The era of transactional, "what-can-you-do-for-me" networking is dying, if not officially dead. And as a community oriented person, I’m not sad to see it go. If we aren't leading with community, we’re just moving deck chairs on a corporate ship. Innovation doesn't start with a pitch deck or a term sheet; it starts with a person.

Valentine’s Day is a season of high expectations. But whether we are looking at a romantic partner, a co-founder, or a family member, we aren't usually reacting to the person in front of us.