To keep those connections strong, I think it's important to just be genuine and show interest in the person. Like, maybe invite them out for dinner or find out what they like to do outside of work. If they’re into tennis, even if you’re not, you could ask to play—sometimes it’s about showing you care enough to get involved in their world. Business is really about people, not just deals. When you build good relationships, the deals usually come naturally.

New professional relationship will thrive if there is a follow up with a business deal of mutual interest. Your professionalism and genuinity throughout the deal make the relationship last forever. Merely sending the greetings occasionally or getting in touch won’t help the relationship last!

Strike while the iron's warm: Send a thoughtful follow-up within 24–48 hours. First impressions fade fast! Be their go-to: Share a resource, insight, or intro they’d actually find useful—give, don’t just take. Make time, not excuses: Schedule a quick coffee chat or virtual meet to deepen the connection. Stay in their orbit: Engage on LinkedIn or drop a quick message occasionally to stay relevant.

I have observed that while we are networking, the mindset is to get something out of this new connection. Where as my approach is to genuinely help the other person by giving something which he is looking for. This involves a good level of listening to understand how you can add value in his life. And if this is done 100% from the heart, then this relationship will nurture automatically.

I have conducted over 250 small and big startup events and met 1000s of people in person. Here is what always worked - Be curious of what other person does and why they do it - Asking why will spark conversations like no other - If you can help them in some way, do that, don’t expect anything in return - Networking is building net-worth for long term. Don’t be salesy unless you see a 200% fit to solve their problem with your product / service - Don’t promise anyone anything, but if you do, deliver it. Reputation is key. Lastly network only if you are curious to learn about people and help them. Or else be straightforward why you are there so people who are interested only will talk to you and you won’t bother others.