Whether it is directly or indirectly, how we interact with our peers affects us greatly, at any level of our career. A strong web of (important) relationships is important, and that being said, having a service to provide to the group (web) you are part of is key.
Making yourself available is one of the most fundamental starting points in building and maintaining rapport. After reaching for your business card, take a pen out and write down your personal cell phone number on the back. It makes the other person feel important and demonstrates to them that you care about your relationship.