Are you game to try something with me?

Close your eyes and bring to mind your own trusted advisor—a person who is your safe haven for tough issues. Think of someone you can talk to about a wide range of topics, including sensitive ones both professional and personal.

There have been a few things in the news lately that have caught my attention. Last week, I wrote about ways to support a client who’s grieving, thanks to lessons offered by a well-known U.S. executive. This week takes a more upbeat turn with a lesson drawn from the world of U.S. horse racing.

Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg recently marked the end of her first 30 days of mourning for her late husband. Dave Goldberg died unexpectedly while they were vacationing in Mexico. On the last day of sheloshim, which marks the completion of religious mourning for a spouse, she shared a compelling and beautifully-written post on … well, Facebook, of course.

When I wrote last week’s tip I re-read David Maister’s article, “Young Professionals: Cultivate the Habits of Friendship.” Anything but a missive for junior folk, it’s chock full of wisdom for professionals of any age and experience level.

Last week’s tip about the friendly computer-generated message got me thinking more about the role that friendship skills play in business, and particularly in sales.