Uploaded June 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Bill Gurley explains why cold outreach to high-profile industry leaders rarely works and what actually does. The mistake isn't reaching out; it's reaching out BEFORE you've built credibility. Top investors and operators are flooded with requests from people with no track record. If you want access to influential people, you need to earn it first: DEMONSTRATE competence in your domain, build a network of peers who can vouch for you, or accomplish something noteworthy enough that they'll return your call. In other words, build your credentials before asking for their time.
Bill Gurley explains why cold outreach to high-profile industry leaders rarely works and what actually does. The mistake isn't reaching out; it's reaching out BEFORE you've built credibility. Top investors and operators are flooded with requests from people with no track record. If you want access to influential people, you need to earn it first: DEMONSTRATE competence in your domain, build a network of peers who can vouch for you, or accomplish something noteworthy enough that they'll return your call. In other words, build your credentials before asking for their time.
