10+1 mindset tips for startup founders raising capital

Raising money for your startup, like everything really, boils down to your mindset. Being in the right place, mentally, will determine your success more than anything else.

Raising money for an early-stage startup comes with a lot of mental challenges. You will deal with rejections, disappointments, sways of excitement and despair, confusion, delay, the list goes on. Seeing things in the right prisma, positioning yourself correctly when communicating to investors, and managing your inner state are all substantial components of your success.

After seeing so many startup founders and accompanying them during their capital raise, here are 10 mindset tips for founders that are crucial to success in raising capital. Oh, and there is one bonus one in the end.

1.  The conversation is about money: Ultimately, an investor will invest in you because they are convinced they have a good chance to make a big profit from their investment. So be sure to communicate that clearly. Be practical and savvy. 
2. Ask questions: While you're presenting your company and vision, don’t forget to ask questions and gather information about the investor. You should be genuinely interested in their goals and requirements. You also need to assess whether they are actually going to invest and whether you want to accept them as investors. 
3. Be an expert: You're specialized in your niche, and therefore you are an expert with valuable information. Make sure you know your numbers, presenting information clearly and confidently. Investors will respect you and trust you the more for it. 
4. You're the Leader: No matter how keen you are to secure funding, never let investors overshadow you. It's your startup; they are joining you, not the other way around.
5. Be Strategic: Think long-term. Understand where each conversation with an investor fits within the broader scheme of things.
6. One Step at a Time: Aim for the immediate next step. If it's your first meeting, your objective might be to secure another one. If you’ve just connected on LinkedIn, your goal is to schedule a call. 
7.  Have Empathy: View your investor as a human being first. Consider their needs and interests. Aim to add value and share your expertise and network whenever relevant. 
8.  Be Ready to Say No: If an investor doesn't feel right or seems dubious, trust your gut. There are many investors out there, so never feel pressured into a partnership.

9.  Stay Optimistic: Radiate positivity. Even during trying times, remain hopeful and driven. Your startup represents a brighter future.
10. Be Honest: Always be transparent in your dealings. Misrepresenting facts or figures will always backfire in the end.  

11.  Keep your cool: Things will become difficult sooner or later. Keep it together and do what you need to take care of yourself and your mental well-being.