The Key Elements of Professional Networking for Entrepreneurs

Relationships are the foundation of every successful business. Whether you’re looking for customers, investors, mentors, or co-founders, your network determines your opportunities. But effective networking isn’t about collecting business cards or attending every event—it’s about building meaningful connections that move your startup forward.

In this interactive session, Christopher K. Lee, author of The Five Elements of Professional Networking, will share practical frameworks for developing authentic relationships that create value for you and others.

You’ll learn how to:

• Identify which relationships matter most for your startup’s growth
• Network intentionally without wasting time
• Strengthen relationships that lead linkto opportunities
• Build long-term trust with investors, partners, and customers

This session will help you develop a strategic, efficient, and authentic approach to networking—one that fits your personality, values, and business goals.

About the Speaker: Christopher K. Lee

Christopher K. Lee is the author of The Five Elements of Professional Networking and a lecturer at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. He also sources early-stage startups for GoAhead Ventures, giving him a unique perspective on how founders can use their networks to secure funding and strategic partnerships.

With a background in healthcare and technology strategy, Chris has worked across the ecosystem—from community clinics to major health systems, from early-stage startups to large health insurance companies. Beyond his industry work, he’s a frequent speaker on networking and career development, quoted in The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Harvard Business Review, and Forbes.

Through his writing, teaching, and mentoring, Chris helps professionals and entrepreneurs cultivate meaningful relationships that drive personal and business growth.

Who Should Attend

• Startup founders and entrepreneurs building their networks
• Small business owners seeking strategic partnerships or investors
• Students and professionals looking to grow their influence
• Anyone interested in mastering authentic relationship-building

About the CSUF Startup Incubator

The CSUF Startup Incubator helps entrepreneurs turn ideas into thriving businesses through mentorship, training, and community. Learn more at: https://business.fullerton.edu/engagement/entrepreneurship/incubator