Living and working in Silicon Valley, social skill is one of the most important skills for the people who want to start a business. There are loads of networking session going on every day in Silicon Valley. Most of the time, a few guest speakers would be invited to the networking session to give a talk based on certain topic (eg. web2.0, seed financing, facebook application, etc) I will go for networking session for at least two times per week. During the networking session, I always want to maximize my time to know more people, and try to socialize with people. However, after a few months, I suddenly realize that very few of the people I met in the networking session are still in touch.
Never Schmooze
Instead of schmoozing, engaging in the wondering-eye routine, it would be better to spend half an hour on longer with one person, and have some meaningful conversation.
Be Sincere
Yesterday, I watched “The Terminal” with my friends. It’s my second time to watch this movie. But this time, I keep asking myself one question: Why do I like him so much and respect him? The answer is he is sincere and honest. It applies to building relationship with people. Relationship is only built when people help each other, and trust each other. I have met some very successful business people, there is one thing in common about them is: Always treat the people in front of them with full respect, and offer help without expecting any return.
