The Importance of Engaging with All Communities and Cultures in Networking

The Importance of Engaging with All Communities and Cultures in Networking

In today’s interconnected world, networking is far more than just swapping business cards or adding contacts on LinkedIn. To truly succeed in business, it’s vital to engage with people from all communities and cultures, particularly within your local area. Building relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds not only broadens your perspective but also strengthens your network, offering unique opportunities for collaboration and growth.

I recently had the pleasure of attending an event organised by Asian Business Leaders, where business figures from various sectors came together to gain a better understanding of Ramadan. The gathering served as a powerful reminder of the importance of engaging with people from all walks of life. Among the attendees were notable figures such as Frank Rothwell, who delivered the keynote speech, Craig Barratt from Foresight IT, and Janine Smith of the Greater Manchester GC Business Growth Hub.

The event, centred around an Iftar (the meal that breaks the fast during Ramadan), allowed participants to experience fasting for a day. This Muslim tradition, one of the five pillars of Islam, encourages kindness, self-discipline, and charity. Business leaders from industries such as IT, logistics, and HR took part in the fast to better understand their Muslim colleagues’ experiences during the holy month.

I reflected on how challenging it was to go without water on what was a particularly warm day, while Janine Smith mentioned that her busy schedule often means she forgets to eat, even without fasting. Frank Rothwell, who had previously worked in Abu Dhabi, shared his experiences of working alongside Muslim colleagues fasting in the intense heat, and how he adjusted his work schedule to respect their religious practices.

The event wasn’t just about fasting, though—it also provided a platform for discussing broader issues affecting the business community. Topics ranged from the impact of Brexit on the local economy to the importance of providing young people with practical training. I stressed the value of apprenticeships in his business, noting how many of his apprentices have gone on to secure full-time roles. Frank Rothwell echoed the need for practical skills, particularly for younger generations, and spoke about how he teaches his grandchildren hands-on skills to prepare them for the future.

Muzahid Khan DL, from Asian Business Leaders, highlighted the common ground between different faiths and emphasised the importance of building friendships and fostering understanding across cultural boundaries. He spoke about the need to rebuild these connections to ensure Oldham can once again thrive as a cohesive community.

This event was a strong reminder that networking isn’t just about expanding your business contacts—it’s about building meaningful relationships that bridge cultures, perspectives, and experiences. By engaging with people from different communities and learning about their traditions and values, you create a foundation of trust and mutual respect, which enhances your leadership and strengthens the local community.

As business leaders, it’s crucial to look beyond your immediate circle and actively seek connections across different cultures. Engaging with diverse groups brings fresh ideas, enriches your understanding, and contributes to a more inclusive and thriving local economy. Networking across communities helps to build the bridges that lead to shared success and a more resilient future for all.