Slow Ventures Hosts Etiquette Finishing School for Tech Founders
Last week, Slow Ventures organized a unique event called the “Etiquette Finishing School” aimed at tech founders. The three-hour program covered a range of topics including the art of a perfect handshake, public speaking skills, and office decorum. The highlight of the event was a fashion show featuring models showcasing different looks for various occasions, followed by a closing lesson on caviar and wine.
According to The San Francisco Standard, the program received hundreds of applications from founders, out of which only 50 were accepted. Interestingly, the majority of the attendees were male.
The idea for the Finishing School reportedly started as a joke, with Slow Ventures gauging interest at Y Combinator’s Demo Day. Despite YC CEO Garry Tan advising against attending, Tan clarified on X that he had no issue with Slow Ventures. He emphasized the importance of focusing on building quality products and satisfying users.
One participant, who chose to remain anonymous, shared that they joined the program to refine their behavior and become more polished in professional settings.
During the event, Slow Ventures general partner Sam Lessin addressed the audience, highlighting the evolving nature of the tech industry. He emphasized the need for tech founders to be respectful and mindful of their impact on society, considering the growing concerns surrounding job displacement and societal changes caused by technology.
