Free cheat sheet · from
How to build relationships at work
Your next role often comes from someone who already knows your work. Start before you need it.
4 ways to build them
1. Meet one new person a month
Have a coffee or a call with someone outside your team.
“I liked how you handled ___. Could I take 15 minutes to learn how you approached it?”
Small, specific asks get a yes.
2. Help first
Share what you learn, make an introduction, answer a question.
“Saw this on ___ and thought of you. Hope it helps.”
People remember who helped them before they asked.
3. Stay in touch, with no ask
Message one former colleague or manager every month.
“I was thinking about our work on ___. How are you? What are you building now?”
Openings and references come from people who still know you.
4. Give credit out loud
Name the person who helped, in the meeting or on the team channel.
“This worked because ___ did ___. Thank you.”
Credit builds trust, and people notice who gives it.
4 things that quietly cost you
Only reaching out to job hunt. People notice when the messages start with a need.
Vague asks. “Can I pick your brain?” is hard to say yes to. Be specific.
No follow-up. Tell people what happened after you used their advice.
Only taking. Give help first, and give it often.
Every Friday, ask yourself
“Who did I help or meet this week?”
About DefineCareer
Free career guidance by Sagar Gulati, Managing Partner at a Global MNC
Practical videos, cheat sheets and workshops on picking the right job, cracking interviews and growing after you join. Built from 10 years in the US and 1,000+ interviews, and taught at 180+ colleges.
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