The Hidden Economy of Favours: How Relationships Shape Professional Growth

Over the weekend in Bangalore, we hosted an esteemed group of leaders for an engaging conversation around the “Hidden Economy of Favours” — the informal network of mutual support, shared credibility, introductions, and opportunities that quietly helps people move forward.

We often grow up believing that hard work alone creates a straightforward path to success. Yet, in today’s professional world, growth is also deeply influenced by who is willing to open a door, vouch for us, or help us find the next opportunity.

This “favor economy” is powerful because it is built on something deeply human: relationships. People support those they know, trust, and genuinely want to see succeed. But its real challenge emerges when we move beyond our immediate circles. The networks that come naturally to us eventually reach their limits, and building new relationships requires us to be more intentional.

The answer is not to treat relationships as transactions or keep a running score of favors. It is to build genuine connections, become comfortable asking for help, and be equally willing to offer it.

In the world of Intellectual Capital, this becomes particularly important. Interdependence is not a weakness; it is a strength. By challenging the awkwardness around asking for and offering help, we can build stronger professional communities — and, ultimately, rebuild the social fabric that makes both work and life more meaningful.