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I received an email today asking if I’d like to learn how to be an angel investor. I would love to in the near future, but for now I’m bootstrapping the launch of my consumer product.

The Pipeline Fellowship trains women philanthropists to become angel investors through education, mentoring, and practice. Fellows commit to invest in a woman- led for-profit social venture in exchange for equity and a board seat at the end of the training.

PF’s blog has great videos from angels with helpful advice. One in particular from Rod C. about networking offers a great refresher of things to keep in mind during and after you have a conversation with someone. Below are some of the points of the video along with my own tidbits on networking.

1. How can you help the person you are talking with?
2. What is your goal and reason for networking?

• Have a goal in mind when you’re networking. Whether it’s a question you need an answer to or someone you’d like to connect with.

3. What is your value proposition?

• Even if it’s mostly about you, make sure to learn what their needs are so you can be on the lookout for them.

4. How will you follow up?

• Follow up by saying what you’ll be doing at the end of the conversation. This secures the follow up the end of your discussion.
• Make sure to have 3 points of contact within 30 days. Email, phone, coffee in person etc…