---
title: Networking words of wisdom from the future | Spacecubed
description: Founder of DIY building plan startup Udrew Tom Young writes a list to his former self on how to prepare for a networking trip.
image: https://blog.spacecubed.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/5b173116bdf356793d27f411_Udrew_Studio.jpeg
---
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# Networking words of wisdom from the future
By Spacecubed 5 June 2018
Dear Pre-trip Tom,
I am still buzzing from the upcoming trip you’re about to have to San Francisco for [Udrew](http://www.udrew.com.au/), so here’s some tips to get you ready for what’s to come:
**Practice your elevator pitch!**
You know your stuff, so don’t sweat it – it is nothing to be nervous or self-conscious about. Be yourself.
**Ask questions**
Don’t be afraid to talk to the team and ask for feedback – you’ll get honest answers, good support and maybe even something you had not considered.
**Take personal downtime**
Know and understand your burnout point and take five if needed. It’s better to have a temporary rest than burn out completely. Allow yourself to have that small breather every now and then.
**Be prepared**
Prepare for every meeting by defining questions and listing your goal and outcomes prior.
*Tom Young being interviewed on '* [*This week in startups with Jason Calacanis*](https://youtu.be/SwIzohBwFaY?t=59m22s) *'*
**A bit about food**
Tenderloin is not as delicious as it sounds, with the exception to Ike’s Sandwich Shop on the corner of O’Farrell and Polk Street. Also, a small McValue meal from McDonald’s is a lot bigger than a large meal in Australia.
**Tipping**
Don’t try to understand it. Just tip 20 percent for everything and you’ll be fine.
**Twice of everything**
That means whatever budget you’re thinking about for the trip, double it. Need to bring warm clothes? Double it.
**Know the standard dress code**
Sneakers, jeans and a t-shirt are considered normal meeting attire.
**Turn up the confidence**
Learn to 'Americanise' your point of view and your pitch – do not be so conservative or pessimistic about what you do.
**Enjoy the moment**
There is some strange form of dignity involved in washing your clothes in the motel bathtub. Remember why you’ve made the trip, and learn to soak it all up.
*Thinking of taking the next step with your startup? Learn more about the* [*Plus Eight Accelerator*](https://pluseight.spacecubed.com/accelerator) *and how you can be a part of WA's leading startup hub – complete with a global network of mentors, investors and partners to support your startup.*
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