Be helpful. I have built a significant network of useful people, and in many cases the relationship started from from me offering to do small favors—as small as helping put away chairs after a lecture—and striking up a conversation.
Addendum: while on occasion I use this technique consciously, there is some concern about seeming transparent (still don’t let this stop you, especially with unique opportunities at stake). Best reward yourself for being a helpful guy/gal, make it part of your self image. As your status grows it will be quite natural to offer help to important people (I once got the nerve to offer help to a very rich mayor of a major US city, as I had something to offer. Nothing came of it, but still).
Be helpful. I have built a significant network of useful people, and in many cases the relationship started from from me offering to do small favors—as small as helping put away chairs after a lecture—and striking up a conversation.
Addendum: while on occasion I use this technique consciously, there is some concern about seeming transparent (still don’t let this stop you, especially with unique opportunities at stake). Best reward yourself for being a helpful guy/gal, make it part of your self image. As your status grows it will be quite natural to offer help to important people (I once got the nerve to offer help to a very rich mayor of a major US city, as I had something to offer. Nothing came of it, but still).