Tim Draper: give value before monetizing the relationship
Richard paused his interview with Tim Draper to clarify what giving first meant. Was Draper talking about helping a potential customer and earning business later? The follow-up produced examples from education and investor relationships.
Richard tests his interpretation
Richard asked whether the sequence was to add value, build the relationship, and monetize later. Draper answered with scholarships at Draper University and help provided to limited partners before a later fundraising conversation.
The exchange has a cost
Giving first takes time or resources before any return is known. The interview offers examples of how Draper approached that trade. Richard's question keeps the discussion concrete by asking what happens before the commercial request.
In Richard's words
"add value to a potential customer build a relationship and then monetize that relationship later" (Richard C. Wilson, recorded library conversation)
How to use this
- Define the useful thing a person receives before you ask for business.
- Keep the initial help valuable even if the person never buys.
Questions and answers
Did Richard ask for clarification?
Yes. He asked whether Draper meant adding value before monetizing a relationship.
What examples did Draper give?
Scholarships for entrepreneurs and doing useful things for limited partners before raising another fund.