Business Success Through Diversified Networking
The ability to connect across differences is a crucial skill that can open doors to new opportunities and broaden an organization’s perspective. Embracing diverse people and views in social and professional networks not only enhances personal development but also contributes to the overall success of entire business communities.
The importance of networking with less familiar social circles cannot be overstated. Beyond shared interests and backgrounds, connecting with individuals who differ from oneself enriches understanding of neighboring communities and unveils a wide range of professional possibilities.
The Greater Good Science Center recommended a few basic steps for individuals to keep in mind when trying to make connections across a range of personality, cultural, religious, ethnic, and linguistic differences:
- The first step is to reflect and identify someone different from oneself in some way, but also create a sense of familiarity and safety.
- The next step involves commonalities listing. This means to discover shared interests, values, or experiences, and establishing a sense of connection that way.
- Finally, reflection is necessary to observe how recognizing shared human experiences transforms your perception of the individual and strengthens a new connection, be it personal or professional.
Forbes has highlighted the impact of network diversity on shaping perspectives and fostering equitable outcomes in business and professional organizations. From networks within companies to broader industry-spanning connections, diverse networking plays a pivotal role in decision-making, hiring and career success.
The Forbes article, “The Importance of Network Diversity” written by entrepreneur Rebekah Bastian, highlights the significance of diverse networks in shaping new opportunities: “While most networks are formed around a shared experience, such as the company we work for, the city we live in, or identities that we hold, it is important to be cognizant of the networks we are part of and the diversity that is present within them,” she wrote.
Bastian expressed that diversity in these networks leads to better individual decision-making and more fairness towards marginalized groups within companies.
“Given that our networks influence the way we think and the opportunities we give and receive, lack of diversity within these networks can propagate inequitable systems and create echo chambers of perspectives,” wrote Bastian.
She highlights the impact of network diversity on decision-making within professional networks. She advocates for intentional efforts to ensure diverse representation in mentorship, collaborations, and advice-seeking because of the impact.
Bastian categorizes networks into professional and social spheres. Professional networks, encompassing colleagues within a company and connections across industries, professions, and regions, benefit from intentional diversity and contribute to better career results.
Social networks, while not directly influencing careers, significantly shape one’s thoughts and ideas. This in practice involves diversifying or bringing together different parties both online and "in real life" social connections.
Forbes also shared 10 Useful Techniques for Building and Diversifying Your Personal Network. They offer practical strategies for network diversification. It is important to remember the intention behind networking, suggesting that connections are made with the goal of bringing value to relationships and expanding social capital.
Forbes recommends looking for complementary connections with other people. When planning or attending networking events, it is important to prioritize bringing different types and groups of people together.
One technique involves creating a list of essential connections that an organization feels are important features of any new professional network one is trying to build. Other techniques include leveraging professional organizations, getting more involved in local communities, and engaging with people you want to know on useful platforms like LinkedIn.
The advice from these articles aims to guide individuals and organizations in creating diverse and expansive networks utilizing accessible and conventional networking and socializing tools.
Amy Nauiokas, founder and president of Anthemis, a venture investment and financial advisory organization, echoed the sentiment that diverse networks spur creativity and innovation in her article for the Harvard Business Review.
Prior research revealed that individuals connected across heterogeneous (diverse) groups produce more creative solutions. Nauiokas stated the need for businesses and organizations to step out of comfort zones, try new experiences, and make mindfulness a cornerstone of networking.
“Rethinking what it means to network, and acting accordingly, requires ongoing work and intention, as I’ve learned firsthand.
Throughout my career, on Wall Street, in technology venture capital, and in media production, I’ve fostered a professional network that spans industries. Networking is central to my work as an investor and producer; it’s my role to connect great people, identify partnerships, connect visionaries with resources, and cross-pollinate ideas,” wrote Nauiokas.
Nauiokas focused on Frans Johansson's concept of "intersectional thinking" from The Medici Effect. The Medici Effect revolves around the belief that the collision of diverse insights from all over an industry is what will generate the best ideas.
Despite the clear benefits of a diverse network of people to collaborate with, some tend to gravitate towards familiar perspectives and limited networks which can be counterproductive. Including similar people and views will be part of any networking and organizing effort, however it is important to avoid the creation of echo chambers.
Nauiokas drew several practical strategies from her own experience that any employer, business leader or organization can work to intentionally expand their networking and outreach efforts.
First strategy: getting uncomfortable. Taking small steps to meet new people and explore unfamiliar territories is essential for broadening social groups and professional networks.
Second: making mindfulness a priority. Incorporating mindfulness into a networking approach involves not only tolerating but actively internalizing perspectives from diverse groups.
Third strategy: seeking collaborations. Collaborations create environments that foster healthy debate and divergent thinking. Groups with diverse backgrounds and thinking styles have the potential to drive innovation and creativity for an organization.
Fourth strategy: uniting around a charitable cause. Creating purposeful connections through shared activities or charitable initiatives is a time-tested opportunity to meet new people and make new connections in an atmosphere of generosity and mutual support.
Embracing the uncomfortable, seeking diverse perspectives, and intentionally fostering connections across differences will not only positively impact personal lives and expand individuals’ relationship circles, but it will also contribute to the collective strength of the organization, the business community and the social ecosystem as a whole.