏲
  Craft a clear and compelling pitch that highlights your startup’s value proposition, market potential, and key achievements. Be concise, yet impactful, within the 10-minute timeframe.
• DYOR about the Investor Panel 📑
  Familiarize yourself with the background and investment focus of each participating investor. The BUIDL.so Team will announce the panel well in advance of the upcoming Investor Speed Dating event. Tailor your pitch to align with their interests and past investments.
• Test Your Tech Setup before the Event 💻
  Ensure your internet connection, camera, and microphone are in good working order. Test the event’s platform (ex: Zoom or Gather Town) beforehand to avoid technical glitches during your sessions.
• Keep your environment professional on camera! 🏞
  Ensure your background is neat and free from distractions, and minimize background noise.
• Listen Actively to Feedback👂
  While presenting your startup, actively listen to the feedback and questions from investors. This shows your openness to collaboration and adaptability to potential improvements.
• Network with Other Founders 🤝
  Take advantage of the opportunity to connect with your fellow founders. Building a supportive network within the startup community can lead to valuable insights and collaborations.
• Look great, feel great! 👖
  Make sure you dress for the occasion! While you don’t need to suit-up, you are expected to make an impression.

Make sure that you look presentable on camera! 👔

• Follow up with your new network! 🤙
  After the session, follow up with any contacts you made to continue the conversation and build relationships.

The Big No-nos

• Don’t Be Late; Punctuality is 🗝!
  BUIDL.so will add the event to your Google Calendar; make sure that you RSVP with a ‘Yes’. Plan ahead to log in on time and make a positive first impression.

Being late for your scheduled sessions sends the wrong message about your commitment and professionalism.

• Don’t Disregard Networking Etiquette ☕️
  Be mindful of your networking etiquette. Avoid monopolizing a conversation or interrupting. Give each participant, whether investor or founder, the opportunity to express themselves.
• Don’t be Ambiguous 💁‍♀️
  Be clear and concise in your communication. Ambiguity in your pitch or responses can create confusion and may hinder the investors’ understanding of your startup’s potential. Make sure that you are
• Don’t Use Inappropriate Language or Behaviour 😳
  Maintain a professional demeanour at all times and avoid using language or behaviour that could be considered offensive or inappropriate.
• Don’t neglect your camera etiquette💃
  Avoid distracting behavior such as excessive movement, eating, or drinking during the session.
• Don’t multitask 🙅
  Avoid multitasking during the session, as it can be disrespectful and may cause you to miss important information.

Put your best foot forward!

With these guidelines, we’re certain that you’ll effectively be prepared to make a great impression at the upcoming Investor Speed Dating.

All the best, Founder!