Transactions are not made in the boardroom; they are only formalized there. People are not hired in the interview rooms; they are hired somewhere else. Decisions are not made by people in suits, they are only formalized by them.
People are not fired in disciplinary hearings, they are fired on the golf course, and the decision is formalized in a disciplinary hearing. Contracts are awarded over coffee and berbeques.
You see, these are things that we are not necessarily taught in school, yet these things will affect you in your business. Deliberately, let us have this conversation on building our social capital.
There is something in life called “Social Capital. Social Capital is about the people you know; the people who know you, and how they know you. Quite unfortunately, people think or behave like Social Capital is only needed on weddings, burials, and other celebrations. That is why you see someone who has not contacted you in many years suddenly sending you a message saying “hello so and so, long time”. Then, they indicate that on a specific day, they will have their pre-wedding function, and they need your support. Social Capital is not built overnight; it is an investment that takes time and is reciprocal. It just needs being sensitive to people’s emotions and concerns, not sneaking into their lives only when help is needed.
Social Capital is very important, and when it is built and used correctly, it makes a big difference in one’s life. It can save you money, make you money, get you a better job, make things easier, save you from prison, or save your life. It can also save you time and effort and make life more enjoyable and productive. Creating a connection with people is important for building social capital. And even if they don’t respond, at least keep in touch and don’t just reach out when you are in need.
Two things;
(1) Social capital is good, and a lot of friends bearing you goodwill is better than a few families who are obliged to you because of blood. However, social capital is not free. There is something you will pay or forego to belong. Do not go overboard to belong. Keep a few friends and be a reliable family member.
(2) The concept of social capital is like insurance. You scratch my back, and I’ll scratch yours. You have to be a people person to enjoy the social capital. Being a people person means you rush and stand shoulder to shoulder with your friends at their points of need. That will cost you. You can’t hide and only show up when you need assistance.