A lesser member of the in-group or clique can speak more influentially as others know they have the ear of the most powerful. An interesting variant on this is where powerful psychological dependencies enable dependent parties to draw power from key players. History is sprinkled with such figures - Lady MacBeth, the Czarina of Russia and Rasputin and may influence decisions substanitally. The network formal or informal. Its influence is in who you know rather than what you know .
Members agree on mutual support, they share ideas, trade favours and find strength in association.
They do not need to agree explicitly - knowledge of mutual interests and having confience that their support will be available when needed can be sufficient. Coalitions open doors, give access to advice or pooling of resources. Being a member of the 1922 Committee, a masonic lodge or the Round Table or the Guildford group of salary administraators may offer monthly lunches and receptions. Friends are made and renewed. Visiting speakers may be invited to share their views.