It’s the penultimate cliché of modern life to express one’s busyness. Time has become a scarce and precious resource. How are you going to use it?

It follows that making time to share your knowledge or insights with someone, make an introduction or share a valued contact is a gesture that carries great value for the sharer and share-ee (I made that word up, but you know where I’m coming from).

I’m not talking about delivering a presentation at an industry conference, confirming your status as a friend or connection on your social network of choice or even writing a reference for someone (does anyone do that anymore?). I’m not even talking about formal mentoring or coaching.

I’m talking about real time. Taking time out of busy work and personal lives to give generously of your personal experience, opinion or perspectives with the goal of helping someone else achieve their goals.

Given, we can’t be hanging out all day having coffee with friends of friends of colleagues past. But there are people that I like to call up from time-to-time, seeking out their wise counsel. Likewise, I try hard to make time for those people that seek out my thoughts and perspectives.

I’m a firm believer in what goes around, comes around. I’ve certainly been the recipient of this kind of career karma. It takes a little while to return the investment but it does, with interest.

So give generously when someone you believe in asks for your advice. Your time is a sound investment in your (and someone else’s) future.