After that, the next closest are the extended family and very close friends who are treated as family. Such close friends do not have to be Chinese to be considered an insider. The next level of relationship is that between people with shared experiences, such as being former classmates. The final level of relationship is that with strangers, who often are looked upon with suspicion until they are known better. Even if one falls in this category, it still is possible to do business with the Chinese, though on a shorter-term basis unless the relationship evolves to something closer.
Outsiders can reach more exclusive parts of the network through other people.
Guanxi relationships often result in favors that are expected to be returned, but by no specific date. Sometimes indebtedness from such favors lasts for generations, and the Chinese will remember for a long time a favor that was given to them when it especially was needed. When a favor is returned, it often is in greater measure. This swinging of the balance strengthens the guanxi relationship and carries it into the future. Even if you are an outsider in a guanxi network you still are an insider in your own network.