I think this story also shows how super-important connections can be. This guy was well connected in the valley.
The question is, how can someone who moves there from, say, New York, actually make those connections?
The question is, how can someone who moves there from, say, New York, actually make those connections?
That said, getting to know the up-and-coming Valley entrepreneurs should be doable. It is not as easy as getting to know them while you are in college but go to conventions, go to coffee shops, bars. If that is not your thing, start conversations on HN, Twitter, professional communities etc. One important thing to remember, people love to talk about themselves and their business. Especially entrepreneurs.
On a personal level, I am finishing up my Masters (in Amsterdam - so no where close to 'The Valley') and I really feel that I should have done more networking. It is not that hard to get to know people if you make an effort but I have been way too comfortable with my group(s)of friends.
Am I the only one who cringes when reading stories like this about the Valley? I do not want to be in a bubble. I do not want to take part in gossip or the popularity contest. I would much rather stay under the radar, out of the sights of competition, in an underserved market.
We do miss out a lot of startup action but there are still large startups in Europe, and I assume Singapore. I do think making connections via HN/Twitter etc can mitigate some of the issues caused by geography but not entirely.
Talking to people in your industry (especially if your speciality is quite niche) goes a fairly long way. Perhaps someone in your niche went to your alma mater, or lived in Singapore - that is something in common that can spark a conversation.
I would say a better question is, how does someone who grows up poor do this? And/or someone with parents who do not give them access to excellent schooling. And/or currently feels excluded from the industry despite being talented.
Not that it isn't a story, it sure ain't Horatio Alger, though.