Alvin's approach puts the most crucial information at the top with a "less is more" philosophy. In B2B environments where attention spans are limited, leading with the business problem and solution before providing supporting context increases message effectiveness. As Alvin puts it: "This is the intention grabber... I only have 5 seconds of your time and then everything else is bonus."

Instead of self-promotional messaging about being "the best" or "the smartest," Alvin focuses on highlighting portfolio relationships. "What you can really lean on is the customer... having that great relationship with them and letting them speak to it." This customer-centric approach creates authenticity that resonates particularly well in the tight-knit tech ecosystem.

TriplePoint's success came from in-person relationship building, which Alvin complemented rather than replaced with digital marketing. He created a framework where digital content supports relationship-driven business development through newsletters, website updates, and educational content. This hybrid approach maintains the exclusive feel while expanding reach.

Alvin formalized previously ad-hoc partner relationships with banks and other investors, providing structure that enhanced collaboration. For tech marketers managing complex channel or partner ecosystems, his approach demonstrates how marketing can systematize relationships that were previously managed inconsistently.

When joining an organization that hasn't prioritized marketing before, Alvin recommends spending the first three months educating stakeholders on marketing's value. "If they do not [understand the value of marketing], your job is already really difficult." Creating a year-long plan with clear quarterly milestones helps build credibility and secure buy-in for longer-term initiatives.

VC marketing requires a generalist approach rather than specialization. "If you ask any VC operator what they do, they're like, 'well, a little bit of everything.'" Tech marketers should develop breadth across marketing disciplines to succeed in environments where flexibility trumps specialization. Understanding how each marketing discipline solves specific business problems is more valuable than deep expertise in just one area.