Build relationships before you need them to avoid desperation
Imagine Lisa, a mid-career marketer, dreaming of launching her own boutique agency. She could wait until she’s ready to quit her job—but that’s risky. Instead, she makes a list of top boutique firms she admires. She finds community events for agency founders and volunteers to help with their brand-strategy workshops. Months before leaving her day job, Lisa’s name is well known. She’s become indispensable, sharing insights at panels and offering introductions to her friends in publishing.
When the time comes to strike out on her own, Lisa already has two anchor clients who call her first—and a roster of collaborators who welcome her fresh, generous input. What could have been a scramble for projects becomes a steady flow of work. It all began with relationships built long before she needed them.
Her success wasn’t a fluke. It’s a formula you can follow: identify your future arenas, get involved early, and offer value first. By doing so, you’ll avoid the desperation of cold calls when your future is on the line. The people you met ahead of time will be the ones cheering you on and giving you opportunities.
Next time you envision a future career pivot or consulting gig, don’t wait until you hand in your resignation. Pick one event or group where those new players gather. Volunteer to contribute—be it a workshop or writing a resource for them—then follow up with the people you meet within forty-eight hours. You’ll find your confidence soars, and when you’re finally ready, your network will already be rooting for your success.
What You'll Achieve
You’ll overcome last-minute scramble anxiety, building security through early engagement. Externally, you’ll secure clients and collaborators before you leave your current role.
Cultivate future allies today
Identify future prospects
List three industries or roles you may join or target years from now, such as finance, education, or nonprofits.
Locate professional events
Find one conference, meetup, or online group for each path and commit to attending or joining in the next quarter.
Offer your expertise freely
At these events, volunteer to speak, write, or mentor, establishing credibility before you ever need the contact.
Follow up within 48 hours
Send a thank-you note or resource link to each new person you meet at these events, building the bridge in advance.
Reflection Questions
- Which future path sparks excitement and why?
- What’s one industry event you can attend in the next six weeks?
- How will you offer value before seeking anything in return?
- Who will you follow up with immediately after your first meeting?
- How will you measure your progress toward building this new network?
Personalization Tips
- A teacher who wants to enter publishing joins a young writers’ association and offers to guest-teach a lesson.
- A project manager who dreams of startup life attends a tech hackathon and helps troubleshoot a prototype.
- A parent eyeing nonprofit service volunteers to co-organize a local fundraiser, meeting board members before seeking a role.
Never Eat Alone: And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship at a Time
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