36: David Burkus | How to Become a Networking Superconnector

Homophily

The concept of homophily, where similar individuals cluster together, can limit diversity and the flow of new information. David Burkus explains that even when actively networking, people often end up connecting with those who are similar to their existing network, thus missing out on diverse perspectives. This phenomenon is evident in organizations like Gimlet, where efforts to diversify were initially limited to hiring from familiar circles, leading to a lack of ideological diversity 1.

Homophily is really interesting because you can even think like, no, I'm open minded. I'm not a bigot. I love diversity. I'm reaching out to all of these people and then look around your network and realize, no, they're all like me because I haven't been deliberate enough about who I'm connecting with and who I'm maintaining relationships with.

--- David Burkus

Jordan Harbinger and David discuss the importance of making a concerted effort to reach beyond usual networks to truly benefit from diverse information and perspectives.

   

Diversity Issues

Organizational diversity issues often stem from reliance on existing networks, which can perpetuate homophily. David Burkus highlights how organizations struggle to diversify, especially at senior levels, due to dependence on familiar networks for recruitment 2. This reliance creates a clustering effect, where communities become too segregated, limiting exposure to new ideas and business models 3.

Homophily is literally what happens when clustering goes too far.

--- David Burkus

Jordan Harbinger and David emphasize the need for deliberate efforts to expand networks beyond familiar circles to foster true diversity and innovation.