The Networking Bank: Deposit Before You Withdraw

Piggy Bank

In the business world, relationships are currency. Much like managing your finances, building a strong network requires consistent deposits before you can ever hope to make withdrawals. At Artemis Consultants, we often use the analogy of the “Favors & Connections Credit Union” to explain the importance of giving value before asking for favors or opportunities.

Networking as an Investment

Think of your network as a bank account. You can’t make a withdrawal from an account that’s empty. You need to make regular deposits—adding value to others—so that when the time comes to ask for help, you’ve already built a solid foundation of trust and goodwill.

C-level decision-makers understand the importance of strategy, and networking is no different. Being prepared for future needs requires planning and consistent effort. Waiting until you need something to begin building your network is like waiting until you’re broke to start saving money. By then, it’s often too late.

Deposits in the Networking Bank

Here’s what deposits look like in the world of networking:

  • Offer Value First: Just as you wouldn’t withdraw from your bank without making deposits, you shouldn’t ask for favors without offering value first. Share relevant articles, introduce valuable connections, or provide insights that can help others in their roles.
  • Be Proactive: Networking when it’s convenient isn’t always enough. Often, the most valuable connections are made when you go out of your way to attend that event or send that note, even when you’re busy. Influential people in your industry notice who shows up consistently, not just when they need something.
  • Consistency Over Time: Building meaningful relationships requires consistent effort. Regular check-ins, thoughtful gestures, and providing ongoing support will keep your network healthy and primed for when you need it most.

Withdrawals Without Deposits: A Risky Move

Imagine trying to take money out of your bank account without making any prior deposits. It wouldn’t work. The same applies to your professional relationships. If you only reach out when you need something, you risk coming across as transactional or opportunistic. This is a fast track to eroding trust rather than building it.

As one Forbes article aptly put it, “Relationships in business are about reciprocity and trust” (Forbes). Building goodwill by paying things forward helps you become a trusted resource, someone others are willing to help when the time comes.

The Long-Term Payoff

When you regularly invest in your network, the payoff comes when you least expect it—new job opportunities, partnerships, or introductions to key influencers. The key is to start now. Begin making deposits, so when you need to make that critical withdrawal, your relationships are ready to support you.

For more on proactive networking and relationship-building, check out our earlier blog on Networking for Career Success.

In conclusion, make deposits in the “Favors & Connections Credit Union” today, and your future self will thank you when it’s time to make that all-important withdrawal. Don’t wait—start investing now.

If you’re networking to find talent, your hunt is over. Artemis Consultants is the premier purpose driven executive staffing company, delivering talent worth the hunt. We exist for two reasons. To help companies advance and grow by recruiting highly qualified talent. And to provide people career opportunities that positively impact their lives.

Let our network help you.

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