Seeking outside capital is one of the methods entrepreneurs can do to find the proper financial support for their business. However, drawing the interest of investors if often seen as very challenging. It is true that the process of can be challenging. In fact, you should take it seriously so you know what’s best to do to gain the best result. There are many mistakes entrepreneurs can do to hold their businesses grow to a mature stage. However, you can avoid them by knowing them first.
How to avoid making mistake with potential investors
Keep in mind that the act of taking outside capital as an event is the very first mistake most entrepreneurs do. It is not just an event. It is a enduring obligation of your time, communication, as well as effort. Do not overlook the true worth of your investors. Their values are beyond their pocketbooks. To keep them engaged and satisfied, you need to do the continual work. And here are some ways you can do to avoid that one common mistakes with investors.
Do not overlook the true worth of investors
Keep in mind that you will need more than one single round capital to grow your business successfully. Investors can introduce you to many other ones who can offer meaningful know-how as well as introductions to other prospective investors, partners, and customers. Therefore, do not overlook the true worth of your investor. Do not treat them as just your financial source. Instead, build professional, genuine relationship that last long. It will serve both parties benefits in the long run.
Build good rapport with your investors
Do not treat your investors as less significant factor for the growth of your business. They are not less important than your customers or other business partners. For small business, the support of angel investors for example, are truly needed to seek positive growth. Hence, it should be one of your top responsibilities to manage investor relations. It should warrants significant attention and time because it influences your business outcomes.
Set realistic expectation to your investors
Aside from setting realistic expectation with yourself, you also have to do it with your investors. Externalize your honest assessment in clear terms. Display your honesty and transparency without making your business looks like it is going to crumble in just two years or it has massive, rapid growth potential.
Put honesty at front
To avoid making mistake with investor, always begin put honesty at the front especially about the potential of your business. You need to self-honest with yourself about it. Do not make yourself believe something untrue regarding to the outcome and velocity of your business’s growth. This is important so you can set realistic expectations with yourself. Realistic measure can help achieve more healthy perspectives as well as avoid misguided assumptions.
Prioritise communication
Communication is key for successful relationship with your investors. Hence, establish open communication through various meetings or reports. Create full engagement with your investors through consistent, open line communication. Meetings in person or written reports might not be enough so you can utilize other methods of communication such as phone calls, emails, etc. It takes time, energy, commitment and attention.
