Many people are under a lot of pressure. Make sure when you call you ask if it is a good time to talk. Most will say yes, but it immediately shows you respect their time. Also, depending on how well you know the person, you should target your call. Plan a specific topic you want to talk about. The higher up the ladder the person is in the company, the more targeted your conversation should be.

Maintaining contact after you have met someone is extremely valuable. Think of different, creative ways to keep in touch. Perhaps you could send them a birthday card, a thank-you note, or call and congratulate them on a special occasion. Every time you make contact, learn something new about them and add it to your record.