## The Rise of “Finishing School” for Tech Founders: Why Soft Skills are the New Hard Skills
In the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley,a surprising trend is emerging: tech founders are enrolling in ”finishing school.” This isn’t about learning to waltz or properly set a table (though those skills *were* covered!).It’s a focused effort to cultivate etiquette and refine the often-overlooked soft skills crucial for navigating the complexities of leadership and public perception. Recent reports indicate a growing recognition that technical brilliance alone isn’t enough to build lasting success – especially as tech’s influence expands into every facet of life.
Slow Ventures recently hosted a three-hour intensive, attracting hundreds of applicants for just 50 spots. This program, held at the Four Seasons in San Francisco, covered everything from mastering the perfect handshake to understanding the nuances of office decorum, culminating in a lesson on caviar and wine pairing. But what’s driving this demand, and is it a genuine need or a superficial fix?
Did You Know? A 2023 study by LinkedIn revealed that 92% of recruiters believe soft skills are equally or more critically important than hard skills when making hiring decisions. This highlights a significant shift in the professional landscape.
## Why the Sudden Focus on Etiquette?
The impetus behind this trend stems from a growing awareness of tech’s impact on society. As Sam Lessin,general partner at slow Ventures,articulated,”Tech is no longer playful and cute. It’s taking people’s jobs and changing environments.” This realization underscores the need for founders to demonstrate respect and empathy, moving beyond a purely disruptive mindset. The perception of tech leaders as aloof or insensitive has fueled negative public sentiment, impacting everything from regulatory scrutiny to brand reputation.
One anonymous founder attending the Slow Ventures program admitted to wanting to learn how to be “less feral.” This candid statement speaks volumes about the prevailing culture within some tech circles – a culture that often prioritizes innovation over interpersonal skills.The demand for soft skills training isn’t about abandoning ambition; it’s about learning to wield influence responsibly and effectively.
Pro Tip: Practice active listening in every interaction. Truly hearing and understanding others builds trust and demonstrates respect – foundational elements of strong leadership.
Though, the initiative hasn’t been without its critics. Y Combinator CEO Garry Tan initially discouraged founders from attending, stating, “You don’t need finishing school. You need to build something great, make your users happy, and have craftsmanship.” While his point about prioritizing product development is valid, it overlooks the crucial role of leadership and communication in achieving that success. Tan later clarified his position, acknowledging “no beef with Slow Ventures,” but the debate highlights a fundamental tension within the tech community.
Is this a necessary course correction, or a distraction from the core mission of building innovative products? What are your thoughts on the role of etiquette in the tech world?
### Beyond handshakes: The Core Components of Tech Founder etiquette
The Slow Ventures program touched on several key areas. these extend far beyond superficial manners and delve into the heart of effective communication and relationship building:
- Public Speaking: Articulating a vision clearly and persuasively is essential for attracting investors, recruiting talent, and building public support.
- nonverbal Communication: Body language, eye contact, and tone of voice considerably impact how messages are received.
- Professional Demeanor: Projecting confidence, respect, and integrity builds trust and credibility.
- Social Graces: Navigating social situations with ease fosters positive relationships and strengthens networks.
- Business Dining Etiquette: Knowing how to conduct yourself at a business meal demonstrates respect for your colleagues and clients.
These skills aren’t merely about appearing polished; they’re about fostering genuine connections and building a sustainable,ethical business. The rise
