From Center Court to Venture Capital: Serena Williams' Top Leadership Takeaways

Inbound

October 10, 2024

From Center Court to Venture Capital: Serena Williams' Top Leadership Takeaways

When Serena Williams steps onto a stage (or tennis court), you know you're in for something extraordinary. At INBOUND 2024, the tennis legend and venture capitalist didn't disappoint. In conversation with tech journalist Kara Swisher, Williams shared insights from her journey from the tennis court to the boardroom, proving that her competitive spirit and drive for excellence translate seamlessly into the world of venture capital.

ACING THE TRANSITION INTO VC

Williams' path to venture capital wasn't a traditional one and she was drawn into the world of investing long before she hung up her tennis racket. "I naturally liked investing," Williams revealed.

Without even thinking about it, I was just drawn into what investing would be. Also early stage companies, without knowing anything about what that even meant, I loved seeing things grow in society as we know it today.

This innate interest in shaping the future led Williams to found Serena Ventures, a firm that's quickly making waves in the VC world, and has raised $111 million (coincidentally a trio of Williams’ favorite number).

Her move into venture capital is a great example of what can happen when you follow your instincts and explore new interests, even when they take you in unexpected directions. For B2B leaders, her story is a reminder to stay open to new opportunities and draw on your unique experiences — often, the best innovations come through the cross-pollination of diverse ideas.

INVESTING WITH PURPOSE AND IMPACT

Just as she dominated on the tennis court, Williams brings a unique and powerful perspective to her investment strategy. Her focus? Companies that make a real difference in people's lives.

We invest in everyday lives of everyday people. We want to look at those companies that are changing a lot of people's lives.

This approach has led Serena Ventures to back companies like Rebelstork, which is tackling the problem of waste in the baby product industry, and Esusu, a fintech unicorn helping renters build credit. It's a strategy that combines social impact with smart business sense and emphasizes the importance of creating real value by tackling real-world problems.

True innovation often comes from solving everyday challenges, and her philosophy is a reminder to focus on long-term impact and sustainable growth rather than short-term hype.

A NEW ERA IN VENTURE CAPITAL

Williams isn't just in the VC game; she's working to change it. Recognizing the stark lack of diversity in venture capital, she's using her platform to amplify underrepresented voices and open doors that have long been closed.

I think the one reason, the main reason, why I wanted to start this platform back in 2021 with our fund was because my platform can help other people learn.

"So maybe we won't be able to change. Actually, not maybe. We're absolutely not going to be able to change the landscape, but my voice will be heard, and then maybe someone else will catch on and then someone else," Williams added.

This effect is already being felt across the industry, as Williams champions diversity not just in founders, but also on cap tables and in investment teams.

Williams’ commitment to diversity in venture capital shows just how essential varied perspectives are in driving innovation. It’s a clear reminder for all leaders: diverse teams lead to better decision-making, more creative problem-solving, and ultimately, stronger business outcomes.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A CHAMPION?

The mindset that made Williams a tennis icon is the same one driving her success in venture capital: consistent performance, relentless drive, and the ability to perform under pressure.

In sports, you have to perform here every day to be great. I had to perform up there every day to be great because everyone wanted to beat me every single day I stepped out on the court.

Williams further reflected, "So just translating that into what I do at Ventures is invaluable. I'm always over-performing and overworking and understanding what it takes."

But perhaps the most inspiring moment came when Williams shared her definition of being a champion:

"I feel like everybody is a champion. I don't think you have to be winning Wimbledon... It's really just about giving your best effort in whatever you're doing and do it the best you can on that day."

Williams’ perspective on what it means to be a champion offers a more inclusive, realistic, and refreshing definition of success. It encourages a more holistic approach to evaluating performance and personal growth, with a focus on consistent effort rather than just big wins.

This mindset helps create a more supportive and productive workplace and is a reminder that long-term success is built on steady progress.

TAKEAWAYS

As the session came to a close, it was clear that Serena Williams is far from done making history. By bringing her unique perspective, relentless drive, and commitment to diversity to the world of VC, Williams is poised to change the game once again.

For the packed house at INBOUND 2024, the message was clear: whether you're on the tennis court, in the boardroom, or anywhere in between, success comes from consistently putting in the effort, embracing diverse points of view, and focusing on long-term impact.

Watch Serena Williams’ full INBOUND session here (note: video will be available on YouTube through October 18, 2024).