Building and maintaining strong workplace relationships is essential. Sometimes, we need help from others—whether it’s resources, support, or opportunities. So, how can you encourage people to lend a hand? Here are three highly effective strategies I’ve personally experienced that can help you gain more support at work.

1. Increase Your Value and Become Someone Worth Relying On

In the workplace, having skills and value is key to encouraging others to help you. This doesn’t just mean holding a high position or having authority—it’s more about your professional expertise, execution ability, and contributions to the team. People who have achieved a certain level of success in their field naturally attract attention and support. For example, serial entrepreneurs often gain investor interest more easily because of their proven skills and track record, making others more willing to collaborate with them due to their higher likelihood of success.

Even if you’re not yet highly skilled, showing potential can also make others willing to help. In my writing career, I’ve proactively recommended business opportunities to talented and motivated friends because I saw their potential, and they were worth supporting.

2. Offer Help First and Become Someone Owed a Favor

If your own abilities aren’t yet strong, actively helping others is a powerful way to build connections and eventually receive support. Many professional relationships are built on reciprocity. By offering help to others, you are essentially accumulating “favors owed.” When the time comes that you need assistance, these people are more likely to step up without hesitation.

3. Seek Mutual Benefit: Create Win-Win Situations

Workplace relationships should not be one-sided; they thrive on mutual benefit. When seeking help, consider what you can offer in return to create a win-win outcome. For example, a friend of mine in sales offers commissions when introducing clients to others. At first, people helped out of politeness, but once they received meaningful rewards, they were eager to continue making referrals. As a result, his performance improved, and everyone gained—a true example of mutual benefit.

When asking for help, think about how you can provide value to the other person. For instance, if you ask a friend to share information or recommend a job, consider offering something in return. Providing tangible benefits or resources not only motivates them to help but also strengthens your professional relationships.

The True Meaning of Reciprocity: Give First, Ask Later

Many people think reciprocity means helping others with the expectation of getting something back. True reciprocity is about giving first, not asking. This approach builds trust and increases the likelihood of receiving support when it matters most.

For example, at work, if you need a colleague’s help, start by understanding their needs and offering support rather than immediately relying on their assistance. This “give first” approach makes others more willing to help when you need it.

Conclusion

Reciprocity is a crucial principle in the workplace. By enhancing your value, proactively helping others, and fostering mutually beneficial relationships, you not only gain support but also become more competitive professionally. This is not selfish or opportunistic—it is the wisdom of achieving success together through mutual empowerment.