Successful startups, as they say, do not exist in a vacuum. Oftentimes, a mere idea is transformed into a multi-million dollar startup venture through the simple act of networking. It is Startup Social’s mission to create events that foster this environment of innovation. On Friday, April 12, we hosted our largest event yet, attracting over 1000 entrepreneurs, investors and other professionals.

Set on the water, against the backdrop of the stunning Bay Bridge lights, One Ferry Plaza was the ideal location for this networking social, which featured a products showcase, full-bar, dance floor with DJs and more.  The event kicked off with the Startup Showcase, where a selection of handpicked companies presented their products to potential investors and consumers alike, generating valuable feedback and forging lasting partnerships.

These tips are applicable for networking whenever you are trying to engage your partner and form an important immediate connection as a foundation of a future follow up.

I recently read a post by Fred Kofman, a professor of leadership and coaching, titled “7 Steps to Prove That You Are Listening”. It was addressing men, husbands, fathers suggesting how to open up the channel of communications with their wives, daughters, significant others. What was interesting is that I realized this was the intent only after getting to the end of the post. I read the whole thing with the impression that the tips were for effective networking for anyone.

Read more at http://www.women2.com/effective-networking-by-learning-to-listen

As promised in my last blog entry, I'd like to address the topic of efficient networking and bringing to a close stale conversations. I called it "Knowing your No's". 

You've been there, I am sure of it. You're talking to someone new at a networking event. You are eager to identify the threads that connect you only to discover that the two of you have nothing in common. Furthermore, you are sure you cannot bring value to each other and any further interaction is simply a lost opportunity to connect with someone else. We're talking about efficiency here! Worse yet, you have probably been on the other side of that handshake oblivious to the fact that your partner is trying to shake you off.