Well, that s what it seems to boil down to. All human relationships are based on exchanges. But the distinguishing feature is how we go about the process, by being brash and repelling or by being tactful and engaging. Like everything else from love to war, networking is an art. Yes, very, but the key is to take the initial leap of faith.
Human beings are afraid of rejection.
We seek acceptance from our earliest recollection, from our parents, teachers, friends, bosses, colleagues, society at large. We thrive on being accepted, so if we find ourselves in a situation that could result in rejection, we recoil. Once this fear is overcome however, life will get a lot easier. Our best friends were once total strangers, and they still would be if someone did not make a move. This is different from uninterested.