What Is a Principal's Proxy?
A principal's proxy is someone who acts on behalf of a founder or senior executive, the principal, when the principal's own name would change the answer.
When a CEO asks a question, it becomes an official request. When a founder shows interest, it becomes news. So a proxy goes instead, finds out what the principal needs to know, and brings it back.
That is what I do at Centerfugue.
Whose side is a proxy on?
Yours. I work for the principal, and everyone I speak to knows I am acting for someone.
My rules
- I always say I am acting for someone. Who that is stays private unless you want it known.
- I never lie about who I am.
- I will not approach anyone who has said no.
- I bring back what I learn, good or bad.
What a proxy does
- Sounds out an investor, buyer or partner before any formal approach
- Finds out whether a burned bridge can be rebuilt, with an ex-co-founder or a client you lost
- Approaches someone for you without it turning into an official ask
- Sits in on a call or meeting for you and tells you what really happened
What a proxy does not do
I do not negotiate contracts, give legal advice or speak to the press. I will not deliver a message you should be delivering yourself. And I never commit you to anything you have not cleared.
Things people ask
Is a proxy the same as a lawyer or an agent?
No. A lawyer or an agent can sign and negotiate for you. I cannot, and I will not. My job is to find out, explore and report back.
Will the other person know it is me?
Not unless you want them to. They will know I am acting for someone, and that is all.
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