Learn how to build relationships with people passionate about diversity and inclusion in media. Find, connect, and grow with people who can help you create meaningful and impactful content.

As a seasoned Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) expert with over two decades of experience in marketing, advertising, PR, and academia, I have come to understand that building relationships with those passionate about DEI in media is a continuous journey. The media landscape, a powerful shaper and reflector of societal norms, demands that we not only form networks but nurture a community deeply invested in inclusive representation. As a tenured professor, I spearheaded and modeled multicultural media pedagogy that extended beyond the classroom. In short, I fostered an educational environment where diverse voices were heard and valued, laying the foundation for my approach to relationship building in the DEI space. TaDa!

How can you build relationships with people passionate about diversity and inclusion in media?

Diversity and inclusion (D&I) are not just buzzwords, but essential values for any media professional who wants to create meaningful and impactful content. However, D&I are not always easy to achieve, especially in an industry that is often dominated by certain groups and perspectives. How can you build relationships with people who share your passion for D&I and learn from their experiences and insights? Here are some tips to help you network for diversity and inclusion in media.

1 Identify your goals and interests

Before you start reaching out to potential contacts, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and what you are curious about. Do you want to learn more about a specific topic, genre, or audience? Do you want to find mentors, collaborators, or allies? Do you want to explore new opportunities or challenges? Having a specific goal and interest will help you narrow down your search and tailor your messages.

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2 Research and follow relevant people and organizations

One of the best ways to find people who are passionate about D&I in media is to do some research and follow their work. You can use social media platforms, podcasts, blogs, newsletters, or online communities to discover and follow people and organizations that are doing interesting and innovative work in D&I. You can also look for events, webinars, workshops, or conferences that are related to your interest and see who is speaking or attending. By following their work, you can learn more about their perspectives, values, and projects, and also show your genuine interest and appreciation.

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3 Engage and interact with them

Once you have identified and followed some potential contacts, you need to engage and interact with them to build rapport and trust. You can do this by commenting on their posts, sharing their work, asking questions, giving feedback, or joining their conversations. You can also reach out to them directly via email, direct message, or phone call, but make sure you have a clear and respectful purpose and a personalized message. Avoid generic or spammy messages that only ask for favors or information. Instead, focus on expressing your admiration, curiosity, or commonality, and offer value or support.

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Professor Shanita Baraka Akintonde MBA, M.Ed., DTM

⭐️International Speaker⭐️Author⭐️Professor⭐️ Wife ⭐️Mother ⭐️Marketing Maven ⭐️Advertising Aficionado ⭐️PR Pro ⭐️Podcast Host ⭐️Hip Hop Lover⭐️Storyteller
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To engage others, regardless of the spaces that I occupy, I find that sharing my personal story is a unifying act. My path as a black, female, first-generation college graduate who self-financed her education through scholarships and employment has been a journey of resilience and determination. I share these personal experiences to connect with others on a deeper level, highlighting the tangible impact of diversity, equity, and inclusion in real life. As an entrepreneur, educator, author, professional speaker, and podcast host, I leverage these platforms to offer fresh insights and perspectives on DEI. Whether I'm speaking in San Diego or South Africa, I recognize and address the unique DEI needs and challenges of each audience.

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4 Maintain and deepen the relationship

Building relationships with people passionate about D&I in media is not a one-time thing, but a continuous process that requires effort and commitment. You need to maintain and deepen the relationship by staying in touch, following up, providing updates, and showing gratitude. You can also look for ways to collaborate, support, or learn from each other, such as by joining a project, joining a mentorship program, or taking a course together. By maintaining and deepening the relationship, you can create a meaningful and mutually beneficial connection that can help you grow and advance in your media career.

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Professor Shanita Baraka Akintonde MBA, M.Ed., DTM

⭐️International Speaker⭐️Author⭐️Professor⭐️ Wife ⭐️Mother ⭐️Marketing Maven ⭐️Advertising Aficionado ⭐️PR Pro ⭐️Podcast Host ⭐️Hip Hop Lover⭐️Storyteller
Report contribution
As a seasoned Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) expert with over two decades of experience in marketing, advertising, PR, and academia, I have come to understand that building relationships with those passionate about DEI in media is a continuous journey. The media landscape, a powerful shaper and reflector of societal norms, demands that we not only form networks but nurture a community deeply invested in inclusive representation. As a tenured professor, I spearheaded and modeled multicultural media pedagogy that extended beyond the classroom. In short, I fostered an educational environment where diverse voices were heard and valued, laying the foundation for my approach to relationship building in the DEI space. TaDa!

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5 Expand your network

Finally, you can expand your network by connecting with other people who are also passionate about D&I in media. You can ask your existing contacts for introductions or referrals, or join online or offline groups, communities, or networks that are focused on D&I. You can also attend or host events, webinars, workshops, or meetups that are related to D&I and meet new people there. By expanding your network, you can diversify your perspectives, increase your opportunities, and amplify your impact.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you build relationships with people passionate about diversity and inclusion in media?

1

2

3

4

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1 Identify your goals and interests

2 Research and follow relevant people and organizations

3 Engage and interact with them

4 Maintain and deepen the relationship

5 Expand your network

6 Here’s what else to consider

Career Development Coaching

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How can you build relationships with people passionate about diversity and inclusion in media?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Identify your goals and interests

2 Research and follow relevant people and organizations

3 Engage and interact with them

4 Maintain and deepen the relationship

5 Expand your network

6 Here’s what else to consider

Career Development Coaching

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