Isn’t it all about it? Even if it’s about fun & leisure, in order to get anywhere networking is the key. In times passed, it may have been known as mingling, having good relationships, trying out good contact information, but it’s now called networking.
It’s usual (& frankly natural( that you would trust to do business with someone you already know. Someone whose flaws and virtues you know to its fullest extent. No surprises there. You know where that person will fail and where will that person succeed.
Even if it is a recommended person, someone whom you’ve never met before, but someone from your “circle of trust” has linked you both, you are more likely to trust than a complete stranger. The Chinese call it Guang Xi’; Mexicans call it “palancas”. You want to get somewhere fast? Network!
Of course, it’s not just about having a good time and telling your new acquaintance all about your business, You have to work hard despite the great advantage that has just been provided to you. The difference? The spotlight is on you. Make it count.