The Real Power of Networking: Nurturing Relationships That Last

A network is a collection of mutually beneficial relationships.
By extension, networking is the act of nurturing those relationships.

When I was first introduced to the idea of networking, I thought it meant attending big events, exchanging business cards, and sending a polite “Hello” message or email afterward. But as I dug deeper, I wanted to understand what networking truly means.

After reading many books and speaking to people who do it well, I settled at this simple definition from Networking like a pro: Networking is nurturing mutually beneficial relationships.

# What Does “Mutually Beneficial” Mean?

First, it must be mutual. It’s not one side giving and the other side taking—it’s both giving and receiving.

Even in a mentor–mentee relationship, there’s always an exchange of value. Both sides grow in some way.

That benefit can be monetary, like paying for a coaching session or hiring someone to train your sales team. But it can also be non-monetary—sharing advice, writing a thoughtful LinkedIn recommendation, or referring someone to an opportunity.

In other words, the benefit doesn’t have to fit one dimension. It can take many forms—monetary, emotional, intellectual, or social.

# Relationships, Not Transactions

Networking isn’t about short-term exchanges.
Transactions are brief; relationships are long-term.

A true relationship isn’t always asking, “What’s in it for me?” It’s about doing what’s best for the other person too.

Sometimes that means someone refers you even when you’re not in the room. They speak positively about you, connect you to others, and trust your capabilities. You do the same for them.

I’ve noticed that high-value individuals—those who truly value time and money—understand this best. They aren’t penny-pinchers, counting every rupee or every minute. They are generous with introductions, advice, and trust.

I’ve seen this play out repeatedly: someone referring me for an opportunity without asking if I’d pay them, and I’ve done the same for others.
That’s what makes a relationship valuable—it’s based on trust and respect, not transactions.

# Nurturing with Intention

Networking is nurturing these relationships with systematic care.
It’s not random. You build a rhythm around it.

You might keep a list of people you want to stay connected with—people whose work you admire, who challenge you, or with whom you want to grow together.

Meet them in person for coffee or lunch. Talk about what each of you is working on. Explore how you can be of help to each other.

When meeting in person isn’t possible, connect over a call or a virtual meeting.

Sometimes nurturing means sending a thoughtful note or small gift—

“I went to Mahabalipuram and saw something that reminded me of you, so I picked it up.”

Other times, it’s as simple as forwarding an article that resonates with a recent conversation:

“This reminded me of what we discussed last week.”

Or introducing two people who might enjoy knowing each other:

“You both love long-distance running—thought you might get along.”

Nurturing means being intentional.
Keep notes—what people like, what matters to them, their families, their milestones. These details help you build genuine, lasting connections over time.

Of course, it goes both ways. You must gain something too—whether it’s learning, gratitude, or personal growth. Otherwise, the relationship will fade naturally.

Sometimes, we continue nurturing a relationship out of gratitude. Maybe a mentor once opened doors for us, and we keep in touch out of respect. That’s perfectly fine. Even then, the relationship benefits us by deepening our sense of loyalty and appreciation.

# In Essence

Networking is nurturing mutually beneficial relationships—consistently, sincerely, and systemically.

It’s a lifelong skill that strengthens every part of your life—career, business, and personal growth.

So ask yourself: Are you merely collecting contacts, or are you nurturing relationships that truly matter?