Why Some Entrepreneurs Seem to Know Everyone (and How You Can Too)

Let me ask you something—have you ever met someone in the business world who just seems to know everyone? You mention a name, and they’ve already had coffee with them. You mention a challenge, and they say, “I know someone who can help.”

That’s not luck. That’s strategic networking.
And today, I’m pulling back the curtain on how India’s most connected entrepreneurs do it—step by step.

Because if you're a startup founder, CEO, investor, or decision-maker, the real currency in business isn’t just capital—it’s connections.

Let’s dive in.

The Real Power of Strategic Networking

In my experience, networking is not about collecting contacts—it’s about building authentic relationships.

According to a LinkedIn study, 85% of jobs are filled through networking.
Harvard Business Review reports that executives who network effectively are 42% more likely to get promoted.

So, how do the big players do it differently?

1. They Build Value Before They Ask for Anything

Here’s the secret: Top entrepreneurs don’t “network”—they give.

Whether it’s sharing an insightful article, making a valuable introduction, or simply offering help without expecting anything in return, they build goodwill first.

Actionable Tip:

Next time you meet someone new, ask:

“What’s your biggest challenge right now—and how can I help?”

You’d be surprised how that one question can spark a lifetime connection.

2. They Master the Art of Follow-Up

Imagine this—you meet someone great at an event, exchange cards, and then… crickets.

India’s most connected founders don’t let relationships fade.
They follow up within 24–48 hours with a short, genuine message.

Sample Follow-Up Message:

“Hey [Name], it was great connecting at [Event]. Loved our chat about [Topic]. Let’s stay in touch—would love to hear how [Their Business] progresses!”

Actionable Tip:

Use a simple CRM or even a Google Sheet to track your follow-ups. Set reminders. Be consistent.

3. They Choose Their Circles Strategically

Not all events are created equal.

Instead of showing up everywhere, successful entrepreneurs choose high-impact communities—accelerators, angel groups, masterminds, or industry-specific forums.

Example:

Naveen Tewari, founder of InMobi, surrounded himself with investors and peers from global platforms like Y Combinator and the World Economic Forum.
That exposure changed his trajectory.

Actionable Tip:

Be selective. Find 2–3 groups where your ideal partners, investors, or mentors gather—and go deep instead of wide.

4. They Leverage Social Media Like Pros

You don’t need to be famous. You just need to be visible and valuable.

Whether it's LinkedIn, Twitter, or niche WhatsApp groups—India’s most connected entrepreneurs use digital platforms to stay relevant and build authority.

Pro Networking Tip:

• Share micro-stories from your journey.
  

• Celebrate others' wins.
  

• Comment thoughtfully instead of just “liking” posts.

Over time, you become someone people want to connect with.

5. They Invest in Relationship Maintenance

It’s not enough to just “meet and greet”.
Strong business relationships require maintenance—just like friendships.

Top networkers block out time weekly to:

• Check in with 2-3 contacts
  

• Congratulate someone on a milestone
  

• Share an opportunity or lead

Reflect:

Who are your top 10 most important relationships in business right now?
When was the last time you reached out to them?

6. They Don’t Shy Away from Asking (The Right Way)

Here’s a mindset shift:
Asking for help doesn’t make you weak—it shows you trust someone.

The best entrepreneurs in India ask for intros, advice, or support confidently—without being transactional.

How to Ask:

“I’ve been following your work for a while and truly admire what you’ve built. I’m working on something aligned and would love your perspective—would you be open to a 15-minute chat?”

It’s respectful, warm, and gives the other person an easy way to say yes.

7. They Create Their Own Communities

Some of the most powerful entrepreneurs I know didn’t find great networks—they created them.

From small monthly dinners to exclusive WhatsApp groups to startup summits, they built communities where like-minded minds thrive.

Example:

Kunal Shah, founder of CRED, is known for hosting closed-door founder dinners where real conversations happen—and lifelong networks are formed.

Actionable Tip:

Start small. Invite 4–5 peers from your city for a no-agenda coffee meet-up. Watch the magic unfold.

Bonus: They Listen More Than They Talk

Let me tell you this from personal experience:
The best networkers are the best listeners.

They’re not waiting for their turn to speak—they’re truly present.

That’s how trust is built. And in business, trust opens doors no title can.

Real Talk: Networking Is a Long Game

You're not alone if you've ever felt awkward at a networking event or unsure of how to follow up after a cold outreach.

But the entrepreneurs who thrive—especially in India’s dynamic, fast-growing ecosystem—understand that relationships compound over time.

Just like investing in your startup, investing in people pays exponential returns.

Let’s Recap: 7 Networking Strategies to Implement Today

1. Give Before You Ask – Be a value creator.
   

2. Master the Follow-Up – Be the one who remembers.
   

3. Choose Circles Strategically – Focus on high-impact communities.
   

4. Leverage Social Media Smartly – Build digital credibility.
   

5. Maintain Your Network – Check-in and nurture.
   

6. Ask the Right Way – Don’t fear asking for support.
   

7. Create Your Own Circles – Be a hub, not a spoke.

So, What’s Your Next Move?

Ask yourself this:

“Who are the 3 people I want to build deeper connections with this month?”

Start there.
Because networking isn’t a task—it’s a mindset.
And once you master it, you’ll unlock opportunities you never thought possible.