What makes a network powerful?
It’s not just who you know, it’s how you show up. How consistently you connect, how generously you lead, and how authentically you build trust.
In his recent interview with Authority Magazine, HiHello Founder Manu Kumar offered a thoughtful and candid perspective on the power of professional networks and the deeper role that presence plays in sustaining them.
Here’s what stood out, and how it’s shaping the platform we’re building at HiHello.
From Business Cards to Business Presence
Manu has always seen technology as a tool for human connection. From founding CardMunch—later acquired by LinkedIn—to launching K9 Ventures and now leading HiHello, he’s spent his career solving the same challenge:
HiHello was born not just to digitize business cards, but to rethink professional identity entirely. In Manu’s words:
Today, HiHello powers dynamic digital business cards, automated email signatures, customizable lead capture forms, and more, all designed to help people and companies show up professionally, consistently, and memorably.
The Five Ways to Build a Meaningful Network
In the interview, Manu shared his five core strategies for building lasting relationships in a digital-first world. These aren’t just tactical tips; they reflect the philosophy behind HiHello’s platform.
1. Be Discoverable
Your contact information should never be a mystery. A digital business card ensures people always have your most current details, whether you just met at a conference or you’re replying to an email months later. HiHello offers the flexibility to create multiple cards for multiple facets of your life, so you’re always poised to leave a lasting impression.
Create your digital business card →
2. Engage Regularly
Trust doesn’t grow on autopilot. Check in, follow up, remember birthdays, and add personal notes. HiHello’s contact manager helps you stay intentional with every relationship.
Explore contact management tools →
3. Stay Organized
You don’t just need more contacts, you need smarter ones. Manu compares it to an ecosystem:
With HiHello, you can tag, search, and filter your connections—all from the palm of your hand.
4. Offer Value First
Whether it’s an introduction, an insight, or a helpful resource, generosity is the best lead-in. Give before you ask. That’s how trust compounds over time.
5. Be Memorable
Your first impression isn’t just what you say—it’s your digital card, your email signature, your visual brand.
Make that experience remarkable.
Set up your professional email signature →
Presence Over Transactions
One of the biggest myths about networking? That it’s transactional.
And the most powerful moments often come from unexpected places: a sabbatical visitor becomes your investor. A student's job turns into a breakthrough opportunity. These aren’t one-off exchanges; they’re built through years of consistency, credibility, and compassion.
HiHello helps teams and individuals scale meaningful moments, not just contacts.
The Professional Network as Your Brand
Manu doesn’t see your network as a list. He sees it as a reflection.
This is especially true for industries built on trust. Real estate, legal, finance, healthcare. For these professionals, your digital presence can be your reputation. That’s why HiHello helps you craft and control every touchpoint, from how you’re introduced to how you’re remembered.
A Platform for Everyone
From frontline workers to Fortune 500 executives, HiHello is designed to help anyone present themselves professionally.
That belief runs through everything we do. Because when everyone can present themselves professionally, everyone has access to more opportunities.
Read the Full Interview
Want to go deeper into Manu’s backstory, investment philosophy, and vision for HiHello?
👉 Read the full Authority Magazine interview →
