Let’s grow networks instead of reinforcing proverbial silos
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When you hear the word “silo,” what comes to mind? As Hoosiers, we may immediately picture a farm structure full of grain or soybeans, safely storing valuable crops. But in other contexts, silos aren’t quite as effective.
In companies, when various departments don’t share information, it can create confusion and redundancies. When nonprofits work in isolation, it can create missed opportunities and waste resources. And as leaders, working in silos weakens our relationships and diminishes our impact.
At Leadership Indianapolis, we think a lot about how to build networks rather than silos – networks between leaders, networks between organizations, and networks between communities.
We know that when leaders are part of more diverse networks, their decisions are more informed. We know that when organizations are part of broader networks, they are better able to anticipate and address challenges. And when communities are in conversation with other communities, they learn that there are shared issues and perhaps shared solutions.
With that belief in mind, we are part of the recently established National Community Leadership Collaborative, a network of community leadership organizations from around the country working to figure out how we can leverage shared strategy, develop collaborative ventures and find common ground on complex issues.
I’ve found it incredibly valuable to be in conversation with leaders in other states who are tackling familiar challenges. I am motivated by those who are using similar approaches and am inspired by those using different strategies. By sharing resources, ideas and best practices outside our own backyards, we can learn from each other and accelerate progress – taking care that we don’t lose sight of what makes us special and unique as Hoosiers.
Growing a strong network requires building relationships, and to do so effectively, we must approach our work with a collaborative spirit rather than a competitive one. We must create environments where others don’t have to lose in order for us to win. We must commit to trusting others and be intentional about our own trustworthiness.
What associations or collaboratives exist in your industry that you haven’t fully explored? What other industries might offer unexpected insight into the work you are doing? What other communities, inside Indiana or in another state, are facing similar challenges and might be willing to talk?
Big problems require innovative solutions, the kind that rarely come from a single person, with a single perspective, in a single industry.
Let’s look for opportunities to work together, build strong networks, and leverage our collective efforts rather than standing alone.