How to Network Like a Pro: Lessons from India’s Top Business Influencers

Let me start with a question…

When was the last time a conversation changed the course of your business?

If your answer isn’t “last week” or “yesterday”, you're probably underestimating the single most underrated superpower in business today — strategic networking.

In my experience interviewing India’s top entrepreneurs, investors, and C-suite executives for The CEO Magazine, one pattern is crystal clear:

Your network is not just your net worth — it's your launchpad.

And here’s the secret…
Networking isn’t about exchanging cards — it’s about exchanging value.
Let me show you how India’s top business influencers do it, and how you can too.

Why Networking is a Power Skill in Today’s Business World

The business landscape is more collaborative, competitive, and connected than ever before.

Whether you're raising funds, seeking mentorship, hiring leaders, or scaling to new markets — the right connection can fast-track everything.

“In the modern economy, your success is not just what you know, but who knows you — and trusts you.”
— Ritesh Agarwal, Founder, OYO

Still think networking is about small talk and LinkedIn likes? Think again.

1. Build Relationships Before You Need Them

This is something Nithin Kamath, founder of Zerodha, swears by.

He’s known for his calm, consistent presence in the fintech space. But what most people don’t know is that he nurtures relationships quietly, consistently — without ever asking for favors.

Pro Networking Tip:

• Reach out when you have nothing to ask.
  

• Share value — a book, a trend, a relevant article — just because it might help them.
  

• Stay visible without being pushy.

In short: Plant seeds before the harvest season arrives.

2. Go Deep, Not Wide: The “5-50-500” Rule

One of the most effective strategies I’ve learned from Indian CXOs is what I call the 5-50-500 rule:

• 5 people you can call at 2 AM.
  

• 50 people who will return your calls.
  

• 500 people who know and trust your brand.

Don’t chase vanity metrics. Build layers of trust.

“Business doesn’t move at the speed of tech. It moves at the speed of trust.”
— Ankur Warikoo, Entrepreneur & Mentor

What to do today?
Audit your circle. Who are your 5, 50, and 500?

3. Leverage Events Like a Pro (Even If You’re an Introvert)

From TiE Delhi to India Tech Week, high-impact founders like Kunal Shah (CRED) and Falguni Nayar (Nykaa) don’t just attend — they activate events.

Here’s how they do it:

Pre-Event:

• Research who’s attending.
  

• Connect on LinkedIn beforehand: “Looking forward to your talk on XYZ. Would love to say hello after.”

During the Event:

• Ask insightful questions after panels — people remember good questions, not rehearsed pitches.
  

• Introduce others: Be a connector.

Post-Event:

• Follow up within 24 hours.
  

• Don’t just say “Nice meeting you.” Say:
  “I loved your take on X. Here’s something we discussed that I found useful…”

4. Offer Value First, Always

Here’s the deal: Nobody owes you their time.
But people will make time for someone who consistently brings them insights, solutions, or introductions.

In my interviews with business influencers like Dr. Radhakrishnan Pillai and Harsh Mariwala, they emphasize “value-first networking.”

Ways to Add Value:

• Make introductions between two people who should meet.
  

• Share industry insights they may not have seen.
  

• Help solve a small problem they mentioned.

“In a world of takers, the givers win in the long run.”
— Adam Grant

5. Be Authentically You: The Personal Brand Advantage

India’s business influencers are not clones. Each has a clear, consistent personal brand — whether it’s Warikoo’s storytelling, Nikhil Kamath’s contrarian views, or Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw’s bold leadership.

When you show up as your real self, your network forms around shared values — not just shared ventures.

How to build your personal brand?

• Post regularly on LinkedIn or X (Twitter).
  

• Share lessons, failures, stories — not just achievements.
  

• Speak at niche events or podcasts to share your journey.

Need help with personal branding? Check out:
Top 10 Personal Branding Strategies for Entrepreneurs

6. Master the Art of the Follow-Up

This one’s underrated.

You met someone. You clicked. Then — radio silence.

The fortune is in the follow-up.
But it doesn’t have to be awkward.

Easy Follow-Up Templates:

• 24-Hour Note: “Great meeting you yesterday! Loved our chat on X — here’s that article I mentioned.”
  

• 2-Week Touchpoint: “I’ve been thinking about our conversation. Would love to continue exploring XYZ together.”
  

• Value-Add Note: “Just saw this news on your company — congrats! Also, thought you might enjoy this resource.”

Set a calendar reminder. Nurture the connection.

7. Join the Right Communities (Online and Offline)

Top business influencers are part of high-trust peer networks — not just social media.

Here are a few communities Indian founders swear by:

• EO (Entrepreneurs’ Organization)
  

• TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs)
  

• YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization)
  

• SaaSBoomi (for SaaS founders)
  

If you're early-stage, check out:

• LinkedIn groups for founders
  

• Twitter Spaces
  

• Slack channels for niche sectors

Pick one and go deep. Add value. Show up. Be consistent.

8. Never Underestimate the Power of Listening

Let me end with this…

The best networkers aren’t great talkers. They’re great listeners.

They ask:

• “What are you working on these days?”
  

• “What’s your biggest challenge right now?”
  

• “How can I support you?”

And they listen — with intent, curiosity, and generosity.

That’s how relationships are built.

Conclusion: Start Today, Start Small, Stay Genuine

If you’ve ever felt awkward at networking events…
Or sent a cold email that got ghosted…
Or wondered, “What do I even say to this influencer?”

You’re not alone.

But networking, like business, is a skill you build — not a talent you’re born with.

And when you do it with clarity, care, and consistency, you’ll find that doors open — not just to opportunities, but to lifelong allies.

Here’s your challenge:
Reach out to 3 people this week with no agenda — just to reconnect, appreciate, or offer value.

Let’s continue the conversation:
Who’s the one person in your network who changed your trajectory?
Tag them or message them today.