The benefits of having a diverse network

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Humans are social creatures, one of our deepest-wired behaviours is to build a social circle. Building our social circle helps us feel grounded, safe and connected. However, we need to be aware of the pitfalls that can come with the networks we build.

Usually, we form our networks around shared experience: where we work, where we live, common interests, and our background. These networks influence our perspectives, beliefs, and ideas. This can be really positive for us: we access community, support and connection. However, the risk is that without diverse networks our perspective on the world is very narrow. If left unchecked, this can mean we fail to truly ‘see’ other people and become disconnected from our capacity for empathy and curiosity.

That’s why this National Inclusion Week our fourth daily action is ‘The power of a diverse network: expand your circle’. We’ve shared some of the benefits of a diverse network in this blog, and you can take a look at our Daily Action activities to expand this further.

The benefits of a diverse network: embracing different perspectives

At its core, developing a diverse network is about expanding your perspective of the world around you. Imagine a recent work challenge you faced as a 3d object. When you look at the object you can only see one side at a time, your view of the challenge is limited. However, if you have other people in the room with you, together you can get a three-dimensional view of the challenge and therefore more chance of solving it. A diverse network can help you develop a wide range of different perspectives on the world.

The benefits of a diverse network: ideas and innovation

The saying ‘if you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you’ve always got’ applies to your network too. If the people around you see the world the same way you do, the likelihood of groupthink increases. In today’s workplace and complex fast-moving world, we need innovation and disruption. If you’re a leader or in any decision-making position this is even more vital: can you be sure that you aren’t surrounded by people who say ‘yes’ to you regardless of the merit in your proposals? Who could the ‘unusual suspects’ be for you, that you could bring in as critical friends on your work? How could you invite and reward different perspectives?

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The benefits of a diverse network: new opportunities

Think about your current LinkedIn connections. How diverse are they in terms of race, gender, disability, nationality, even sector? A more diverse network brings with it new opportunities. This could be for collaboration, for instance you may want to set up a networking discussion group for you and your peers; to investigate your next career move; to broaden your talent pipeline or to learn something new.

Social media algorithms tend to give us similar content to what we engage with: this can mean our ‘feed’ becomes an echo chamber. However, you can make the algorithm work for you. Start following and engaging with different content and more will be recommended to you. There are plenty of interesting and engaging people of colour, disabled people, LGBTQ+ people on these and more sharing their perspectives on these platforms.

The benefits of a diverse network: personal growth

Finally, developing your network to be more diverse supports your personal growth. As humans we understand the world via the people around us. If we open our minds to other people’s identities, experiences and cultures we can grow and change. We deepen our empathy, we gain a broader view of the world, and we can approach things differently. The rewards are deep and lifelong.

And finally…

Before you embark on a LinkedIn networking spree, take a breath.

Think about what outcome you want. Do you want to hear different voices? Deepen connections in your industry? Look for mentors, or be someone’s mentor?

It’s important to approach this thoughtfully: you aren’t collecting connections like a diversity shopping list. The aim here is to be open and curious, and to build connections with people outside your usual circles. Look for common ground: you could be in the same job role or sector. Aim to build a connection, not be tokenistic or one-sided. It’s a two-way relationship.

We would love to hear how you have expanded your network this National Inclusion Week or how having a diverse network has worked for you. Please share your thoughts with us on LinkedIn or Twitter.

Our upcoming events

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January 14 2025 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Advance Inclusion in your workplace

Advance Inclusion in Your Workplace Today

The benefits of having a diverse network

Advance Inclusion in your workplace

The benefits of a diverse network: embracing different perspectives

The benefits of a diverse network: ideas and innovation

Could you be National Inclusion Week’s next sponsor?

The benefits of a diverse network: new opportunities

The benefits of a diverse network: personal growth

And finally…

Our upcoming events

Advance Inclusion in your workplace

Further National Inclusion Week blogs