Ladders and Bridges - by Samuel Ibok

I had made up my mind to try telling delicious stories about my local delicacies. I had even started researching, and I drafted out a list of meals and what I would relate them to. My attention was suddenly drawn when I overheard a colleague make a statement I consider profound. He said one of his biggest regrets is burning bridges in school and not networking in school. That statement hit me in multiple ways.Looking at the years following my secondary and tertiary education, I am proof that nurturing relationships can be highly beneficial later in life. In fact, all the jobs that I have done are directly linked to people who I met about 10 years ago. I understand that people have different temperaments, and this has a way of influencing your relationships with people. Someone who is introverted is less likely to have a large circle of friends. Your environment shouldn't limit the quality of your network. I'm not saying that you should have a thousand friends; I'm only saying that you can build great relationships even if you aren't a "people's person." To put it differently, be a great person. We spend most of our time in college with our colleagues and roommates. Interestingly, your roommates and colleagues can have a drastic impact on your life in the future. One of the people I met in the hostel linked me to my first job. He called me, prepared me for the interview, and did a follow-up for me. I am eternally grateful to him. A few months later, I linked my guy from school to the same job, and he got it. His salary was way higher than mine, but that never mattered to me. I didn't do it because I am an incredibly great guy; it's because of the quality of our friendship. When the opening came, he was top of mind. I've received recommendations from people I never knew I had impacted. Someone once told me that there were better options, but I stood out because of who I am. I nearly cried! People don't forget. Someone is watching you. Do not live your life as though nothing or no one matters. Life is beyond you. People will mention you in rooms you didn't know existed. The goal is not to build a network for selfish purposes. Believe me, people can tell if you're on a mission to exploit them. Truly, your network determines your net worth. If you're not great at building and sustaining quality relationships, there's a way out. First, work on your communication skills. Also, create a great impression when you meet people. Be memorable and visible. Do your best to add value to people. People don't want more friends; they want value. They want quality over quantity. Be very mindful of how you handle your issues with people. Find a way to settle amicably. This may be difficult, but being future-minded in your dealings with people can be a plus. Finally, some of the people you meet today will be the ladder to your next phase in life.

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