Growing up in the digital age has made our generation incredibly resourceful. Information is at our fingertips, connections span continents, and opportunities are endless.
But there’s a paradox—we are more connected than ever yet increasingly isolated. Face-to-face interactions have dwindled, leading to greater social anxiety and a reluctance to engage in meaningful conversations. Rather than reversing this trend, we’ve started to glorify solitude, mistaking it for self-sufficiency.
In the world of venture capital and fundraising, this mindset can be a major setback. Relationships are the cornerstone of success, and strong social capital can be the differentiator between an idea that remains stagnant and one that secures funding.
A common belief is that networking inevitably shrinks over time. But is that really true? Or are we simply becoming passive in our social efforts?
In reality, networking is an ongoing process. Just as markets evolve, so should our connections. The best founders and investors don’t wait for opportunities to come to them—they actively seek out conversations, ask questions, and build relationships that open doors.
The key to thriving in venture capital isn’t just knowledge—it’s access. A well-connected founder doesn’t need to sift through thousands of articles to learn about fundraising strategies; they can simply reach out to someone who has done it before. This is the power of social capital—it’s the fastest route to learning, opportunity, and exponential growth.
One of the biggest barriers to networking is hesitation—the fear of reaching out, of starting a conversation, of being perceived as transactional. But the truth is, most people appreciate genuine interactions.
A simple message, a quick introduction, or an insightful question can lead to an investment, a partnership, or a mentorship that changes the trajectory of a business.
I broke into venture capital at an age when most are just starting to learn about it—not because of luck, but because I wasn’t afraid to send a cold ‘hi.’. The lesson? Opportunities don’t always come from formal networking events; they come from having the courage to reach out, to ask, and to engage.
History reinforces this principle. Our ancestors thrived in groups because collaboration meant survival. A lone human stood little chance against in the wilderness, but together, they could strategize, alert each other to danger, and protect one another.
Fast-forward to today, and the predators have changed. Instead of wild beasts, we face
- Market competition
- Funding challenges
- Business uncertainty.
But the solution remains the same—building strong networks. Investors look for founders who can build and leverage relationships because the ability to connect with the right people can be the key to scaling a business.
We can’t change the new normal overnight, but we can take small steps to shift our approach. Make it a habit to reach out to at least two new people every week—no agenda, just genuine conversations. Whether it’s an investor you admire, a fellow entrepreneur, or someone outside your industry, the most meaningful interactions often come from unexpected places.
In venture capital and entrepreneurship, social capital is the ultimate currency. It fuels learning, drives opportunities, and accelerates success. The best founders and investors don’t just rely on what they know—they rely on who they know. So, take the first step: say hi.
Author:
Kanuj Jadwani
