In networking, someone you don’t have a lot in common with could be a connector between you and a whole world of people you might not otherwise be able to meet. The more diverse your network, the more likely you are to find valuable linkages between people like you and people unlike you. The more of these linkages you can make, the stronger your network can be—and the broader your opportunities. If you wish to build a powerful business network, branch out. Build a diverse network of professional contacts that includes people who don’t look like you, sound like you, speak like you, or share your background, education, or history.

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