For anyone that thinks Silicone is bad to work with, try Acoustical Sealant combined with someone who has never touched a caulking gun. That stuff doesn't skin over, doesn't harden, and only loses its stickiness when it has been combined with enough dust to fully coat it.
When working with silicone (at in least caulking tubes) my first tip is to not cheap out on your caulking gun. Buying cheap tools at the dollar store costs you more in the long run for replacement tools, lost time, and wasted materials.
Second tip, if using your fingers rather than a tool to smooth your beads (Such as in a corner) then dampen your skin. Now if you are licking your fingers to dampen them, then remember this: Keep track of which finger you have already licked and used! Don't lick the same finger twice. (Won't kill you, but wet silicone sure doesn't taste good, and I can't see it being overly healthy anyway.)
Third tip, take your time, but work smoothly and as quickly as you can. Going a little slower and steady is better than rushing it. (Mind you, this tip works for just about anything.)