1/ This has been the busiest end of summer, start of fall I've had in 8 years of venture investing. The market is abuzz. A few takeaways:

2/ When founders say they aren't raising, it just means they aren't actively pitching partnerships. Keep trying to build the relationship regardless. These days, founders decide overnight to fundraise and it's a mad dash to a term sheet.

3/ Seed/insider firms can be friend or foe. Know the difference!

4/ The more time you spend with founders, the better. No ifs and buts about it. "Giving space" in this market doesn't help anybody.

5/ Price always matters. It triangulates, in the founder's mind, how much conviction you have about the business.

6/ Founder references are the single most important thing you do - and the references won't end at the ones you offer. Founders today are hyperconnected - expect backchannels, expect friends of friends. Reminder to always be respectful, kind, thoughtful.

7/ Moving fast matters, but don't forget to do your diligence just because you want to win. That balance is the difference between a good firm and a great firm.

8/ Sector specific experience matters, but most founders are looking for software-scaling experience. Have you helped a team scale from $1M to $5M, $5M to $15M, and onwards?

9/ Access to your partners is powerful, but a founder is still choosing you as the board member. Don't dilute the messaging.

10/ Finally, winning deals is hard work but also a lot of luck and right place, right time. Keep your cup full and keep on chasing!