Meaning: Soichiro Honda was a Japanese businessman and founder of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. This quote reflects his belief in the importance of diversity and openness in hiring practices. In essence, Honda is suggesting that if a company only hires people who are similar to the current employees or to the hiring managers themselves, the company will miss out on the opportunity to bring in individuals who may have different perspectives, skills, and ideas that could benefit the company.

Honda's statement emphasizes the need for leaders to recognize that their own understanding and preferences should not limit the potential of the company. By being open to hiring people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and personalities, a company can tap into a wider pool of talent and innovation.

In essence, Honda is advocating for a more inclusive and open-minded approach to hiring. He is suggesting that great talent can be found in unexpected places and among individuals who may not immediately resonate with the hiring manager. This challenges the conventional wisdom that hiring decisions should be based solely on personal familiarity or likability.

The quote also suggests that personal biases and preferences should not dictate hiring decisions. Instead, Honda encourages leaders to look beyond their own comfort zones and seek out individuals who may bring new and valuable perspectives to the company. This aligns with the idea that diversity in the workplace can lead to better problem-solving, creativity, and overall company performance.

From a practical standpoint, this quote underscores the importance of creating a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. By hiring people from different backgrounds and with different viewpoints, a company can foster an environment where varied perspectives are valued and where employees feel empowered to contribute their unique ideas and skills.

In summary, Honda's quote serves as a reminder to leaders and hiring managers that the success of a company is not limited to those who are familiar or personally preferred. By embracing diversity and being open to individuals who may not fit the traditional mold, a company can tap into a broader range of talent and potential. This philosophy aligns with the broader understanding that diverse teams are often more innovative, adaptable, and successful in today's dynamic business environment.