🏦Relationships are like bank accounts. The more you deposit, the more you can withdraw. 

🤝I define “relationship” as a two or more people, relating and getting to know each other organically over time. Building relationships for founders is key, because that's how you get the key resources (inventors, customers, employees) you need to win. Think about it. If you want access to a key resource, like a VC, that resource is more likely to respond via a warm intro, than a cold email. The only way to get that warm intro, is by building a relationship with someone who learns to trust you over time

⛔However, most founders treat relationships like a public service. One where you can just take, take, take, without putting anything in. For example, when a founder asks for an intro or a recommendation, without even knowing you

✅Do this instead. Upon first meeting someone, never ask for intro or money. Ask for advice. After the meeting, write a thank you note and cite specifically which advice you are thankful for. Take it one step further, and do something for that person without them asking, so if they’re a VC, refer to a startup, if they’re a founder, refer to a customer. After all that, the request for an intro should come organically.