How to Call in Professional Favors

rofessional networking is an imperative component of business. Millions of people get new jobs every year through personal connections, and business deals are often a lot easier when there is a personal connection involved. However, any successful relationship requires some "give and take" to truly be successful and beneficial to both parties. Knowing when to ask for business favors and how to go about it greatly improves your chances of career success.

Focus on keeping your professional relationships healthy by engaging in professional networking on a regular basis. It's difficult to ask for favors from people you haven't talked to in months, even if you've done that person favors in the past. Professional networking is sometimes as simple as sending an email once every week or two checking in with people and finding out how they are. If someone is used to hearing from you, it doesn't become odd when you suddenly contact that person seeking help. This is especially true when you need to ask for a job referral.

This applies to personal friends that have something to offer your professionally as well, whether it be advice or a referral. It isn't odd or off-putting to ask a friend for a favor. However, it can be if that friend hasn't seen or heard from you in over a year. Cultivate those relationships to keep them healthy. Do this by doing favors for others as often as you can. This makes others more eager and likely to help you when you need it.

Be direct when you need to call in a business favor. Professional networking depends on trust. If someone thinks you're not being open and honest about your needs or intentions, that trust is damaged. Tell your friend or colleague that you have a favor to ask. Explain exactly what that favor is, and specify why and how your friend can help you. Finish by giving your friend an "out clause" so there is no guilt or awkwardness if your friend can't or won't help you. You likely want the relationship to continue past this favor, whether it is granted or not. Successful professional networking relies on long-term relationships. Make you friend feel comfortable by stating that you understand if the favor cannot be given.

Specify why you need the favor as well. Empathy is a powerful thing. Someone is much more likely to grant a favor, especially an inconvenient one, if he understands and empathizes with why you need it. Stick to facts as much as you can, and don't be too hard on yourself. If you apologize for asking for the favor, you make the favor seem like a bigger deal or inconvenience. Be appreciative of the other person's help and time, but don't denigrate yourself while asking for it.

Asking for favors is a skill. Like any skill, you get better at it the more you do it. The whole purpose of professional networking is to get what you need when you need it, so don't hesitate to call in favors when necessary. This is especially true when asking for help from someone you've done favors for in the past. Helping others is an important part of both life and business.

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