Dig Your Well Before You're Thirsty

by Trevor Calton

Your job is going away (eventually.) And if your plan is to only start networking or looking for your next move when you're unemployed or desperate, you're already too late.

That’s not networking. That’s panic.

Here’s the truth no one tells you: Most of the best opportunities don’t go to the best resumes. They go to the people who are top of mind before there’s even an opening.

This Is How Careers Really Work

The saying “Dig your well before you’re thirsty” (a clever title to a book about networking by one of my favorite authors, Harvey Mackay) means you start building relationships now, not later.

You stay connected. You check in. You offer value without asking for anything.

And then, when life takes a turn, you’ve got a well to draw from.

What This Actually Looks Like

It’s not about going to awkward networking events or blasting your resume to strangers.

It’s about doing simple, intentional things like:

• Reaching out to a former colleague just to say congrats
• Sending someone an article that made you think of them
• Commenting on a post with something thoughtful
• Asking a mentor, “What are you working on these days?”

These little touchpoints build familiarity and trust. They turn casual connections into real ones.

Why This Works So Well

When a new role opens up, most people don’t post it immediately. They ask around. They think, “Who do I know that could help with this?”

And the names that pop into their mind?

Those are the people who’ve been digging their well.

If You’re in a Dry Spell Now…

That’s OK. Start where you are.

Pick five people you admire. Reach out without an ‘ask’. Just reconnect.

Say:

• “Hey, I’ve been thinking about where I’m headed, and I realized I miss hearing your perspective.”
• “I’m doing some career reflection and remembered how much I learned from working with you.”

That’s it. No pitch. No pressure. Just re-opening the door.

Make This a Habit, Not a Panic Button

The most successful professionals I know? They build relationships even when things are going well.

Because they know that careers are long. And timing is everything.

The Bottom Line

If you wait until you need something, people can feel it. But if you show up consistently, curious, helpful, and human, you won’t need to chase down your next opportunity.

It’ll already be walking toward you.

Want to Learn the Full CBIO System?

Career Building from the Inside Out teaches you how to build a career before you’re in crisis. It’s a system for becoming visible, trusted, and in demand, without burning out or selling out.

👉 Check out the course here

Want to bring this message to your team or audience? Book me for a keynote or workshop