What Should You Not Do at Denver Startup Week?

Denver startup week, a chance for every business to make new connections and meet potential business partners.

Quite frankly. Denver startup week is a networking event and the activity that is taken seriously by the authority. It’s crucial to Denver-based companies and other companies.

Then, it doesn’t hurt anyone to take note of these useful tips for the most satisfying networking experience.

Oh, almost forget. Denver startup week is going to be this September. So be sure to check it out here to update the latest information.

In this article, I will focus on delivering you what you should NOT DO for the most satisfying networking experience with entrepreneurs at Denver startup week.

Before the Denver Startup Week

1. Forget to state your goals and objectives.

Stating your goals should always be the first thing that comes in everybody’s mind because, with goals, you can map the next step you need to do while attending the event.

Remember, your goals need to be SMART. SMART stands for specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, timely. When you state a purpose, ask yourself it clear enough? Is it aligned with the business objectives?

• Is it measurable? How do we measure it?
• Is the goal achievable in the event only? Or does it require more follow up?
• Is the goal compatible with your ability to handle during the event/
• Will the goal be fulfilled with time constraint?

Be always have a purpose for everything.

2. Do lousy research. 

Research before attending Denver startup week is always a good thing for whatever you are going to jump on board.

So, what do you research?

Well, mostly everything you need to know about the event.

Some questions for the starter are who is going to the event, who will speak at the event, etc.

Also, prepare questions in advance if you want to ask the people you want to talk with at the event. Denver startup week seems like the perfect chance to show how much you have done your homework to your startup peers.

3. Unprepared for an introductory presentation

If you have to make a presentation, this will be a perfect opportunity for you to introduce your company’s values to the community. Hence, guarantee you with leads, business partners and so on. And don’t assume that you only do a presentation with a big crowd of people at Denver startup week. No, it may get even more personal than that, especially when you have a face to face conversation. Therefore, a short and concise pitch about your company will bring much appreciation during the Denver startup week.

Again, you are not trying to talk about yourself too much so only include the basics, so people remember who you are, what you are standing for and aim in the future

4. Put on inappropriate clothes at the DSW.

Our conscience says that we don’t judge someone by their look. But we do, unconsciously!

And wearing inappropriate clothes to a formal event will guarantee to make a wrong impression towards the event’s attendee a lot. Almost every formal event has a dress code that requires the attendee to put on formal clothes. Even if there is no dress code, you should not feel free to wear whatever you like, especially for types of event like Denver startup week. Clothing is only the mere matter you have to pay attention to. Your grooming and hygiene also contribute to the “smart” look for you when attending the event.

Remember not to look too shaggy.

During the Event

1. Stay in your comfort zone

Comfort zone is comfortable, but you shall never grow if you keep staying in your circle. Then, it’s best to break free from the safe circle and meet new people. But what to say to people when you are clueless to start a conversation. Remember one psychological aspect of the human mind: People love to talk about themselves. Then ask about them as much as you can.

Here are some questions for you

• Where are you from originally?

• What brought you here? Why did you decide to attend tonight?

• What do you do? How long have you been doing that? What made you choose to be in your line of work?

• What keeps you doing what you do? What do you love about it?

• If you could alter or change anything about what you’re doing or how you are choosing to do it, what would you change?

• Do you work on a team or alone?

• What business goals or projects are you currently working on?

• What do you like to do when you’re not working?

• Do you have any kids? How old are they? What schools do they go to? (This is a good topic if you live near each other and may have kids in the same school.)

• If they mention anything about being married, you can ask about their spouse or how long they have been married.

• Find out if they have someone in your field who they already work with.

Questions credit: Forbes

2. Uninterested and fail to listen

As I mentioned earlier, people love to talk about themselves, so in return, they want someone who pays interest in their stories. Moreover, someone curious to know more about their story and how it turns out. So, ask a thoughtful question, make a comment that shows you are listening, share your thought and I believe it will make the whole networking will be something more than just the business level but better, personal level.

3. Uncontrollable body language

As we all know, communication consists of verbal and non-verbal communication. And non-verbal is one hell of a powerful tool to express yourself.

A smile tells someone that you are enjoying the event, open and welcoming while a crossed arm tells someone that you are not in the mood for talking. That’s why you must well aware of your posture and facial expression. It can be the bridge to new people, but without enough attention, it can put out the conversation from the beginning.

Furthermore, once you are in the conversation, try not to be so boring by talking in one tone or speaking to fast. Try different intonation to catch people’s attention better.

4. Fake and too much acting

People hate fakers. Don’t try to be someone or some company that you are not. And not try to sell. Of course, you are trying to make business partner but that only cause irritation.

Remember when I tell you to prepare yourself a presentation, don’t be too rehearsed but be natural or else people won’t resonate the story you tell them.

Most of all, have fun!

5. Forget the one thing to keep in touch: name card

It’s pretty much the unwritten code that everyone must know. This business etiquette proves to people you have the willingness to stay in touch. Presenting your card is also something to remind people of your presence.

Types of audience include entrepreneurs, investors, clients, partners, etc. and when one of them ask for your card, be sure to have your card ready in your hand or your pocket for convenience.

One more thing, be a skilled card collector, not only trying to give card only.

But how to make use of all the contacts you shall collect after the event?

That brings us to the last part that you should not do.

After the DSW

Leave the card lay still

You have a contact, a lead and have made a great impression. And you should not stay silent with all the connection.

Reach out.

Talk to them.

Integrate tools such as email marketing, CMR, social media. If you one to broaden your network, LinkedIn would be the wise choice to connect with everyone. As a result, if possible, you may set an appointment and discuss the further business.

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