It’s like … but …

How I developed my words for the thing with the thing

“It’s like Yellow Pages, but better.” Or something like that.

As I’ve grown, I’ve begun to realize more and more that communication, regardless of what context it’s used under, is, quite frankly, one of the most important skills of working in an organization. But we all know that.

So what’s the big deal?

I’m currently between my Freshman and Sophomore years at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA. I’m majoring in Computer Science and Robotics. I work at thumbtack as a software engineering intern. And I pride myself on being comfortable in front of people.

I’m often asked a question by peers, extended family, and strangers:

What does thumbtack do?

For most startups in San Francisco, that’s an easy question to answer — “it’s like … but …” But to be completely honest, I don’t think that answer could be further from the right one.

We’re taught to associate things that are similar with each other. And that’s perfectly reasonable — internally. But there’s something to be said for describing an idea, a startup, an anything — uniquely.

So there’s my thesis: describe those things that you’re passionate about in a unique way; that thing that’s being built, that story that’s being worked on — it’s unique, so describe it that way.

So what does thumbtack do? “Thumbtack’s a product that connects average people with service professionals to help them accomplish their personal projects, whether they be learning a new instrument, remodeling their house, or putting on a wedding.”

I’ve learned to describe it in one sentence. It’s short. It’s simple. It’s unique.