In most organisations, career progression is influenced by two forms of currency: performance currency and relationship currency.

Performance currency is what gets you noticed, it is built through results, expertise, execution, and delivering value. Strong performance can lead to recognition, increased responsibility, higher compensation, and promotion opportunities. It may also attract sponsors; people who advocate for you in rooms where you are not present and help create opportunities for your advancement.

Relationship currency is different as it influences how others perceive your readiness for leadership, whether people trust your judgment, whether teams are willing to follow you, and whether stakeholders believe you will succeed in a larger role.

I think that many leadership decisions are made under conditions of uncertainty. When people are assessing potential, not just past performance, relationships often shape those judgments. Trust, credibility, and influence become important factors in the decision-making process. The most successful leaders understand that performance and relationships are not competing priorities. Performance creates credibility, relationships create opportunity and sustainable career growth requires both.