Studies show Indian women entrepreneurs face unique hurdles compared to men, including limited access to funding, mentorship, and professional networks
Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your climb, the road to success is paved with a million roadblocks.
But you don’t have to navigate it alone!
That’s where the power of community comes in.
HEN, or Her Entrepreneurial Network is more than just a networking community; it’s a supportive ecosystem designed specifically for Indian women entrepreneurs like us.
Here, we’re all about connecting, collaborating, and mentoring one another to scale up our businesses and thrive in our entrepreneurial journeys.
5 Steps to Network in the HEN Community
By now, we trust that you’ve signed up for the community and have verified your account.
The next important step is to introduce yourself. Don’t be shy!
Everyone in the community wants to build meaningful connections. No one cares about any little mistakes you make while introducing yourself.
We just want to get to know you!
Take action promptly! Because First Impression Matters.
We’ve provided templates for you to copy and fill in with your details. Let your authenticity shine in your introduction. This is your chance to make meaningful connections from the start!
Template 1: From [Your City] to HEN: Meet [Your Name]
Add a picture to your introduction!
- Add a picture to your introduction! – It adds a personal touch, builds trust, and makes you more memorable.
- Feel comfortable posting a friendly pic – that can make a fantastic impression.
An Example to get an idea:
I’m Priya Kapoor, and I come from Bangalore, India. I’m the Co-founder of ZaaZoo where we personalize learning experiences for children through AI-powered games. I’m also a super proud mom to an energetic toddler and the most adorable Golden Retriever you’ve ever seen! When I’m not working, you can find me engrossed in a good book or practicing yoga. I truly believe that kindness is a superpower, and I’m excited to connect with all of you amazing folks in the HEN community!
A Real Example from our HEN Member:
I am so excited to be here and see what this platform entails. I am Nandini Sharma, an artist and illustrator from Bangalore. I have a big passion for creation and learning. I work out of my sacred space, the NESSART16 studio, where I run my illustrated products business, and create as my heart desires. I also have a YouTube channel with simple, calming vlogs where I showcase the process behind my art and work. I have a keen interest in filmmaking, so this is a great place for me to learn as well. Apart from art, I also love photography, creative writing, reading personal development books, journaling, traveling, dancing and baking. I am excited to see what HEN has to offer, and to meet (at least virtually, if not in person) the wonderful people in this community. I am looking forward to gaining insights and learn about running my business from all the lovely people here. Hello!
You can find more introduction templates in the upcoming article on "5 Introduction Templates to Get You Ready."
We know the struggle is real, entrepreneurs! Packed to-do lists can make networking feel like just another chore.
But here’s the thing: networking isn’t just another box to tick. It’s a core reason you joined HEN in the first place!
Follow the instructions to add HEN Community Icon for easy access.
- Open your browser (Chrome, Google) and type in henindia.com.
- Click the two horizontal lines on the right.
Click “Log in” and sign in with your email address. - Click the three dots on the top right and select “Add to Home Screen.”
Create a shortcut. - Now you’ll find an “H” icon with your apps on your phone.
- Drag the “H” icon to a place on your phone screen where you can easily access it. You can place it near WhatsApp, YouTube, or any other app you use the most.
Now that you have HEN at your fingertips, you can click the icon anytime and access the HEN forum anytime.
1. Start by connecting with the Top Contributors.
Find “Top Contributors” in the HEN forum. There, you can discover the active members for this week and all time.
Start by connecting with 3 out of the 7 Top Contributors. Begin by engaging with their posts and introducing yourself.
“Top Contributors” are those who are most active in HEN.
2. Find people in your industry.
3. Find people in your location.
Use the same method as above. Search for your location and connect with those members.
Start with them first, as you can connect with them faster.
4. Participate in Weekly Events and HEN Meets
5. Set a Networking Goal
6. Offer Your Help
Here’s what you can do:
- Check Events and register for the ones you want to learn from.
- Check the latest posts of 3 different people in the forum and comment on your thoughts briefly (Positive- great; Negative- Ask as a question).
- Don’t overthink your comments; we want to make the most of these 5 minutes.
- On the top left of the homepage, find the 3 mini-lines and click on a topic related to your field or something you would like to engage in.
- Let’s say “All about Money” is a topic you’re interested in.
- Click on it and see what’s being discussed.
- Engage with people in that topic.
- Alternatively, create a post on a topic that’s on your mind and post it.
See, it only takes 5 minutes to network!
Here’s what you can do:
- Decide on the 2 or 3 HEN members to conduct this meet with.
- Choose a suitable time based on everyone’s availability.
- Schedule a meeting using any application (Google Meet, Zoom, etc.).
- Ensure it is at least a 30-minute meeting.
Related Post
It takes 21 days to form a habit, so why not use this time to cultivate networking as a habit?
Your Course of Action to Kickstart Your HEN Journey:
- Introduce yourself in the HEN community.
- Add HEN to your phone’s home screen.
Make connections in HEN. - Dedicate 5 minutes daily to networking for 21 days.
- Set-up your first Non-Agenda Virtual Meet.
Start Leveraging the Power of Networking on HEN Community:
It takes less than 5 minutes daily to network effectively.
Once you get the hang of it and connect with people, you’ll be able to maximize the benefits in various ways with the help of the community.
You’ll notice a difference in your network and feel more confident in the process.
Remember, being a part of HEN is less about marketing your product and more about networking, which will ultimately help in marketing your product and lead to multifold opportunities!
Article Contribution by – Devika Kovachi & Sapna Garg