For founders, networking isn’t just about selling. It’s about bringing energy, ideas and opportunities into your business. If you treat every conversation like a transaction, you’ll miss out on the deeper relationships that fuel long-term growth.

So how do you network like a founder – not like a salesperson?

Why networking as a founder is different

When you’re building a business, networking isn’t just about landing a deal - it’s about creating the ecosystem your company needs to grow.

As a founder, you’re not just looking for clients. You’re networking for:

  • Investors who can back your next stage of growth 
  • Suppliers and partners who make you more efficient 
  • Talent that could be your next game-changing hire 
  • Other founders who’ve been through it and can share shortcuts and perspective

That’s why founders need to be intentional with how they network. You can’t just show up and “see who’s there”. Every conversation should link back to what your business actually needs.

If you are looking to scale, network with people who have built businesses before.

If you are seeking funding, focus on investor-heavy events.

If you are expanding into a new market, build relationships with people who know the space.

Networking isn’t always comfortable – but it should always be useful.

The art of meaningful networking

The best networkers don’t just talk about themselves. They ask great questions, listen actively and understand how the people they meet could play a role in their business journey.

  1. Shift the focus from ‘What can you do for me?’ to ‘How can we work together?’

The best relationships in business aren’t transactional - they’re collaborative. Instead of pitching at people, start by understanding their challenges, goals and expertise. Then, position your business within that context.

Example: Instead of saying, “I run a startup that does X, do you need that?”
Try: “I’m working on X because I saw a gap in the market - have you come across this challenge before?”

It’s a subtle shift – but it changes the dynamic from a pitch to a partnership.

  1. Nail your pitch – because you’ll repeat it a lot

Most networking moments are short. You rarely get more than 30 seconds to explain what you do – so clarity matters.

If your pitch is vague, full of jargon or hard to follow, people won’t engage. If it’s clear and punchy, they’ll remember you and maybe even repeat it to someone else.

A great founder pitch is:

  • Simple – no jargon, no fluff
  • Impactful – what problem are you solving?
  • Memorable – why does it matter?

If you can’t explain your business in one sentence, keep working on it until you can.

The power of founder-to-founder connections

It’s easy to see networking as a way to meet investors, clients or partners - but connecting with other founders might be the most valuable thing you do.

Why?

  • They understand the pressure of running a business in a way others don’t.
  • They can provide insights, shortcuts and advice you won’t find elsewhere.
  • They often refer clients, introduce investors or share hiring recommendations.

Your network isn’t just about who can help you today - it’s about building long-term relationships that create future opportunities.

Some of my best intros – whether to investors, suppliers or even future hires – have come from other founders. And they weren’t made in a boardroom. They came from a coffee, a DM, a moment of real connection.

Final thought

Founders who treat networking like sales might win quick deals – but they’ll miss the bigger picture.

Those who treat networking as ecosystem-building create a steady flow of insight, support and opportunity.

So – be intentional. Be curious. Get specific. And remember, the best networks aren’t built on transactions – they’re built on value.

Ajay Mistry is the founder of Mode Insurance.