I found this article from Dave Edery last week, and I’ve been meaning to pass it on and comment.  Dave makes some really great points, and you should read the whole post.  For me, it boils down to a few simple things – talk/listen to people, treat them with respect, and be willing to help out if you can.  That seems like the most banal and obvious suggestion, but I think it can really be that easy.  If you can help someone out even with a bit of advice, you’ll be amazed at what people will often do in return.  It’s been said ad nauseam, but if you work in games long enough, you will start to see familiar faces wherever you go.  As Dave mentions, the entry-level QA tester you meet today could be the Senior Producer of a AAA blockbuster in 5 years.  I worked with guys as assistant producers, animators, receptionists, etc. who have gone on to be executive producers, creative directors and lead recruiters.  You get the idea.

I also agree with Dave that his final point might be the most important – don’t expect other people to be good at staying in touch.  This is absolutely true, even with people who you might have worked closely with for years.  It’s easy for people to get distracted at new jobs in new cities.  Why not take the initiative and drop people a line every once in a while?  If I see someone that I worked with update their Linked profile with a new promotion or job, I’ll try and write a quick note to congratulate them or see how it’s going.  Gestures like that are easy to do, and it just helps to reinforce the bonds of your network in a genuine way.