In a recent LinkedIn post, Maryann (MJ) Jamieson discusses the critical difference between superficial professional connections and genuine allies, particularly during challenging times. Jamieson emphasizes that true loyalty is demonstrated not by obligation, but by choice, especially when that choice involves personal cost or inconvenience.
Jamieson highlights that the most valuable people in one’s professional life are not those who are merely present but those who actively choose to support an individual. She contrasts superficial interactions with meaningful support, stating:
“There’s a difference between:
→ The colleague who comments when you get a promotion
✅ The colleague who supports you when your project is under pressure
→ The boss who gives token platitudes in public
✅ The boss who fights for you behind closed doors”
The core of Jamieson’s argument is that adversity reveals true character and the strength of relationships. She points out that during difficult periods, such as a startup failure, team elimination, or a missed promotion, some connections inevitably fade away. However, Jamieson argues that those who remain do so not out of duty but out of a deliberate choice to stand by the individual.
The Cost of True Allyship
Jamieson elaborates on the concept of ‘showing up in the storm.’ She argues that genuine allies are those who invest their time, energy, and reputation when it is difficult to do so, and when there is no immediate personal gain. This act of showing up, even when it ‘costs them something,’ is the defining characteristic of a true supporter.
According to Jamieson, these individuals distinguish themselves through actions that go beyond mere professional courtesy. She notes:
“The ones who share credit when they could claim it all.
The ones who make introductions when you have nothing to offer back.
The ones who defend your reputation when you’re not there to defend it yourself.”
Jamieson emphasizes that these actions are not driven by obligation or expectation of reciprocation, but by a genuine commitment to the individual. This voluntary support, she suggests, forms the bedrock of the most meaningful and valuable professional relationships.
Choosing Loyalty Over Convenience
Jamieson’s post underscores that the choice to support someone during hardship is a powerful indicator of their character and the potential depth of the relationship. She posits that such choices reveal the people who are truly invested in one’s success and well-being.
As Jamieson concludes:
“That choice tells you everything you need to know.
Those are the relationships worth everything.
Those are the people who deserve your loyalty in return.
Those are your genuine allies.
And they’re rarer than you think.”
Jamieson encourages readers to recognize and value these rare individuals, suggesting that cultivating and reciprocating loyalty towards true allies is paramount in building a robust and supportive professional network.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Maryann (MJ) Jamieson on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on April 11, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →