Insights from the Street: A Tech Entrepreneur's Journey into Local Businesses

Objectives

1. Expand Professional Network:
   • Increase knowledge and contacts within the industry by engaging with local businesses.
   • Establish a reputation as a curious and engaged member of the tech and entrepreneurial community.
2. Gather Insights:
   • Collect detailed information on business operations, challenges, and strategies from industry practitioners.
   • Understand diverse approaches to business management, innovation, and customer acquisition.
3. Develop Content Creation:
   • Use gathered insights to create content for your platforms or personal growth, like blogs, podcasts, or articles about entrepreneurship and technology.
4. Enhance Personal Brand:
   • Position yourself as an expert or enthusiast in technology solutions and entrepreneurship, leveraging your IIT-ISB background.

Actionables

1. Preparation for Cold Meetings:
   • Research: Before entering a new business, research the company's background, products, or services to tailor your conversation.
   • Scripting: Prepare an introduction script that includes your background, purpose of the visit, and clear intentions for the conversation. Example:
     • "Hi, I'm Santosh from IIT-ISB, and I build technology solutions. I came across your company and was impressed, so I decided to visit. Could we spend 15-20 minutes discussing your business model, challenges, and innovations?"
2. Conducting the Meeting:
   • Time Management: Keep the discussion within the proposed 15-20 minute timeframe to show respect for their schedule.
   • Questions: Prepare a list of open-ended questions like:
     • How did you start this company?
     • What's been your biggest challenge?
     • How do you acquire new customers or manage customer retention?
     • What innovations have you implemented in your business model?
3. Documentation and Follow-Up:
   • Take Notes: During the meeting, jot down key points for later reflection or content creation.
   • Photography: If agreed, take photos for professional or personal use but always ask for consent.
   • Follow-Up: Send a thank-you email or message post-meeting, summarizing key points discussed and perhaps sharing any promised content or asking for further clarification on any point.
4. Content Utilization:
   • Content Creation: Use the insights to write articles, create video content, or share on social media, crediting the entrepreneurs where applicable.
   • Feedback Loop: Share drafts or summaries with the entrepreneurs for feedback, which can also strengthen your relationship.
5. Continuous Learning:
   • Reflect: After each meeting, reflect on what worked, what didn't, and how you can improve your approach.
   • Networking: Use these meetings to not only gather information but also to offer your insights or help where you can, fostering mutual benefit.