There is a common confusion between professional relationships built over years of work and attendance at specialized events, and the concept of wasta (favoritism or nepotism) as a negative social practice. The former is based on trust and prior knowledge of people’s competence, along with clear professional expectations. The latter is an overstep of standards, replacing merit with favoritism, and is a form of professional corruption.
Let’s be realistic: professional life relies on relationships because they reduce uncertainty, save time, and improve coordination and communication. Relying on someone you have previously worked with is not wasta as long as opportunities are available to everyone under declared criteria. Proper professional relationships open the door to fair competition, not a shortcut at the expense of others.
For young job seekers, building a strategic network is an indispensable skill. It begins with clearly and convincingly defining your professional identity: a concise clear resume, a portfolio or project samples, and measurable achievements. During downtime, invest in acquiring new skills through accredited courses, short projects, or volunteering that demonstrates your ability to deliver.
Being present in the professional community is essential: attend events, specialized associations, hackathons, and more. Opportunities come to those whose work is visible, and those active on professional platforms like LinkedIn should know that applying for jobs and waiting is not enough—you must continuously engage, request informational interviews or short meetings, send messages clarifying the value you can add, follow each meeting with a brief thank-you note, and share useful content or practical suggestions that reinforce your presence and turn initial contact into a meaningful relationship.
Expand your circles beyond close acquaintances, as distant connections often open unexpected doors. Always maintain ethics: ask for a fair chance, not an exception; reject any violations of policies or regulations regardless of motive. Know that entrepreneurs also need professional networks to build future teams and secure partners, expertise, and suppliers.
In conclusion, professional relationships are social capital gained through practice and flourish when merit, integrity, and mutual benefit come together. With this formula, relationships become an accelerator for your career, not a substitute for your competence.
