When we think about networking, we are often told that it’s primarily about gaining access to exclusive circles, top-tier schools, and elite business networks. There’s a prevailing notion that if you didn’t attend a prestigious private school or an Ivy League institution, your network might be inherently limited. However, I have realized that meaningful connections don’t come from privilege; they come from authenticity. 🤝

In my own journey, I’ve connected with people from all walks of life—some from well-known institutions, yes, but many others from completely different backgrounds. Old schoolmates from a definitely non-elite government school in India. Friends I played table tennis with years ago. Colleagues from different jobs. People I met through shared interests, casual conversations, or even chance encounters. And over time, these connections have become some of the most valuable relationships in my life—not because of their backgrounds but because of the trust, support, and mutual respect we’ve built. 🌍

The truth is, real networking isn’t about proximity to power or wealth. It’s about genuine relationships. Here’s what I’ve learned about meaningful networking:

• Give without expectation: The best connections are built on generosity. You don’t help someone expecting an immediate return. Often, the value you create for one person comes back to you from another, in unexpected ways.
• Build a reputation for being helpful: When people know they can rely on you—not because there’s something in it for you, but because you genuinely want to support them—that’s when you create real influence.
• Prioritize organic connections over forced ones: The most impactful relationships aren’t manufactured—they grow naturally. Instead of chasing high-status connections, focus on people you truly connect with.
• Stay in touch without an agenda: Whether it’s customers, investors, or peers, maintaining relationships without expecting something in return often leads to opportunities down the road.
• Find ways to contribute to the larger ecosystem: One of the most rewarding aspects of networking is creating value beyond individual relationships. For example, being an entrepreneur and having been through startup incubators myself, I now try to connect startups to the right incubators, helping both sides thrive.

Networking isn’t about where you studied or who your family knows. It’s about how you show up, how you contribute, and how you build authentic relationships over time. 🚀