Picture this: You're logging into your second call with a potential investor, only to find another unfamiliar VC face staring back. Now what?
Common responses I’ve seen:
Restarting their initial pitch.
Assuming the new investor knows everything.
Asking, "What would you like to discuss today?"
While they might seem reasonable, all these approaches could jeopardize your chances. Remember, you're not just presenting an idea; you're presenting yourself. VCs are always evaluating. And like the song goes: “Every breath you take, every move you make...” - they’re watching closely.
The Key? Don’t be a passenger.
Meetings are about control.
And not in any '50 Shades of Grey' sense. As a founder, you should always be in the driver's seat. VCs are assessing you as much as your product. The mantra? "When placed in command, take charge." General Norman Schwarzkopf might've been talking about leading troops, but the essence remains.
Impostor syndrome, documented in 85% of business professionals by a 2020 Kajabi study, can often make you take a backseat. Fight that urge. Passive talk can spell doom for your pitch.
So, the million-dollar question: How should you navigate that unexpected second meeting?
✅ Get more information: Start with something like, “Great to meet you, [new investor]. How informed are you about our journey so far?”
✅ Build that relationship: Before diving into your narrative, ask the new VC about their journey. This not only establishes that you’re in control but gives insights into how you might tweak your pitch to resonate with them.
Such nuanced changes can shift you from a mere participant to leading the conversation, ensuring you own the meeting and, hopefully, the deal.
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