How can you use networking to build a diverse and inclusive organization?

In my five years with AIESEC, I cultivated a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Volunteering in two francophone countries and facilitating conferences across 20 nations in the Middle East and Africa broadened my perspective. Post-AIESEC, my work spanned three continents—Africa, Europe, and remote collaboration in Southeast Asia. My networking approach involves fostering relationships with individuals from varied backgrounds. I've enriched organizational culture and ensured that decision-making incorporates various voices. Emphasizing inclusivity in networking has been crucial to building teams that thrive on diversity fostering innovation and understanding.

Diversity and Inclusion are not just tasks to check off the list. They are values that can directly impact quality of relationships. To nurture an inclusive and diverse space, it must be considered in both, formal and informal settings. As leaders in non-profit, it is important that we prioritise these values into action with consistency. When applied intentionally and consistently, we should experience better quality and meaningful relationships which is an important aspect in the non-profit space.

One thing I find helpful is to define your objectives prior to attending networking events and forums. Do your homework on the attendees and the ethos of the forum to align your business objectives and messaging That helps optimise your presence in any networking event and gain the most from your participation

One thing I have found helpful in my role as a non-profit leader is the ability to identify and cultivate connections in the most unexpected places. This not only broadened my non-profit's reach but also significantly improved the quality of service delivery, aligning perfectly with our commitment to inclusivity. I believe true progress in diversity and inclusion happens when we consciously step outside the boundaries, seeking to understand and collaborate with individuals who bring different viewpoints and experiences to the table.

Throughout my career, I have found that building a diverse and inclusive organization through networking involves intentional efforts and a commitment to fostering a supportive environment. It’s important to incorporate key strategies such as forging partnerships with organizations that share a commitment to diversity and inclusion, developing mentorship programs that connect employees across diverse backgrounds, offering ongoing training, and creating organizational policies that promote those values. By incorporating these strategies into your networking efforts, you can create a workplace where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is prioritized, and employees feel a sense of belonging.

In my experience it has been helpful to intentionally attend events that present a different view, or a new perspective, to what I am more comfortable with. I don’t need to necessarily agree with everything that’s being shared; it’s more about extending my thinking through meeting others and discussing what’s possible.

If you're a bit of an introvert like me, I find it very helpful to commit to meeting at least three new people during each networking event. I use this first interaction to uncover similar interests so we have something to talk about. When you follow-up, you can lead with the similar interests you shared and ask for a beverage date to ultimately get you to what product or service you offer that might fill their needs OR maybe they aren't the ideal client for you, but you built up a repore to where they may feel comfortable in referring you to someone else.

I always dive into small table groups of people to start a conversation. Always amazed to discover that often those small groups are all from the same company. Networking takes effort and is worth it.

Consider not just attending events focused on diversity and inclusion but delivering your own. Whether that be a knowledge-sharing workshop, a small virtual conference, or a meet-up of organisations with similar values, showing your commitment to solving challenges through investing your own resources, and being transparent about your own organisation's journey in the space will help you create authentic relationships and expand your network massively. I I cannot understate the value in building a passionate following or network on your own terms.

Listening and learning, especially from a diverse audience who has a perspective you’re not familiar with, begins by humbling yourself. You need to accept that you don’t know everything, and some of the things you do know may be wrong. Because nonprofit work can intersect with some of our deepest held beliefs and attitudes, it is easy for us to become entrenched in our existing beliefs. My career began by serving homeless veterans in a housing nonprofit. Some of my pre-existing attitudes about veterans were changed by getting to know the veterans themselves. When you are incorporating new people into your network, you need to be ready to listen. Absent that, all the diversity in the world won’t change how you think.

I found that one of the best ways to garner support from another organization or person is to take the time to understand what they need or want out of a potential relationship. Never discredit the value someone has as a possible extension. You may not need their skill now and vice versa, but when you or they do, it is nice to be able to just reach out and take advantage of a pre-built relationship.

Its an old saying that we are born with two ears and one mouth and to use them in that proportion. I have found that by listening to others and seeking to understand their prespective I am better informed and able to contribute to delivering outcomes by being better informed and respectful of opposing positions while remaining true to my own values and beliefs. It is through this openness and respect that we start to find common ground, which is a major step toward true cooperation and goodwill between parties.

Networking in todays day and age, and the concept of following up and following through is all the more important to include when thinking of digital communication, which can seem shallow at times. Platforms like LinkedIn and email enable frequent, informal interactions and offer innovative ways to provide value, such as sharing resources or collaborating virtually. While these tools are convenient, its important to balance them with personal interactions which are crucial for maintaining warmth and authenticity in professional relationships. Building a professional relationship in this way makes for more meaningful collaboration and a better sense of the other person and what their "why" is.

I concur with the notion that networking is a vital tool for facilitating diversity and inclusivity. It allows leaders to gain fresh insights from diverse sources, enhancing both personal growth and organizational effectiveness. However, it's essential to approach networking as more than just an exchange of information. It's about forging meaningful connections, fostering an environment of empathy and understanding. Leaders must strive to comprehend the unique challenges and aspirations of different communities, thereby making their organizations more responsive and inclusive.

In my experience, you can have all the connections and networking contacts in the world, but if you don't *use* them, then they're not serving you or your purpose. Learn how others have accomplished what you're trying to do, get insights and tips from other industries and see how those approaches can be molded to your needs, listen to where others are finding people and GO AFTER THOSE LEADS. Information is useless if it doesn't inform your actions.

One of the most important tools to ensure you are hiring diverse candidates is leveraging your network. Basing hiring on qualifications, many of which are based on antiquated education and experience, listed job descriptions ensures that incredible candidates will be overlooked. Making it clear that job descriptions are aspirational, and encouraging people in your network to apply based on their interest and goals is critical to hiring the best candidate.

I wholeheartedly agree. Networking for diversity and inclusion extends beyond simply forging relationships; it's about utilizing these connections to foster positive change. Collaborating on aligned projects or initiatives not only promotes synergy but also reinforces shared values. Advocating for contacts, endorsing their work, or acknowledging their accomplishments can strengthen relationships while empowering others. Leveraging your network amplifies your impact and influence, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

As a United Nations ambassador for peace, global speaker, and relationship expert, transparency is key to being relatable. Networking and building solid relationships require intentional communication. Collaboration over competition will ensure that you impact any space you're in and leave an indelible impression that will forge relatable relationships and grow your network consistently over time.

O networking tem que ser bidirecional e não ser usado apenas para ganhos individuais. A dica é que ele seja espontâneo R não uma obrigação.