Connect: Building Bridges That Last

Over the past six months, I’ve had the privilege of attending several NBA events, reconnecting with dozens of current staff and alumni, and strengthening ties with former league partners and contacts I’ve met throughout my career. This process of reconnection has been both nostalgic and deeply rewarding, sparking an important reflection: Are our professional interactions merely transactional moments in time, or are we building something meaningful that will endure long after we’ve moved on?

The Importance of Building Bridges

We’ve all heard the adage, “Don’t burn bridges.” While this is sound advice, it overlooks a more critical truth: You can’t burn bridges that were never built in the first place. The real challenge—and opportunity—lies in constructing those bridges from the very beginning of your professional journey. Building relationships isn’t about being overly agreeable or avoiding conflict. In fact, some of my strongest connections are with people I’ve disagreed with or negotiated tough deals alongside. I’ve been told I’m not one to shy away from difficult conversations, but those conversations are far more productive when grounded in mutual respect and trust. Relationships built on authenticity and shared purpose are the ones that stand the test of time.

Navigating the Professional Landscape

As you progress in your career, you’ll encounter a wide range of people—some you’ll work with closely, others you’ll only meet in passing. They may be peers, mentors, or individuals at vastly different levels of the organizational hierarchy. Roles change, teams evolve, and over time, it becomes impossible to maintain close contact with everyone you’ve crossed paths with. This raises a pivotal question: What will people remember about you when your paths diverge?

A former colleague once shared a compliment that has stayed with me: “You’re one of those people who leads by example. Watching how you’ve navigated our unique environment while staying true to your values and priorities has been an inspiration to me and others.” Feedback like this is a powerful reminder that the way we show up—how we treat others, how we handle challenges, and how we prioritize relationships—leaves a lasting impression. It’s not just about what we accomplish, but how we make others feel along the way.

Building for the Future

The time to think about relationships isn’t when you’re leaving a role—it’s from the moment you arrive. Building bridges is an investment that pays dividends both in the present and the future. As we continue to grow Two Nomads into something special, these relationships have been—and will remain—critical to our success. I’ve leaned on former colleagues and business partners for advice, introductions, and collaborations, and their support has been invaluable.

This brings me to an exciting update: Two Nomads is preparing for a trip to Senegal. For years, the NBA Africa team has encouraged us to visit, and after some focused conversations at the All-Star Game, the plan is finally in motion. Knowing we have friends and partners on the ground makes this journey even more meaningful. We’re thrilled to return to Africa and explore another vibrant corner of this incredible continent. None of this would be possible without the relationships we’ve cultivated over the years—proof that the bridges we build today can open doors to extraordinary opportunities tomorrow.

Your Turn

What strategies have you found most effective in building and maintaining professional relationships? How have these connections shaped your career or opened unexpected doors? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!