Talking to Humans

In 'Talking to Humans', Giff Constable, Frank Rimalovski, and Tom Fishburne reveal the art of effective customer interviews that can transform your startup ideas into successful realities. This practical guide demystifies the process of engaging with potential users, providing insightful techniques to gather valuable feedback. With an emphasis on empathy and understanding, the authors challenge conventional wisdom about market validation. The book is filled with real-world examples that illustrate the powerful impact of genuine conversations. Dive in to discover how mastering dialogue with humans can unlock the secrets to entrepreneurial success!

By Giff Constable, Frank Rimalovski, Tom Fishburne

Published: 2014

Talking to HumansBook binding

Start Listening

Play Preview

You might also like →

The Lean StartupBook binding

The Lean Startup

Eric Ries

BlitzscalingBook binding

Blitzscaling

Reid Hoffman, Chris Yeh

MakersBook binding

Makers

Chris Anderson

Play BiggerBook binding

Play Bigger

Al Ramadan, Dave Peterson, Christopher Lochhead, Kevin Maney

Lean AnalyticsBook binding

Lean Analytics

Alistair Croll, Benjamin Yoskovitz

Fanatical ProspectingBook binding

Fanatical Prospecting

Jeb Blount

Super PumpedBook binding

Super Pumped

Mike Isaac

Innovation and EntrepreneurshipBook binding

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Peter F. Drucker

The FoundersBook binding

The Founders

Jimmy Soni

The New New Thing: A Silicon Valley StoryBook binding

The New New Thing: A Silicon Valley Story

Michael Lewis

From Impossible To InevitableBook binding

From Impossible To Inevitable

Aaron Ross, Jason Lemkin

SprintBook binding

Sprint

Jake Knapp, John Zeratsky, Braden Kowitz

The Airbnb StoryBook binding

The Airbnb Story

Leigh Gallagher (Journalist)

What is RealityBook binding

What is Reality

Ervin Laszlo, Ervin Laszlo Ph. D.

11 Rules for Creating Value In #SocialEraBook binding

11 Rules for Creating Value In #SocialEra

Nilofer Merchant

Ready, Fire, AimBook binding

Ready, Fire, Aim

Michael Masterson

Growth Hacker MarketingBook binding

Growth Hacker Marketing

Ryan Holiday

The Four Steps to the EpiphanyBook binding

The Four Steps to the Epiphany

Steve Blank

Startup RisingBook binding

Startup Rising

Christopher Schröder

Chaos MonkeysBook binding

Chaos Monkeys

Antonio Garcia Martinez

Blood and Guts in High SchoolBook binding

Blood and Guts in High School

Kathy Acker, Chris Kraus

A Splendid ExchangeBook binding

A Splendid Exchange

William J. Bernstein

Growth IQBook binding

Growth IQ

Tiffani Bova

The Innovation Blind SpotBook binding

The Innovation Blind Spot

Ross Baird

Do More FasterBook binding

Do More Faster

Brad Feld, David B. Cohen

The Startup Owner's ManualBook binding

The Startup Owner's Manual

Steven Gary Blank, Bob Dorf

Book Collections you might like →

Marty Cagan's Book Recommendations

Marty Cagan's Book Recommendations

Marty Cagan is a renowned product management expert and founding partner of the Silicon Valley Product Group (SVPG). He is best known for his influential book "Inspired: How To Create Products Customers Love," which has become a seminal text in the field of product management. With a career spanning decades, Cagan has held key leadership roles at tech giants such as Hewlett-Packard, Netscape Communications, and eBay. His contributions extend beyond authorship, as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements, workshops, and advisory roles to help companies build successful product teams. Cagan's work has profoundly shaped modern product management practices and continues to inspire product leaders worldwide.

View Collection
Chris Dixon's Book Recommendations

Chris Dixon's Book Recommendations

Chris Dixon is a notable venture capitalist and technology entrepreneur, best known for his influential role as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, where he leads investments in cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Before joining the firm, Dixon co-founded two startups: SiteAdvisor, a web security company acquired by McAfee, and Hunch, a recommendation engine acquired by eBay. In addition to his investment career, Dixon is a prolific writer and thought leader on technology and innovation, contributing insightful essays and articles to various platforms such as his personal blog and Medium. His writings often explore the future of technology, the internet, and the impact of blockchain, making significant contributions to contemporary tech literature. Dixon's work has earned him recognition as a visionary in both the tech and literary worlds.

View Collection
Sean Ellis's Book Recommendations

Sean Ellis's Book Recommendations

Sean Ellis is a prolific author known for his riveting contributions to the thriller and adventure genres. He has penned numerous novels, including the popular Nick Kismet series, which has captivated readers with its blend of historical intrigue and action-packed storytelling. Ellis’s work often reflects his deep interest in archaeology and mythology, adding rich layers of authenticity to his plots. In addition to his novels, he has co-authored several works with other prominent writers, further cementing his reputation in the literary world. His engaging narratives and well-researched backgrounds have garnered a dedicated following and critical acclaim.

View Collection
Ron Conway's Book Recommendations

Ron Conway's Book Recommendations

Ron Conway is an American angel investor and philanthropist, often referred to as the “Godfather of Silicon Valley” for his early investments in companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter. As the founder of SV Angel, Conway has backed hundreds of startups and played a key role in the growth of the tech industry. He is known for his extensive network and ability to connect entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed. In addition to his work in tech, Conway is involved in philanthropy, particularly in areas like education and public health. His contributions to both Silicon Valley and charitable causes have earned him widespread recognition.

View Collection
Jack Ma's Book Recommendations

Jack Ma's Book Recommendations

Jack Ma is a Chinese entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the co-founder of Alibaba Group, one of the world’s largest e-commerce and technology conglomerates. Born into a humble family in Hangzhou, China, Ma faced numerous rejections, including from KFC, before founding Alibaba in 1999. His vision for Alibaba was to empower small businesses to compete on a global scale through the internet. Under his leadership, Alibaba grew into an international powerhouse, diversifying into cloud computing, digital payments, and entertainment. Ma’s charismatic leadership and bold business strategies made him one of the most influential figures in tech and a symbol of entrepreneurial success. In 2020, Ma stepped down from Alibaba's board but continues his philanthropic work, particularly in education, environmental sustainability, and public health. He is also known for his advocacy of embracing failure and persistence in the face of adversity, inspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.

View Collection
Biz Stone's Book Recommendations

Biz Stone's Book Recommendations

Biz Stone is an American entrepreneur, co-founder of Twitter, and a key figure in the development of social media. Stone helped launch Twitter in 2006, transforming the way people communicate and share information globally. He has also co-founded other companies, including Xanga, Blogger, and Medium, and is involved in various philanthropic efforts through The Biz and Livia Stone Foundation. Stone is known for his creative thinking and his belief in the power of technology to create positive change in the world. His work has left a lasting impact on digital communication and media innovation.

View Collection
Ana Fabrega's Book Recommendations

Ana Fabrega's Book Recommendations

Ana Lorena Fabrega is an innovative educator and author passionate about reimagining education. Known as “Ms. Fab,” she is the Chief Evangelist at Synthesis, an education startup inspired by the problem-solving and collaboration model used at SpaceX. She advocates for alternative learning methods, encouraging curiosity and creativity in students. Ana's work emphasizes the importance of engaging young learners in real-world challenges and critical thinking. She also shares insights on education reform through her popular newsletter, Fab Fridays.

View Collection
Audrey Gelman's Book Recommendations

Audrey Gelman's Book Recommendations

Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.

View Collection
Anu Hariharan's Book Recommendations

Anu Hariharan's Book Recommendations

Anu Hariharan is a distinguished partner at Y Combinator's Continuity Fund, where she has been instrumental in scaling numerous startups into successful enterprises. With a strong background in economics and technology, she has become a respected voice in the venture capital community. Hariharan has also made significant contributions through her writing on startup growth and investment strategies, offering insightful analyses and practical advice to entrepreneurs. Her work is frequently featured in leading business publications, showcasing her expertise in the tech industry. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Hariharan is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the startup ecosystem.

View Collection
Drew Houston's Book Recommendations

Drew Houston's Book Recommendations

Drew Houston is an accomplished American entrepreneur best known for co-founding Dropbox, a widely-used cloud storage service, in 2007. As the CEO, he has led the company to serve millions of users worldwide and become a key player in the tech industry. Although not primarily known for literature, Houston has shared his entrepreneurial insights and experiences through various interviews and public speaking engagements, offering valuable lessons to aspiring business leaders. His work has significantly influenced the way people and organizations manage and share digital content. Houston's innovative vision continues to shape the future of cloud computing and digital collaboration.

View Collection
Leo Polovets's Book Recommendations

Leo Polovets's Book Recommendations

Leo Polovets is a prominent figure in the tech and venture capital world, known for his insightful writings on startups and software engineering. As a co-founder of Susa Ventures, he has significantly impacted the investment landscape by backing early-stage companies with innovative solutions. Polovets's blog and articles have garnered attention for their clarity and depth, providing valuable guidance to entrepreneurs and engineers alike. His expertise is grounded in his technical background, having previously worked as an early engineer at LinkedIn and Factual. Polovets continues to influence the industry through his thought leadership and strategic investments.

View Collection
Bill Gurley's Book Recommendations

Bill Gurley's Book Recommendations

Bill Gurley is a prominent venture capitalist and general partner at Benchmark, a Silicon Valley venture capital firm. He is best known for his early investments in groundbreaking companies such as Uber, Zillow, and Grubhub, significantly shaping the tech industry's landscape. Gurley's insights into technology and business have been widely disseminated through his influential blog, "Above the Crowd," where he discusses market trends and investment strategies. His thought leadership extends beyond finance, offering valuable perspectives on innovation and entrepreneurship. Bill Gurley's contributions have earned him recognition as one of the most influential figures in venture capital today.

View Collection
Joel Connolly's Book Recommendations

Joel Connolly's Book Recommendations

Joel Connolly is an acclaimed author renowned for his evocative storytelling and profound explorations of human nature. His debut novel, "Silent Whispers," garnered critical acclaim and won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary literature. Connolly's works often delve into themes of identity, loss, and redemption, resonating deeply with a diverse readership. In addition to his novels, he has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile writer. Connolly continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide with his compelling narratives and insightful prose.

View Collection
David Cancel's Book Recommendations

David Cancel's Book Recommendations

David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.

View Collection
Andrew Chen's Book Recommendations

Andrew Chen's Book Recommendations

Andrew Chen is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in growth marketing, currently serving as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Chen is known for his expertise in network effects, viral growth strategies, and marketplace dynamics, making him a sought-after advisor for startups looking to scale. Prior to joining Andreessen Horowitz, he worked in leadership roles at Uber, helping to grow the ride-sharing platform’s user base and develop key growth strategies. Chen is also a prolific writer, sharing his insights on growth, technology, and startups through his popular blog and newsletter, which has attracted a loyal following in the tech community. His work has helped shape how many startups approach user acquisition, retention, and product-market fit. As a venture capitalist, Chen focuses on early-stage companies in the consumer internet, SaaS, and marketplace sectors, and he has been involved in funding and advising several successful startups. His insights on technology and growth continue to influence both founders and investors alike.

View Collection
Albert Wenger's Book Recommendations

Albert Wenger's Book Recommendations

Albert Wenger is a prominent venture capitalist and author, best known for his insightful contributions to the intersection of technology and society. As a managing partner at Union Square Ventures, he has invested in and mentored numerous groundbreaking startups, significantly shaping the digital landscape. Wenger is the author of "World After Capital," a thought-provoking book that explores the implications of a post-capitalist society driven by abundant knowledge and digital innovation. His work has sparked important discussions about the future of work, education, and governance in an increasingly automated world. Beyond his writing, Wenger is a sought-after speaker and influential thought leader in the tech community.

View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates's Book Recommendations

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.

View Collection
Brian Chesky's Book Recommendations

Brian Chesky's Book Recommendations

Brian Chesky is an American entrepreneur and co-founder of Airbnb, the online platform that allows people to rent out their homes or find accommodations in private properties. Chesky helped transform the travel and hospitality industry by creating a marketplace for home-sharing that operates in over 190 countries. Under his leadership, Airbnb has become a global phenomenon, valued at billions of dollars, and has expanded into experiences and luxury travel. Chesky is also focused on philanthropy, having signed the Giving Pledge to donate the majority of his wealth. His work in the sharing economy has made him one of the most influential entrepreneurs of the 21st century.

View Collection
Ryan Hoover's Book Recommendations

Ryan Hoover's Book Recommendations

Ryan Hoover is the founder of Product Hunt, a popular platform where users discover and share new tech products, apps, and tools. Hoover started Product Hunt as a side project, which quickly grew into a thriving community for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. The platform has helped launch countless startups and has become an essential resource for finding innovative products. In addition to Product Hunt, Hoover is an investor and writer, often sharing insights on startup culture and product development. His work has made him a key figure in the tech and startup ecosystems.

View Collection
Brandon Sanderson's Book Recommendations

Brandon Sanderson's Book Recommendations

Brandon Sanderson is a bestselling author known for his epic fantasy series, including The Stormlight Archive and Mistborn. His intricate world-building, complex magic systems, and well-developed characters have earned him a dedicated fanbase. Sanderson was chosen to complete Robert Jordan’s Wheel of Time series, further cementing his status as a master of modern fantasy. His work is celebrated for its imaginative scope and intricate storytelling, making him one of the most prominent authors in the genre today. Sanderson also shares his knowledge of writing through lectures and courses, inspiring future writers.

View Collection
Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.

View Collection
Andy Budd's Book Recommendations

Andy Budd's Book Recommendations

Andy Budd is a renowned author and user experience (UX) designer, best known for his influential work in the field of web design. He co-authored "CSS Mastery: Advanced Web Standards Solutions," which has become a seminal text for web developers worldwide. As a founding partner of the consulting firm Clearleft, Budd has made significant contributions to advancing UX design practices. He is also a sought-after speaker at design conferences and an active advocate for the design community. Through his writing and leadership, Budd continues to shape the future of digital design.

View Collection
Seth Godin's Book Recommendations

Seth Godin's Book Recommendations

Seth Godin is a prolific author and entrepreneur, renowned for his influential contributions to marketing and business thought leadership. He has written over 20 bestselling books, including "Purple Cow," "Linchpin," and "The Dip," which have revolutionized modern marketing strategies and inspired countless professionals. Godin's work emphasizes the importance of creativity, innovation, and the power of ideas in building successful enterprises. He is also the founder of altMBA, an online leadership and management workshop, and he consistently shares his insights through his popular daily blog. Godin's impact on the marketing world has earned him a spot in the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame.

View Collection
Keith Rabois's Book Recommendations

Keith Rabois's Book Recommendations

Keith Rabois is a prominent American entrepreneur, investor, and author known for his significant contributions to the tech industry and startup ecosystem. He played crucial roles in the early success of companies like PayPal, LinkedIn, Square, and Yelp, earning a reputation as a skilled operator and strategic thinker. As a partner at Founders Fund and later at Khosla Ventures, Rabois has invested in and advised numerous successful startups. In addition to his business ventures, he has written insightful articles and essays on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, contributing to the broader discourse on these subjects. Rabois continues to influence the tech world with his strategic insights and thought leadership.

View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

View Collection

Frequently Asked Questions