Leveraging the Power of the Venture Capital World

I renewed a friendship with a buddy I knew 6-7 years ago when I was working on my start-up company (that was an online marketing services company and a nice business idea, but not funded well enough to really take hold in the market place). CM works at a venture capital firm here in Cincinnati -- I know that he’s well connected to lots of different organizations and that if I wanted to start networking, I needed to involve lots of people who are used to making business connections and introductions across industries. CM, a fellow alumnus from B-school, is a natural networker (his easy-going style is a primer on how to network without even trying).

In particular, I wanted to let CM know that I was interested in a board position (or two) with some of the companies in his venture portfolio. With my entrepreneurial background, I know that I can offer some meaningful help, particularly to some of the early-stage companies they are funding. In terms of my not-for-profit transition, I believe that understanding how to effectively consult on another company’s business will serve me well in couple of ways.

First, all companies and all industries are different. The skills and expertise that I’ve developed in the digital marketing business don’t translate perfectly to any other industry. I want exposure to other businesses so I can see what parts of my experience translate and what parts do not. I think any broadening experience will better equip me for whatever I might face in the not-for-profit arena.

Second, board positions are another powerful way to network. You never know where a good friendship, or a useful business relationship might emerge. By plugging in on a couple of boards, I can better connect with folks that might be able to help me out down the road.

And third, there are some really cool companies in CM’s portfolio. In particular, they have a business centered around dog and cat boarding services that looks great. I’m an animal lover (two dogs), so the opportunity to play a role in a business like that would be a lot of fun for me personally.

I’m not sure where the relationship with CM will take me next. I’ve sent him a bio and we’ll stay in touch over the coming weeks and months to better understand what opportunities might unfold. Look for future updates on this one.