How Lightspeed found their newest hire… via Instagram DM
Venture firm Lightspeed has hired content creator Claire Zau to help the firm connect with founders and tech-curious audiences through social media. This move reflects a broader trend of venture firms building internal media arms to bypass traditional journalism and reach audiences directly.
Why it matters
It signals a shift in how venture capital firms source deals and build brand authority by integrating influencer marketing and creator-led media strategies.
Earlier this year, Lightspeed made headlines when it announced that Claire Zau, an investor and popular tech content creator, would join the venture firm. She has more than 100,000 followers on TikTok and over 250,000 followers on Instagram, where she breaks down the day’s biggest tech trends.
Lightspeed partners Josh Machiz and Zau stopped by the Equity studio to talk about the strategy behind their growing social media presence, their podcast, Lightwork, and how it all started with a direct message on Instagram.
“A lot of people want to participate in the future and are excited about technology,” Zau told Equity. “They just don’t have the facts presented to them in an accessible way. So that’s hopefully the role I feel very lucky and privileged to play.”
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