What are the most effective ways to develop and maintain your professional network in Quality Management?

1 Join relevant associations and groups

One of the first steps to expand your professional network in QM is to join relevant associations and groups that align with your interests, goals, and values. Associations and groups can offer you access to events, publications, courses, certifications, and forums that can help you enhance your knowledge and skills in QM. They can also connect you with other QM professionals who share your passion and vision. Some examples of QM associations and groups are the American Society for Quality (ASQ), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the Project Management Institute (PMI), and the European Organization for Quality (EOQ).

2 Attend events and conferences

Another effective way to grow your professional network in QM is to attend events and conferences that are relevant to your field and industry. Events and conferences can expose you to new ideas, trends, and innovations in QM, as well as provide opportunities to meet and interact with experts, peers, and potential collaborators. You can also showcase your own work and achievements, and gain feedback and recognition from others. Some examples of QM events and conferences are the ASQ World Conference on Quality and Improvement, the ISO Quality Management Conference, the PMI Global Conference, and the EOQ Quality Congress.

3 Connect online and offline

A third effective way to develop and maintain your professional network in QM is to connect online and offline with people who can add value to your career and personal growth. Online platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Quora can help you find and follow QM influencers, mentors, and role models, as well as join QM communities, groups, and discussions. You can also share your own insights, opinions, and experiences in QM, and engage with other QM enthusiasts. Offline platforms such as email, phone, or face-to-face meetings can help you deepen and strengthen your relationships with your existing and potential contacts, as well as show your appreciation, interest, and professionalism.

5 Keep in touch and follow up

A fifth effective way to develop and maintain your professional network in QM is to keep in touch and follow up with your contacts. Keeping in touch and following up can help you stay updated, informed, and relevant in QM, as well as show your interest, commitment, and enthusiasm. You can keep in touch and follow up with your contacts by sending them personalized messages, emails, or cards, congratulating them on their achievements or milestones, inviting them to events or opportunities, or asking them for feedback or advice. You can also use tools such as calendars, reminders, or apps to help you manage and organize your communication and follow-up activities.

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?