Knowing the right people can save you a lot of time and effort in getting things done. If you enlist the help of your friends or relatives, emphasise to them how this particular assignment is only work-related and would not interfere with your personal relationship. It’s not wrong to ask for help once in a while, but don’t make it a habit. Continue to keep in close touch with them after they’ve rendered their assistance so they won’t feel like they’ve been dropped like a hot potato after they outlived their usefulness.

Another alternative is steering clear of using personal contacts for work. However, this would mean more leg-work for you. The most important thing is not to abuse your personal relationships for your career. If your friends decline to help you, respect their decision and not take it personally.