“SPEED” — Gary Vaynerchuk

Have An Objective.

Be Concise.

Don’t Be Romantic.

Make a Decision.

Move On.

I’m trying something different from my traditional philosophic prose. As I continue the process of building a new venture, I have learned a few principles about the nature of speed. This framework will help you save time and incentivize action regarding every new meeting you take.

1) Have An Objective

Every meeting needs an objective. Stop asking for coffee, advice, insights, etc. Instead, begin all of your intros, emails and meetings with a simple ask.

“I’m doing X, Can you help with Y?”

“I would love to hear your thoughts on X, in order to achieve Y.”

“I need your help creating X, so I can produce Y.”

“Do you have advice on X, I’m looking for Y”

2) Be Concise

Clear objectives remain concise. Every ask should be one sentence or less. This rule applies to email as well as in person.

3) Don’t Be Romantic

I used to get so nervous before a meeting with a big VC. I couldn’t sleep, think, eat, etc. Even though you may idolize the person across the table, forget the romance and get real. You deserve to be in this meeting (otherwise they wouldn’t have taken your request!) Get to the point and get out.

4) Make a Decision

All good meetings should end with a decision. Get a definitive yes or no.

Something like “Yes, I would like to help you complete X. I will do Y.

Or “No. I’m sorry I can’t help.”

As direct as it is, Sam Altman ends every pitch with “Would you like to invest?” This is the perfect use of a definitive yes or no proposition. Do this and you will incentivize every ask toward action at the end of your meeting.

5) Move On

Get the deal done. Then leave. Move on and get back to work. Meetings mean nothing compared to actually building the future.