I strongly disagree with your points. Building a trusted group of peers is the most valuable action you can take in establishing a network. I don't dispute the

I strongly disagree with your points. Building a trusted group of peers is the most valuable action you can take in establishing a network. I don't dispute the value of mentors and high-ranking friends, I know many people who can attribute a large part of their success to the right person in the right position. However, a group of peers provides the following benefits: * support and camaraderie, as you are likely facing the same challenges at the same times * a more natural connection and more conducive environment for meeting and regularly interacting * a rising tide that raises the whole group, as you help each other gain more success Finally, I would say that your idea comes dangerously close to the idea of "kissing up and kicking down," which I personally find to be an unfortunate and disingenuous style of network management that discourages me from working with that person.