How to Build a Diverse Relationship Ecosystem
The Problem: A Myopic Approach to Relationships
The Solution: Building a Diverse Relationship Ecosystem
Imagine your professional network as a living, breathing ecosystem. Each connection represents a unique species, contributing to the overall health and diversity of your professional habitat. This is your relationship ecosystem.
But here's a crucial question: How diverse is your ecosystem? Are you surrounded by a rich variety of perspectives and experiences, or is your network a monoculture of similar minds?
The power of a truly diverse relationship ecosystem lies in its ability to expand your influence and propel you toward your goals. By cultivating connections across various industries, expertise levels, and backgrounds, you create a network that's not just wide but deep and dynamic.
This is the second article in our how-to series. If you missed the first one, where I discussed your top 100 relationships, you can read it here. In this article, I'll explore why diversifying your relationship ecosystem is critical for professional growth and how you can start building a network that opens doors you didn't even know existed.
If relationships are an investment, your checkbook and calendar reveal the breadth and depth of your connections. But here's the harsh truth: most professionals have a myopic view of their relationship ecosystem.
If you're in FinTech, do you primarily network with other FinTech professionals? If you're in cybersecurity, is your circle limited to fellow cybersecurity experts often found at the annual RSA? This narrow focus creates an echo chamber, stifling diversity of thought and limiting your influence.
Let's be clear: when I talk about diversity, I'm not just referring to ethnic or gender diversity, though those are crucial. I'm talking about cognitive diversity - unique perspectives and experiences that challenge your thinking and broaden your horizons.
The problem is that most of us don't think in terms of diverse relationship buckets. We stick to what's familiar and comfortable, overlooking the potential of connections in politics, international circles, or even different industries.
For example, a year ago, I realized I didn't know enough politicians. Why would anyone want more politicians in their network? Because they're influential. Local policies, like noise ordinances, affect our daily lives. By expanding my network to include policymakers, I've gained new insights and opportunities to better understand what influences their thinking and call to action.
The more diverse your relationship buckets, the broader your influence footprint. But most of us are trapped in a myopic view, missing out on the rich tapestry of connections that could propel our careers forward.
The answer to this myopic approach is cultivating a diverse relationship ecosystem. Think of your network as a collection of different buckets, each representing a unique sphere of influence or expertise.
At the macro level, start by categorizing relationships as personal or professional. Let's break these down:
Personal Buckets:
Educational alumni: University friends from undergraduate or graduate school
Hobby or passion groups (e.g., motorcycle enthusiasts, fly fishing clubs)
Civic and community organizations
Non-profit connections or boards you may serve on