Rethinking Excellence

First, I pay close attention to a person’s growth trajectory. For instance, if someone has spent many years at a major tech company, did their title change? Did the scope of their responsibilities evolve? Excellent people stand out wherever they are. They follow their own pace, much like trees that grow every year. I believe excellence is an attitude and a habit—it doesn’t suddenly appear just because the external environment changes.

Second, I look at how they think through key decisions. Since we invest in entrepreneurs rather than artists, we need someone with clear logic and market acumen—not someone who makes emotional, impulsive choices day after day.

Third, I observe how a person treats those around them. For example, when a few people sit together, who does the talking and who stays quiet? How do they introduce their colleagues or friends? Great people always praise others—they call them impressive. They genuinely respect their peers, and “my team is awesome” becomes their go-to phrase. This actually proves how capable the founder is: although they can lead the team, they respect them. The team follows not because of their title, but because they’re genuinely respected by the team. That kind of relationship—equal, collaborative, yet clearly authoritative—is the highest quality.

For more insights on industrial internet and the investor’s perspective, read the full article.

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