> Having coffee with investors - This can be confusing, because sometimes you need to meet with investors. If you're gearing up to raise money or need specific advice, this is work. Most of the time, though, this isn't work
But this is:
> Writing updates for your investors and meeting with them one on one - I've written about investor updates. These relationships are important, and can be incredibly helpful as you grow. Maintain them.
Notice the "meeting with them one on one" in the last quote. Wouldn't having coffee with them qualify as meeting with them one on one and "maintaining" the relationship?
I believe the first point is referring to investors who haven't put money into your company. If you aren't currently raising money, you shouldn't waste your time talking to investors. Raising money is a long process, and can't be done part time. Some might argue that meeting for coffee can help build a relationship with an investor, which would result in making raising easier in the future. However, if your company is worth investing in, these relationships shouldn't matter when it comes time to raise.
The second point is referring to your company's current investors. A monthly update let's those who have a vested interest know where you're at currently, and what you may need help with. Investors should be doing everything they can to help a company. That's why this relationship is important.
> If you're gearing up to raise money or need specific advice
(emphasis mine)
That part makes it seem like they are talking about current investors. How many random investors (that are not currently vested in your company) meet you for coffee and give you specific advice? Maybe this is just a Valley-specific thing?
> Having coffee with investors - This can be confusing, because sometimes you need to meet with investors. If you're gearing up to raise money or need specific advice, this is work. Most of the time, though, this isn't work
But this is:
> Writing updates for your investors and meeting with them one on one - I've written about investor updates. These relationships are important, and can be incredibly helpful as you grow. Maintain them.
Notice the "meeting with them one on one" in the last quote. Wouldn't having coffee with them qualify as meeting with them one on one and "maintaining" the relationship?