The First Bite Is With the Eyes: Greg and the Investor Idea
Back inside Steve’s apartment, Steve and Greg walked toward the living room. Greg laughed, “So, shot down again, eh? Steve, for Pete's sake.” Steve was not amused. “I'm sorry! I was trying to learn more about these millionaires and how they make their money.” Greg shook his head. “Yeah, okay, Steve, I understand that. But, what about your rent? Did you manage to make any actual money?”
As Steve pulled out a wad of bills, Greg quietly took out his checkbook to write a check to help his friend. “I got some tips,” Steve replied.
Greg was not impressed. “Oy!” He rolled his eyes and sighed. He looked down at the money in Steve’s hand. “Look, Steve, I just made a sale today; I can help you out.”
“Oh, Greg, no. You don't have to do that.”
“Steve, we're buds - best buds - and this is what buds do for each other. Besides, I have faith in you; I'm sure you'll hit a good idea one of these days.” With a forlorn look, however, Greg gave the check to Steve, knowing he wouldn’t be paid back anytime soon.
“Thanks, man, for everything,” Steve said quietly. “So, you made a sale, eh? Not many realtors can say that these days. A good one?”
“Eh, okay. The lady seems to have money, but she also seems cautious, which is also to be expected these days.”
“Really? You think she'd invest in a new business?” Steve asked.
“Huh, I don't know. But she does own an art gallery- a really good one. I mean, the works there cost more than my car!”
“Art, huh? Gee, Greg, I always wanted to learn how to paint. I’ve played around with it a bit, but it seems I never really have time to learn.”
“Steve, focus. It’s not like she offers lessons! But she probably has some wealthy people who buy art from her. Now, if we could meet up with them and pitch a decent business plan, we might get some investors. What do you think?”
“I think we've got the seed of an idea! But what can we pitch to them?”
“Hey, you're the idea man, Come up with something! Just make sure that it's good and that you've got a good presentation. Remember, it's like fine dining: the first bite is always with the eyes.”