Questions

I am exploring a tech startup business idea that would provide a data service to the federal government. In order to validate the concept, I need to understand, in some detail, a particular function of a specific government agency. I would like to speak with someone who has previously held a specific role at the agency (ideally in the past couple of years). The role is neither executive management nor entry-level -- somewhere in between. I estimate that there are several hundred people currently with this role and perhaps a thousand people who have previously held the role. The government agency would be a major target customer for my business. Depending on how the agency operates, it could have significant ramifications for how I build my product. It could even render the business model invalid. Before building a prototype and getting in front of the right decision maker, I would like to confirm that the prototype would be worthwhile and solve a real need. Do any of the expert networks like GLG, AlphaSights, etc. specialize in government? I have tried LinkedIn but nobody in my network can introduce me to someone who has held this particular role at this agency. How could I get connected with this person?

Hi. If you are based in DC, network, network, network. Tools like LinkedIn or Conspire might be of help to trace your path to your target person, whether or not you are in DC. If you are not based in DC, make trips here and network. Once you have found a path, then you need to consider how to approach the said person. Ask your contacts on the way for insights. Are there rules that might impeed said person to communicate with you? If yes, what are ways around them? More often than not, there is a way. Is this the kind of person who will respond to an awesome (give and take) "cold" email? The kind of person who will only meet with you to repay a favor? Read up on said person as much as possible, there might be relevant nuggets out there about him/her. Make it easy for people to help you! Anticipate or ask them what you can do to facilitate the intro they might be able to provide for you. Most importantly, as a practice, help people around you. They will be happy to help someone who has helped them in the past.


Answered 8 years ago

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