You're in a manufacturing operations career. How do you know if you're really succeeding?

1 Set SMART goals

One of the first steps to succeed in manufacturing operations is to set SMART goals. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. SMART goals help you define what you want to achieve, how you will measure your progress, and when you will complete your tasks. They also help you align your actions with the strategic objectives of your organization and your department. For example, a SMART goal for a manufacturing operations manager could be: Reduce the scrap rate by 10% in the next six months by implementing lean manufacturing principles and training staff.

2 Seek feedback

Another way to gauge your success in manufacturing operations is to seek feedback from various sources. Feedback can help you identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. It can also help you adjust your goals and strategies based on the changing needs and expectations of your customers, suppliers, and stakeholders. You can seek feedback from your supervisor, peers, subordinates, mentors, customers, and external auditors. You can also use tools such as surveys, performance reviews, audits, and benchmarking to collect and analyze feedback.

3 Track metrics

A third way to measure your success in manufacturing operations is to track metrics that reflect your performance and impact. Metrics are quantifiable indicators that show how well you are achieving your goals and delivering value. They can also help you identify and solve problems, improve efficiency and quality, and reduce waste and costs. Some examples of metrics for manufacturing operations are: throughput, yield, cycle time, downtime, defect rate, customer satisfaction, and profitability. You should choose metrics that are relevant, reliable, and consistent, and monitor them regularly.

4 Learn new skills

A fourth way to enhance your success in manufacturing operations is to learn new skills that can help you grow and adapt in your role. Manufacturing operations is a dynamic and competitive field that requires constant learning and innovation. You should seek opportunities to update your knowledge and skills in areas such as: technology, process improvement, project management, leadership, communication, and teamwork. You can learn new skills by taking courses, attending seminars, reading books and articles, joining professional associations, and networking with other experts.

5 Celebrate achievements

A fifth way to boost your success in manufacturing operations is to celebrate your achievements and recognize your contributions. Celebrating achievements can help you maintain your motivation, confidence, and enthusiasm. It can also help you appreciate your efforts and results, and acknowledge the support and feedback of others. You can celebrate your achievements by: sharing your success stories with your team and organization, rewarding yourself with something you enjoy, updating your resume and portfolio, and seeking new challenges and opportunities.

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?