Padel or (Pa)deal? Would you purposely throw a padel game to close a deal?

Meet Bruce, 32, avid padel player and beginner hyrox athlete, loves all things tech. Recent founder of a fintech start-up, seeking funding. He's weighing up whether throwing a few games in order to close an investment from potential investors is a good idea. Like any founder, he's competitive, he doesn't lose. Join us as he weighs up his options.

Networking has long extended beyond the boardroom, with sports like golf historically serving as a backdrop for forging business relationships. In recent years, padel has emerged as a popular choice for professionals looking to combine sport with networking. But when it comes to closing a deal, should you intentionally lose a game to win over a client or secure a business agreement?

Arguments for

Whether you think it will 'soften up' the opponent/investor to get a deal across the line or not is a difficult call to make, and you might lose your padel partner for life as a result. With that being said, some may argue that letting your opponent win can help build rapport and make your opponent lean in towards favourable terms after they log their victory on the playtomic app.

It's risky, but who's to say Bruce is good enough to win convincingly anyways?

Arguments against

We've all seen the episode in Friends where 'Corporate Chandler' tries to let his boss win. Monica however, saw straight through this and wouldn't stand for it. Intentionally losing can be a double-edged sword. Your opponent may see through the act and perceive it as disingenuous, potentially eroding trust. After all, business relationships are built on authenticity.

The Verdict

Playing your best game and winning can demonstrate your competence and confidence. It shows that you’re someone who takes every challenge seriously, whether on the court or in business. If you do win, just be sure to win with grace.

So, what would do you in Bruce’s situation? Throw the game with the hope of closing a pre-seed investment round, or sticking to your winning instinct and hoping that it would show your grit and determination to succeed both on and off the court?

Cheers,

The No Strings Team