What are the best ways to build and maintain a case manager network?

1 Join professional associations

One of the easiest and most effective ways to build and maintain a case manager network is to join professional associations that match your interests, goals, and credentials. Professional associations can provide you with access to educational events, certification programs, publications, and online forums where you can connect with other case managers, learn from their experiences, and share your insights. Some examples of professional associations for case managers are the Case Management Society of America (CMSA), the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), and the American Nurses Association (ANA).

2 Attend conferences and workshops

Another way to build and maintain a case manager network is to attend conferences and workshops that are relevant to your field, specialty, or niche. Conferences and workshops can offer you the opportunity to learn about the latest trends, best practices, and innovations in case management, as well as to network with other attendees, speakers, and exhibitors. You can also participate in breakout sessions, roundtables, and panels where you can exchange ideas, ask questions, and offer feedback. Some examples of conferences and workshops for case managers are the CMSA Annual Conference and Expo, the NASW National Conference, and the ANA Quality and Innovation Conference.

3 Use social media and online platforms

A third way to build and maintain a case manager network is to use social media and online platforms that can help you reach out to a wider and more diverse audience of case managers, experts, and influencers. Social media and online platforms can enable you to follow, like, comment, and share content that is relevant to your profession, as well as to create your own content that showcases your expertise, achievements, and opinions. You can also join groups, communities, and chats where you can interact with other case managers, ask for advice, and offer support. Some examples of social media and online platforms for case managers are LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Quora.

4 Seek mentorship and coaching

A fourth way to build and maintain a case manager network is to seek mentorship and coaching from someone who has more experience, knowledge, or skills than you in case management. Mentorship and coaching can provide you with personalized guidance, feedback, and encouragement that can help you improve your performance, overcome challenges, and achieve your goals. You can also learn from your mentor's or coach's network, referrals, and recommendations. You can find a mentor or coach through your professional associations, employer, or online platforms, or you can reach out to someone you admire or respect in your field.

5 Volunteer and collaborate

A fifth way to build and maintain a case manager network is to volunteer and collaborate with other case managers, organizations, or causes that are aligned with your values, interests, or passions. Volunteering and collaborating can help you demonstrate your skills, knowledge, and commitment, as well as to make a positive impact on your community or society. You can also meet new people, build relationships, and create opportunities for future partnerships or projects. You can volunteer and collaborate through your professional associations, employer, or online platforms, or you can look for local or global initiatives that need your help.

6 Stay in touch and follow up

A sixth way to build and maintain a case manager network is to stay in touch and follow up with the people you meet, connect with, or learn from in your profession. Staying in touch and following up can help you nurture your relationships, show your appreciation, and create trust and rapport. You can also update them on your progress, achievements, or challenges, as well as to offer your assistance, referrals, or resources. You can stay in touch and follow up through email, phone, social media, or online platforms, or you can send cards, gifts, or invitations.

7 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?