TRAFFIC 2012: It’s all about who you are, not who you know

As I’m writing this Friday post, it’s pouring down here in Orlando, Florida. As a Floridian for the past 15 years, I learned how to cope with six months of rain, as much as the British have to live with it year-round.

This weekend, TRAFFIC 2012 in Ft. Lauderdale opens its gates to a large number of patrons: domain investors, developers, VIP executives and companies of the domain industry.

It will be my 3rd TRAFFIC show and I feel the same excitement as that of a first grader, who left kindergarten last summer. 🙂

The remarkable thing with TRAFFIC, is that all of us who use monikers, avatars and keyboards for the most part to communicate, finally get to meet in person.

And that’s where it all comes to play.

Everyone’s opinions online have to be supported by their personal convictions, ethics and social skills. Talk is cheap, and WordPress themes are cheaper, but what matters is who you are, not who you know.

It’s alright to establish connections and engage in remote business relationships, but I’m always looking for that genuine, honest handshake that seals deals. It’s how I was raised and it’s how I operate.

So if you’re heading to TRAFFIC this weekend – I know quite a few people are there already – I’m looking forward to meeting you. Forging new, meaningful business relationships, brainstorming on ideas and new trends, or simply enjoying the fine, often-sunny, but currently rainy Florida weather and some drinks.

Just remember, I don’t wear my URL across my face.