The benefits of having a diverse network

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?