What are the benefits of having a diverse network of contacts for your business?

1 Diversity of perspectives

One of the benefits of having a diverse network of contacts is that you can gain different perspectives on various aspects of your business, such as marketing, sales, customer service, innovation, and problem-solving. By interacting with people from different backgrounds, industries, roles, and experiences, you can learn new insights, ideas, and best practices that can enhance your own performance and decision-making. You can also avoid groupthink, confirmation bias, and blind spots that may limit your creativity and growth.

2 Diversity of resources

Another benefit of having a diverse network of contacts is that you can access a wider range of resources that can support your business goals and needs. For example, you can find potential partners, suppliers, investors, mentors, or referrals that can help you expand your market, improve your product or service, secure funding, or overcome challenges. You can also leverage the skills, knowledge, and connections of your contacts to fill in the gaps or complement your own strengths. Additionally, you can tap into the diversity of your network to access new opportunities, such as joint ventures, collaborations, or projects that can benefit both parties.

3 Diversity of feedback

A third benefit of having a diverse network of contacts is that you can receive more honest and constructive feedback on your business, products, services, or performance. By seeking input from people who have different perspectives, experiences, and expectations, you can get a more balanced and comprehensive view of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as areas for improvement or innovation. You can also use the feedback from your network to test your assumptions, validate your ideas, or measure your results. Furthermore, you can appreciate the diversity of feedback as a way to learn, grow, and improve your business.

4 Diversity of support

A fourth benefit of having a diverse network of contacts is that you can enjoy more emotional and social support for your business journey. Running a business can be stressful, lonely, and challenging, and having a diverse network of contacts can provide you with different types of support, such as encouragement, advice, empathy, or humor. You can also rely on your network to celebrate your achievements, share your challenges, or vent your frustrations. Moreover, you can benefit from the diversity of support by building trust, rapport, and loyalty with your contacts, as well as giving back and helping others.

5 How to build a diverse network

Building a diverse network of contacts for your business can bring many benefits, but how do you go about it? To start, be proactive and intentional in seeking out people who are different from you. Attend events, join groups, or use platforms that cater to diverse audiences. When initiating conversations, be curious and open-minded; ask open-ended questions and listen actively without making assumptions or judgments. Additionally, focus on building relationships based on mutual value and benefit; offer help without expecting anything in return and be sure to express your gratitude. Lastly, follow up with your contacts regularly to keep the relationship alive.

6 How to maintain a diverse network

Building a diverse network of contacts is not enough, you must also maintain it and make it work for your business. To do so, be consistent and reliable by communicating with your contacts frequently and updating them on your progress. Share relevant information and honor commitments to them. Additionally, be adaptable and flexible by recognizing different communication styles, preferences, or needs. Be open to changing plans or strategies based on their input or feedback. Moreover, be authentic and respectful by showing your personality, values, and passion. Be honest about goals, needs, or challenges and be respectful of theirs. Acknowledge and celebrate their diversity, achievements, or contributions.