6. Copyright
DKParker, LLC
2018
People are involved
¤ Investors want to build a relationship early – but they
don’t want to invest too early
¤ Events
¤ Updates
¤ Likeability and self awareness matter
¤ This is a long relationship
7. Copyright
DKParker, LLC
2018
It’s not you, it’s your idea!
¤ Don’t assume investors see your idea the way you do
¤ Each meeting is about getting to the next meeting
¤ Score yourself first!
¤ 10 Factors
¤ 1-4
¤ Peer rating
¤ Where are you weak?
9. Copyright
DKParker, LLC
2018
Mechanics
¤ Steps
¤ Prospects – build a big list
¤ AngelList, Crunchbase, LinkedIn
¤ Qualified
¤ Specific Opportunity
¤ Lead/follow
¤ Hubspot – Google Sheet
¤ Track notes
10. Copyright
DKParker, LLC
2018
About them – Qualification
¤ Know what they invest in
¤ Know their typical amount
¤ Vertical
¤ Stage
¤ Pre-seed - $200k
¤ Seed - $500k
¤ A - $2M
¤ Lead, follow or tire kickers
11. Copyright
DKParker, LLC
2018
Mechanics
¤ Map your introductions
¤ Create a forwardable email
¤ ABC – Always be closing
¤ What would you like to see before we meet next?
¤ Prep for the next round in 12-18 months
13. Copyright
DKParker, LLC
2018
Season and timeline
¤ Short Season – Sept 15- November 15
¤ Long Season – January 15 – June 15
¤ Target 2-3 Month
¤ Momentum matter
15. Copyright
DKParker, LLC
2018
Monthly Updates
¤ Monthly
¤ Clear, concise, consistent
¤ Not random
¤ Show your Grit here!
¤ Email structure
¤ What we said, what we did, where we need help
¤ Shift to 2 Week updates – if you’re shipping new code
and driving new customers
¤ Build an email list on MailChimp, Hubspot, etc.
16. Copyright
DKParker, LLC
2018
Deal killers
¤ <6 Months of burn
¤ False momentum
¤ Not knowing your numbers
¤ “Rounding up”
¤ Prospects ≠ Customer
¤ Waiting for permission to move forward – don’t wait on
an investor check. Don’t make your financials
dependent on that check!