How do you build a lean network of mentors and peers?

1 Identify your goals

Before you start looking for mentors and peers, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with lean manufacturing. What are your specific objectives, challenges, and gaps? What skills, knowledge, and insights do you need to develop? How will you measure your progress and results? Having a clear vision of your goals will help you find the right people to support you and guide you.

2 Seek diverse perspectives

Lean manufacturing is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires creativity, adaptation, and continuous improvement. Therefore, you should seek mentors and peers who have different backgrounds, experiences, and opinions. This will help you broaden your horizons, challenge your assumptions, and learn from different perspectives. You can find diverse mentors and peers in various forums, events, groups, and platforms related to lean manufacturing.

3 Build trust and rapport

To build a meaningful and lasting network of mentors and peers, you need to establish trust and rapport. This means being respectful, honest, and curious. You should show genuine interest in your mentors and peers, listen to their stories and feedback, and share your own. You should also be willing to give and receive value, support, and recognition. Trust and rapport are the foundations of any successful relationship.