Ask an Alum - LSE Generate

Connect with LSE Alumni

Have a question about starting or running your startup? Share your challenge with over 230,000 LSE alumni to get insights, support and connections.

You ask.
They answer.

LSE alumni are keen to help students and fellow alumni.

Need inspiration? Here's what others like you have asked.

“I’m the founder of a health-tech startup. We initially launched a product aimed at improving patient data management, but after some market feedback, it seems that the product is not fully meeting the needs of our target audience. I’m currently exploring a pivot and would love to hear from other entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated a product pivot. How did you approach identifying a new product-market fit, and what strategies did you use to validate the new direction? Any advice on how to pivot without losing momentum or alienating your current customers would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for your advice and support as we work through this challenge!”

“I’m the founder of a fintech startup working on a platform that facilitates cross-border payments. As we prepare for expansion into new markets, we’re facing legal and regulatory challenges that are slowing down our progress. I’m looking for advice on how to navigate the legal and regulatory landscape as a startup, especially in highly regulated industries like fintech. How did you handle compliance and legal hurdles when expanding into new markets, and are there specific resources or strategies that helped you? Any insights into dealing with international regulations would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for sharing your expertise! We’re eager to move past these hurdles and grow our business. “

“I’m the founder of an e-commerce startup specializing in custom-made accessories. We’re a few months into launching our business, and while we have a decent number of sales, we’re struggling to build a strong and recognizable brand. I’d love to hear from other entrepreneurs who have successfully built a brand in the early stages. What were the key strategies you used to build brand recognition, and how did you ensure your brand message resonated with your target audience? Any tips on creating a compelling brand story and fostering customer loyalty would be really valuable as we continue to develop our brand. Thank you so much for your insights – I’m excited to learn from your experiences as we work on strengthening our brand!”

How It Works

01 You ask.

Submit a question related to your course topic.

02 We recruit.

Our technology (powered by Protopia) uses AI to find the best experts to answer you.

03 Get answers.

We persist until you have one or more responses. Delivered right to your email inbox.

04 Say ‘thank you.’

And build your network by continuing to stay in touch (such as via LinkedIn).

Not sure how to ask? We’ve got a short video that will turn you into a networking pro.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I ask?

Literally anything to help with your academic or professional development. There are thousands of alumni, academics, staff and friends that can help with building and growing a startup, personal development, or figuring out career options.

What is a good question?

Think of your question as an advertisement. Share who you are, what you are doing, and what you need help with. Keep it short and sweet. Here’s a short video on how to craft a great question that will get you results and help build your network.

Can I ask a follow-up question?

Yes, of course! Once we make a match you’ll have direct, one-to-one communication and can ask additional questions.

Who will see my question?

We send your request to the best alumni, academics, and staff in your area of interest. Members of staff at LSE, including LSE Careers, may use the content of your question to improve programming. Using this Service will not influence any current or future application to the School.

Can I request someone specific to receive my question?

No. We make our matches based on availability, proximity, experience, and skills.

Is there a limit to how often I can ask?

No, you can ask as many questions as you would like. In fact, we encourage it as this is the simplest way for you to build your professional network.

Will my questions and responses be confidential?

Your question will not be made public. It will be seen only by matched experts and a handful of administrators.

How long will it take to get an answer?

We aim to get you answers within 3 business days. But it depends on what you’re asking. It can go as quickly as an hour to as long as 10 days or more.

"Very helpful! The first response was good but I followed up with another question and he was able to help me even further!"

"This is a great service! I love how it provides a platform to easily connect with alumni who are willing to help. The response from an alumni member answered all my questions and I hope to be able to further this connection."

Go ahead and ask

It has never been simpler to get help from others that have done what’s ahead of you.

The use of Ask an Alum is subject to our Terms Of Use. Questions? Contact us at alumni@mail.lse.ac.uk.