MAKING CONNECTIONS
People with similar backgrounds and values are likely to appreciate similar things, pay attention to similar causes, and place similar priorities on particular issues. Homophily's power also lies in its ability to strengthen a person's identification with and link to a group. It fosters a sense of belonging, creates camaraderie, and strengthens a leader's overall sense of well-being. Demographic similarity also eases the social integration of a manager into an existing team and connects him or her to existing power centers, making it easier for the manager to sell his or her ideas to senior leaders.
In addition, homophily makes connections possible, shaping and sustaining the networks that exist in a company. Networks develop ...
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