New account, but I'm somewhat experienced in RP principals, at least as far as game goes. Looking for advice from experienced men.

Here's the situation- young man, getting into his career. For work, had to relocate to a small town. Bible belt, but plenty of work and young people. Turns out I have some old connections here, a friend from back in high school. I hosted a party, using his extended friend group, to get me involved w/ locals.

I made a good impression. Lots of people, lots of new names and faces. Lots of people saying I'm a great host, with interesting ideas. (where I live now doesn't have entertainment businesses so I had to MAKE stuff to do) and lots of people saying they'd like to come again.

I've got the attention and interest of 25+ young people getting into various careers. Aside from the obvious "stay friends and use them as connections" what else can I do to leverage this into making my own 'empire'? I don't think I'm going to become a drug-lord kingpin or whatever, but is there anything more than just "they might be useful one day"?