You want to get promoted in Lean Manufacturing. What’s the best way to build your network?

1 Find your tribe

The first step to building your network is to find your tribe. Your tribe is a group of people who have similar interests, goals, and values as you in lean manufacturing. They can be your colleagues, mentors, peers, or friends. You can find your tribe by joining online communities, forums, groups, or podcasts that focus on lean topics. You can also attend local events, workshops, or conferences that bring together lean practitioners and enthusiasts. The key is to be active, engaged, and curious. Ask questions, share your insights, and offer your help.

3 Seek feedback

The third step to building your network is to seek feedback. Seeking feedback means asking for opinions, suggestions, or advice from your tribe. It can be about your work, your career, your skills, or your goals. For example, you can ask for feedback on a problem you're facing, a project you're working on, a skill you're learning, or a goal you're pursuing. You can also ask for feedback on how to improve your communication, leadership, or teamwork skills. The goal is to show your humility, curiosity, and willingness to learn.

4 Follow up

The fourth step to building your network is to follow up. Following up means staying in touch, maintaining contact, and nurturing relationships with your tribe. It can be in the form of a thank you note, a follow-up question, a check-in message, or a catch-up call. For example, you can thank someone for their feedback, ask them how they implemented it, update them on your progress, or invite them to chat more. You can also congratulate them on their achievements, celebrate their milestones, or support their endeavors. The goal is to show your appreciation, interest, and loyalty.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?