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Day 9 of The Startup Mafia Series: The Founder’s Relationship Hacks – How to Get Mentors & Investors on Your Side Startups don’t win because of the best ideas. They win because of the best relationships. Some founders effortlessly attract top investors, mentors, and customers. Others struggle for years, sending cold emails that never get answered. What’s the difference? Top founders don’t chase people—they make people want to be around them. Here’s how you can build powerful startup relationships without begging for attention. 1. Stop Asking—Start Giving Most founders make the same mistake: “Can you mentor me?” “Can you fund my startup?” That’s a one-sided ask. Successful people don’t have time for strangers who just want things from them. Flip the game: Share useful insights about their industry. Introduce them to valuable people. Solve a problem for them before you ever ask for anything. Example: Kunal Shah (CRED) didn’t get top investors by asking. He became known for his deep insights on business. Investors started following him before he ever pitched them. 2. Get Noticed Before You Need Them Follow them on Medial, LinkedIn and Twitter. Comment with sharp insights—don’t just say “great post.” Attend their talks, ask questions, and show up consistently. By the time you reach out, they should already recognize your name. Example: Many founders who got into Y Combinator first built relationships with YC alumni. When it was time to apply, they got referrals—giving them an unfair advantage. 3. Use “The Social Proof Shortcut” Cold messages rarely work. But if someone they trust introduces you? Now you’re in. Investors trust people their network trusts. Work your way up—connect with people who know them first. Don’t rush. Build credibility before you ask for anything. Example: The Flipkart mafia (Udaan, PhonePe) didn’t start by pitching VCs. They built trust within Flipkart’s network, so investors backed them without hesitation. The Harsh Truth The best founders never beg for help. They create so much value that help naturally comes to them. Your network isn’t just who you know today. It’s about who you help grow. Tomorrow: From Outsider to Insider – How to Enter the Startup Elite Follow Vishu Bheda now. The last post will reveal the ultimate shortcut to breaking into the startup mafia.