On networking through writing:

Writing is the most scalable professional networking activity. Stay home, don’t go to events/conferences, and just put ideas down.

Andrew Chen

I took to this idea, immediately. Initially, I was debating to start off a newsletter and then scale it up. However, I chose to stick to a blog- if not for anything else, I’d have a permanent record of what I am writing and reading. My blogposts add meaning to my professional life; I am sure you’d find the ideas interesting too.

Conferences are a waste of time unless you are an invited speaker where it is more fun to push out your worldview. However, I disagree with the “standard format” of presentation- heavy text and graphics where the speakers assume that the audience is keyed in and hanging by their words as if they are dripping honey. It is a false pretence and the audience usually stares blankly. I’d be genuinely surprised if they are able to retain what has been spoken.

Here’s another:

Writing is the best kind of networking.

By making it easy for people to find you online, you’ll create a vehicle for serendipity. Call on your vehicle when you want to manufacture serendipity, and you need some activation energy.

David Perell — How to maximize serendipity

I agree completely.