Never hand over your high-value contacts to anyone you have not thoroughly vetted.

Many people operate with a scarcity mindset by default. They often carry a sense of urgency where their only focus is their next meal.

I remember a situation many years ago when I introduced one of my contacts to a high-value connection of mine. I felt I could trust him, believing that if he aligned well with the gentleman, he could secure a job.

Instead, he ended up going to the man’s DMs to consistently beg for money.

This man is a highly respected businessman who is well-known in his industry (names withheld). Initially, he kept that information from me.

One day, I shared a challenge with him, and as we started discussing other matters, he eventually mentioned that the person I introduced had started begging him for money.

I felt like the ground should open up and swallow me.

I couldn’t find the words to remedy that moment, but guess what?

This same mistake was enough for him to cut me off as well. I have seen it happen far too many times.

Access is a gift.

Preserve that access.

Always vet before exposure.