Yes, these things are most definitely helpful! You can start by preparing a short elevator pitch about your product if you are trying to interest/recruit other

Yes, these things are most definitely helpful! You can start by preparing a short elevator pitch about your product if you are trying to interest/recruit other hackers. Also, don't be afraid to reach out for help when you need it or be outgoing in general--most people are very friendly and more than willing to go out of their way to help/teach if the requests are sincere and it's a great way to meet new friends or mentors. For meetups check out this month's meetup thread if you haven't already seen it: http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=4857727 http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=4857727 Good luck :)