Hey Friends,

In uncertain times like these, stress is high, job security feels fragile, and opportunities can seem scarce. But here’s the truth: The more we give, the more we gain—especially when it comes to our careers.

Having a strong network of peers, mentors, and sponsors isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a game-changer. The professionals who thrive—even in turbulent times—are the ones who understand that lifting others up isn’t a distraction from their success; it’s a multiplier of opportunities.

So today, let’s take a moment to reflect: Are you acting with generosity in your career? Are you sharing opportunities, advocating for others, mentoring, and sponsoring where you can? If not, you could be missing a powerful way to expand your influence, credibility, and long-term career prospects.

Here are three research-backed strategies to make generosity part of your career playbook:

1. The Reciprocity Principle: Give First, Gain Later

Research in social psychology (Cialdini, Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion) shows that people naturally return favors, making generosity a powerful career tool. When you help others—whether by sharing job leads, making introductions, or mentoring—opportunities often come back to you in unexpected ways.

Your Move:

Take five minutes to help someone move forward. Share an open role with a colleague who’s job searching, introduce two people who could benefit from knowing each other, or send a quick note of appreciation to someone whose work you admire. Small, intentional actions create lasting goodwill.

2. The Sponsorship Effect: Advocate for Others Publicly

Research by the Center for Talent Innovation highlights that sponsorship—actively advocating for someone behind closed doors—has a bigger impact on career advancement than mentorship alone. Professionals with sponsors are more likely to land promotions, high-visibility projects, and leadership roles.

Your Move:

Leverage your influence in a meaningful way. In your next meeting, highlight a colleague’s contributions to leadership. If you’re in a hiring or promotion discussion, advocate for a talented peer who might not have the same visibility. If you’re on LinkedIn, publicly endorse someone’s expertise by commenting on their work or sharing their post with your network.

3. The Abundance Mindset: Expand the Pie, Don’t Hoard It

Scarcity thinking tells us that opportunities are limited, leading people to withhold information, contacts, or resources. But research from Adam Grant (Give and Take) shows that generous professionals—“givers”—build more meaningful networks, create long-term success, and are often the most well-respected leaders.

Your Move:

Instead of seeing career opportunities as a zero-sum game, ask: Who else can benefit from what I know? Share industry insights, introduce people in your network, and support others without hesitation.

Generosity Pays Off—But Only If You Act on It

Your career is more than a collection of jobs—it’s a web of relationships. And the more you invest in helping others, the more career opportunities you’ll attract in return.

So, here’s my challenge to you: What’s one way you can practice generosity in your career this week? Hit reply and let me know—I’d love to hear how you’re making an impact.

Cheering you on,

Nitza
Owner | Nitza Rivera Coaching & Consulting

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About the Author: Nitza Rivera is an executive coach and human capital consultant with a background in mechanical engineering and HR. She helps professionals master career transitions, achieve their dream roles, and find lasting career fulfillment. Nitza is passionate about aligning professional growth with personal values and guiding individuals through meaningful career transformations.

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