In my own experience, having popular open source projects, giving talks, and writing articles contributed to the overall picture of my value as an employee and helped me advance my salary. This obviously can vary depending on where you work.

Doing those things also were great learning experiences, and made me better at my job.

It certainly helped me feel confident that I was worth a raise, and comfortable in that if I did not get paid competitively, there would be other opportunities.

Also you mention bringing in more business. Depending on your company, doing those things can bring in more business.