Skills or People? Understanding the Real Currency in the Workplace

Early in one’s career, the spotlight often shines on developing skills, refining expertise, and mastering the technical nuances of a chosen field. For those in tech, for example, the drive to become a master of a particular stack, coding language, or system is all-consuming. The message is clear: "Be the best, and success will follow." Yet, as one climbs higher on the career ladder, it becomes apparent that the workplace is not just about skill; it's about trust and, more importantly, relationships. A pivotal moment in this realization comes when you acknowledge the value of networking something far beyond just skill acquisition.

Years ago, I came across a WhatsApp status that read, “You’re at work to make money and not friends.” While the statement seemed straightforward at first, it quickly led me to reflect more deeply. The reality is that work is not just about making money, nor is it about making enemies. Instead, it's about building meaningful connections, or as we commonly say, a “network.” It became evident to me that while technical expertise opens the door, the relationships you cultivate and the trust you build along the way are what truly sustain and elevate your career.

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When you begin your career, the primary focus is often on skill acquisition. This phase is marked by intense learning and a desire to stand out by mastering a set of tools, techniques, or methodologies. For many in tech or highly specialized fields, this could mean becoming proficient in a particular programming language, system architecture, or analytic method. The mentality here is that success lies in being the "best" in your craft.

But there's a catch. As much as skill acquisition is necessary, it's not sufficient for long-term success. Over time, you begin to realize that while skills are important, they're often commoditized. In today's rapidly evolving world, anyone with enough determination can pick up a new skill at any age. Online courses, certifications, and training programs have made upskilling more accessible than ever before. What remains a constant differentiator, however, is trust the kind of trust that is built through meaningful, authentic relationships.

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Trust is not something that can be developed overnight, nor is it something that can be taught in a certification course. It is earned over time through collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect. This is especially true as you rise higher within an organization. At leadership levels, the people around you are likely equally skilled, but what sets individuals apart is their ability to inspire confidence in others and foster strong working relationships. This is where the value of networking becomes crucial.

I remember a conversation with a great colleague and friend, Arthur Bourekas , years ago after a management meeting. Arthur spoke passionately about the power of networking and how it had saved the company a significant amount of money, all thanks to his quality network. His words struck me. It wasn’t just his technical knowledge that contributed to that success; it was the trust and relationships he had built over the years that made the difference.

In this way, your network becomes your most valuable asset. It's what helps you navigate office politics, secure career-defining opportunities, and solve problems that no amount of technical skill alone could fix. Building relationships within your organization and industry allows you to tap into resources, knowledge, and opportunities that would otherwise remain out of reach.

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Many people mistake networking for superficial socializing, but it’s far deeper than that. Genuine networking involves creating lasting, meaningful relationships where mutual support and trust can thrive. It's about creating a circle of influence that can offer insight, guidance, and even rescue in challenging situations.

Arthur's experience showed me that networking is about creating an interconnected system of trust that extends beyond your immediate job function. It allows you to be more effective because you're not just relying on your skillset but on a web of trusted individuals who can help you fill in the gaps.

One of the most overlooked aspects of networking is how it can shape your reputation. It's not uncommon to hear that “connection speaks louder than a polished resume,” and this is because your network becomes a reflection of who you are in your industry. A well-maintained network can propel your career forward in ways that your resume never could. It's not just about what you know; it's about who knows you, and more importantly, how much they trust you.

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It's important to note that this isn't a dichotomy where you must choose between being skilled and having strong relationships. Rather, it's about finding the balance between the two. In fact, excelling in both areas is the key to long-term success. As you progress in your career, your technical abilities need to be complemented by your ability to build and maintain relationships.

That said, it's also critical to manage your relationships wisely. Networking isn’t about accumulating contacts for the sake of it; it's about fostering genuine connections with people who can contribute to your professional growth and whose growth you can support in return. Authenticity is crucial, as people can quickly sense insincerity. At the same time, it’s essential to remember that your career is about the work. Avoid engaging in unnecessary side talks or forming rivalries in the workplace, as these behaviors can harm both your reputation and your future opportunities.

Learning to engage with "data" in the context of your relationships is also an underrated skill. As your career progresses, you’ll often find yourself working with people who have access to critical information or resources that can significantly influence decisions. Knowing how to navigate these conversations, ask the right questions, and offer your own insights based on data can greatly enhance your professional network.

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In today’s workplace, both skills and people are transitory. Skills can be learned and upgraded, but people your colleagues, superiors, and mentors can move on, taking with them valuable knowledge and networks. This fluidity underscores the importance of building and maintaining trust, as relationships are the only constant in a sea of change.

As you navigate your career, remember that while skill will get you noticed, it’s the relationships you build that will sustain your success. Go ahead and network while you work, acquire new skills, and be mindful of the work itself. In the end, your network could be the difference between landing that next role or being overlooked.