[timc]

so i'm a VC and i don't bother to ask that question. there is no value in asking that and not a question you want to answer IMHO. Most important is to get referred into a VC if possible from someone who trusts you and who the VC knows well. VCs are a lot more frank with a trusted referrer usually than they are with the entrepreneur and the referrer can signal that the deal is getting traction. That seems to matter, probably too much, to most VCs.

[shafqat]

thanks for the tips. i guess the weird thing about our situation is a lot of VCs have contacted us. we're super early stage and weren't explicitly looking for funding. but as a result, we've had some awesome meetings and built some really good relationships. is it weird for VCs to contact entrepreneurs directly without referrals?

[rms]

How do you think the VCs heard about you to start getting in touch? Are your private alpha users that influential? That's a pretty good sign.

And can I try your site? I signed up with the email kfischer at gmail

[shafqat]

I've worked really hard over the past few months to get the word out. I have a really active blog, and that helps a lot. Most of the interest has come through the blog. Leaving thoughtful comments on big blogs, twitter, and attending open coffees. It all adds up. Rather than focus on the big things, I've just spent a lot of time doing little things to build the buzz. I don't think it's our private alpha users - they would not be connected to VCs. Most VCs have said they stumbled across my blog or the site and liked the vision.

Just sent you an alpha invite.