I've had the privilege of meeting some of the finest and most successful domain investors in our industry. I attribute that to being a member of NamePros since 2009, participating in multiple domain related discussions here over the years, Scheduling one on one meet-ups with other domain investors and developers when we travel across the country, attending some of the domain related conferences over the years (E.g.
T.R.A.F.F.I.C. West,
NamesCon,
DnHouston, Etc.), and breaking out of my introverted shell from time to time to join the rest of the extroverted world.
Believe it or not, the majority of what some might call the "Big hitters", "Whales", or "
Pros" are very nice, receptive, and friendly. Not one person, in my years in this industry, refused to shake my hand when I put it out there. (Though, I've had lots of confused or concerned looks with my septum ring, long hair, jeans, leather vest, and sometimes a small straw or leather cowboy style hat).
Obviously, I've had some unfortunate encounters/situations as well. But life is full of those. If you had a bad encounter with another domain investor, don't let it eat you up inside. Just push it away and focus on the positives, your goals, the great people you will meet, and your dreams.
I think more people should meet up and shake each other's hands. It creates a bigger bond knowing exactly who you're dealing with behind the screen.
The cold but hard truth is: Real people like doing business with real people. If you want to get serious about domain investing, you are going to have to break out of your comfort zone and mingle a little with other like-minded investors.
Maybe start a new
Meet-Up thread for your area.
Eric Lyon