Quick Takeaways
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Etiquette Focus: Slow Ventures hosted a three-hour “Etiquette Finishing School” in San Francisco, addressing essential skills like public speaking and professional decorum, complete with a fashion show for various occasions.
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High Demand, Exclusive Attendance: Hundreds of founders applied, but only 50 were accepted into the complimentary program, predominantly attended by male founders.
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Origins and Skepticism: The initiative originated from a humorous idea during Y Combinator’s Demo Day, with YC CEO Garry Tan advising against participation, emphasizing the importance of building quality products instead.
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Shift in Tech Culture: Slow Ventures’ Sam Lessin highlighted the evolving tech landscape, warning attendees that professionalism and respect are now crucial as technology impacts jobs and environments significantly.
Reimagining Professionalism
Recently, Slow Ventures hosted an “Etiquette Finishing School” aimed at tech founders. This three-hour program covered fundamental topics like the perfect handshake and public speaking. The event even included a fashion show showcasing appropriate attire for varied occasions. Attendees learned about office decorum and concluded with a lesson on caviar and wine. Such sessions may seem trivial at first glance. However, they signify an evolving tech culture that increasingly values professionalism.
Interestingly, hundreds of founders applied, but only 50 secured spots. The event attracted a predominantly male audience. Despite skepticism from some industry leaders, who emphasized the importance of building great products, the event’s popularity reflects a growing consciousness around soft skills in tech. Founders themselves express a desire for refinement; one attendee admitted he wanted to be “less feral.”
The Shift in Tech Culture
The transition from playful tech startups to serious industry disruptors necessitates a different approach. As the landscape intensifies, founders must recognize the importance of respect and professionalism. Slow Ventures’ general partner pointed out that the stakes are higher. Tech companies affect real lives and jobs; hence, founders cannot afford to be dismissive. Instead, they should strive to create a positive work environment and foster relationships.
The concept of a finishing school might seem archaic, yet it serves a vital purpose today. By equipping founders with essential social skills, this initiative could help them navigate complex professional landscapes. As tech continues to influence society, embracing etiquette may well become a requisite. Events like these signal a broader shift, encouraging a culture that balances innovation with responsibility and respect.
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