How can you build a network of engineering design leaders?

1 Identify your goals and interests

Before you start reaching out to potential contacts, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and what you are passionate about. Do you want to find a mentor, a partner, a sponsor, or a peer? Do you want to learn new skills, explore new opportunities, or share best practices? Do you want to join a community, a project, or a movement? Having specific and realistic goals and interests will help you narrow down your search and target the right people.

2 Research and follow

Once you have defined your goals and interests, you can start looking for engineering design leaders who match your criteria. You can use various sources, such as online platforms, publications, podcasts, events, or referrals, to find out who they are, what they do, and what they value. You can also follow them on social media, subscribe to their newsletters, or attend their webinars to get a sense of their style and personality. This will help you build familiarity and credibility, as well as identify common ground and potential conversation starters.

4 Nurture and grow

Once you have established a connection with some engineering design leaders, you need to nurture and grow your relationship over time. You can do this by staying in touch regularly, providing value, and showing gratitude. You can also seek their advice, support, or feedback, and offer your own in return. You can also invite them to join your network, collaborate on a project, or attend an event. You can also introduce them to other relevant contacts, and expand your circle of influence.

5 Learn and improve

The final step in building a network of engineering design leaders is to learn and improve from the experience. You can do this by reflecting on what worked and what didn't, and identifying areas for improvement. You can also ask for feedback from your contacts, and act on it accordingly. You can also measure your progress and achievements, and celebrate your successes. You can also share your learnings and insights with others, and contribute to the engineering design community.

6 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?