I don’t think the relationship is the same with all programs. Some are readily available and take care of you, some are hard to reach or just don’t reply.
It does help to meet them in person and that’s why the conferences are such a success and always will be.
But the different programs all have different policies and ways of doing business, and some I wouldn’t touch with a ten foot pole, and some I’d happily have over for dinner at my place.