Hey there.... may I say hello 👋 🤗 and ask hope you're good 👍.
There are certain things I consider quite important to point out, I mean there are things we shouldn't do.
so to begin with, I'll like to say that it's not proper going into one place twice for the same reason, unless...
let me explain further. If you're going to the Ministry of Education to submit a letter for instance, or to the Academics Unit to obtain a transcript or certificate, one of the things you must intentionally do is not to simply get what you came for and leave. Get a contact from there. In fact, get two or three contacts.
If you waybill something through the airport, the next time you shouldn't have to start from scratch. You should already have someone you can call to guide the process. Be intentional about building and maintaining genuine relationships wherever life takes you.
For example, you went to process your passport and a polite young man or lady attended to you professionally and made the process easier. Don't just tip them and disappear. Exchange contacts. Check up on them once in a while.
If you can, take them out for lunch or send a recharge card occasionally, not because you want something in return, but because relationships grow through consistent kindness and thoughtfulness.
That's how networks are built. Save their WhatsApp number. One day they may post their child's dedication, wedding invitation or another important family event. Attend if you can. You might introduce one or two of your own friends there, and before long, valuable relationships begin to grow naturally. That is how communities are formed.
Think about it. How do you walk into a University Registrar's office and leave without knowing the PA or Executive Assistant? The next time you need information, you shouldn't necessarily have to make another trip. Sometimes, all it takes is a simple phone call.
Strategic relationships are not limited to former classmates, colleagues or church members. Every meaningful place you enter presents an opportunity to meet people. If you cannot reach those at the very top, get to know the people who work closely with them. Treat everyone with respect because every role matters.
There's something called an Emotional Bank Account. Just like every financial account, you have to make deposits before you can expect withdrawals. Those deposits are acts of genuine service and kindness. Attend a friend's wedding, traditional marriage or child's dedication and volunteer to help. Serve food, arrange chairs, welcome guests, drive to pick up needed items or simply fill a gap where help is needed.
If there's no MC and you have the ability to anchor the event, step in and serve. If a close friend's parent passes away, don't only attend the funeral, be available to support the family and assist guests. People remember those who stood with them when it mattered.
The same principle applies to mentors, lecturers and leaders. If you know that one day you'll need a recommendation or reference letter, don't wait until you need the favour before reaching out. Stay in touch. Celebrate their milestones and appreciate them for the impact they have had on your life.
Save people's birthdays on Google Calendar. Be among the first to call or send them a birthday message. If you can afford it, send a recharge card once in a while. Don't do these things because you expect something in return. Do them so people know they are genuinely in your thoughts.
How well do you know your close friend's family? How do you call someone your close friend, yet you don't know that their eldest sister is a banker while you're struggling with a pending transaction? Why wait an entire month for a transcript when the University Registrar happens to be the Women's Fellowship Chairperson in your church? The irony is that she may not even know you are a member because you've never made any effort to build a relationship within that community.
These deposits you make today will become withdrawals tomorrow. That is why you must be intentional. You cannot belong to a large community and remain completely isolated. You'll watch others gain access to opportunities, solve problems quickly and receive recommendations simply because they have invested in relationships over time.
Saying, "I'm the shy type," is no longer enough. It's okay to be naturally reserved, but don't allow shyness to stop you from introducing yourself to people whose work has inspired you. Tell them how their books, speeches or videos have positively influenced your life. A simple introduction can become the beginning of a meaningful relationship.
Find people who have what you need, and be someone who also brings value to others. Relationships last when they are mutually beneficial. Ask yourself regularly, "How can I help?" Sometimes your time, skills, ideas or presence are more valuable than money. Learn to serve without always expecting immediate rewards.
If you're privileged to walk alongside someone successful, don't be in a hurry to ask for money or favours. Introduce yourself properly. Learn from them. Exchange contacts if appropriate. Build trust first. Strong relationships are built on character, consistency and value, not constant requests.
One meaningful relationship often leads to another, and before long, a reliable network begins to take shape. At the end of the day, relationships are not about using people; they are about knowing people, serving people, adding value and allowing value to flow both ways.
Be intentional. Be kind. Be available. Invest consistently in people. Opportunities may open doors, but it is trusted relationships that often keep those doors open.
You're reading from your handsome friend John Petra.
Peace 🕊️ and love 💕
