Getting introductions through mutual connections is crucial for founders to access investors, customers, and hires.

YC companies often receive numerous inbound offers from investors, contrasting with the common experience of founders who typically have to reach out to investors themselves.

In the early stages, founders should not prioritize marketing and PR, but as the product gains traction, they need to take charge of messaging and communication to ensure consistency and clarity. Developing personal relationships with journalists is crucial; they prefer talking to founders rather than PR representatives.

Founders should communicate in the easiest way for them, whether that's through podcasts, casual conversations, or writing, to reduce friction in sharing their ideas.

When preparing for press interviews, draft succinct answers to frequently asked questions that reporters typically ask early-stage startups.

YC helps shift the leverage back to founders, making it easier for them to connect with investors who treat them well, despite the fundraising process still being unpredictable.

When requesting a warm introduction to a journalist, draft the email for your contact to make it as easy as possible for them to help you.

We've started collaborating with the press, getting quoted in major publications like the Wall Street Journal and Financial Times, which benefits both us and the reporters.

The most interesting stories for press pitches will come from you, the founders, not from PR firms.