[Hoffmannnn]

The two aren't mutually exclusive. You can be genuinely interested in what somebody has to say, and still plan to use them later.

Don't kid yourself into thinking they wouldn't do the same for you -- instead, think of it as a mutual agreement to provide services to each other when needed.

[ZoF]

More like a mutual agreement to request services from each other when they are required.

E.g. to ask you if you want a particular contract (when it needs to be fulfilled regardless). Not to 'come up' with a contract because your 'bro' is out of work.