Power of Relationships

After spending 20-odd years in the corporate world – different companies, different bosses, all kinds of colleagues and team members, I thought I had seen pretty much everything. Learned the systems, dealt with office politics, celebrated the wins, handled the lows… and along the way, made some really good friends.

Then, one day, I left the safety of a monthly salary and a fixed routine to start out on my own as a consultant. No big plan. No fancy strategy. Just a leap of faith.

The first few weeks were… honestly, a mix of excitement and “oh no, what have I done? ”Where do I start? Who do I talk to? How do I explain what I can do without feeling awkward? And the big one — will anyone even give me work?

That’s when I realized what those 20 years had actually given me – relationships.

In those first uncertain days, I picked up my phone and called or messaged old colleagues. People I hadn’t spoken to in ages. People I had once sat next to in meetings, worked with on ridiculous deadlines, or had coffee with in the pantry while complaining about work. I didn’t need to “sell” to them. I just told them I was freelancing now, and slowly, the work started coming in. Every single client I have had so far has come through someone I already knew, or through their recommendation.

It’s a great feeling when someone says, “I couldn’t think of anyone better for this.” It’s not about a polished resume; it’s about the trust that’s built over years.

If there’s one thing I have learnt is that you don’t just collect contacts, you keep them. Even if you are busy, even if years pass, just send a “Hey, how are you?” once in a while. Out of sight doesn’t have to mean out of mind.

Freelancing has made me realize that work will come and go, but the people you have built relationships with… they stay.

So don’t wait till you need something to reach out. Check in because you genuinely care. Because when you finally take that leap, those are the people who will catch you.