High energy. High octane. Real. Present. Authentic. Grateful. That’s Gary Vaynerchuck @garyvee when you see him live. Don’t ask Gary a question you don’t want answered with brutal honesty.

Gary’s one hour conversation was social, real time and highly interactive.

He is Web 2.0.

My take-aways:

* Recognize that we are ALL in the customer service business.

* Stop worrying about your number of “followers” or “friends” and start focusing on really connecting with people.

* There is no quick sale. There are only relationships.

* Stick to your true north, your core principles. Without passion, you are going to lose. Don’t put out products, services you will never use.

* Scale will come by surrounding yourself with really good people. Treat them well. Trust them. Your people will give you your freedom.

* Work/Life “balance” will always be a challenge – though easier when you love what you do.

p.s. Mark your calendars and get ready to Crush It!, Gary is an 85 Broads E.Forum speaker on June 24 in New York.