I have some “friends” who only talk to me when they need some favors. When that happens, my first thought usually is: “how much trouble do I need to go through in order to help?” Based on that, I would then make the decision of whether I could help or not.
I have some other friends who hardly ever ask me for anything. On top of that, they would constantly offer to help me out. Of course, these are the people whom I would go out of my way to help.
There is no question which group we all would like to belong in someone’s network. That’s not the point.
The point is, relationships, the good ones at least, take time to build. If you do someone one favor and expect some kind of return, then that’s close to a business transaction than it is to a friendship. People don’t care about business transactions.
We also shouldn’t be spoiled by the generous people around us (online or offline) and forget that the generosity should be returned.
Most importantly, when you have been generously giving for a long period of time, don’t be surprised that people will gladly buy something you sell or recommend without asking any questions. That’s the trust you have earned when you become a friend.
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