Your Network is Your Net Worth: Building Connections in Automation
In the automation industry, who you know matters as much as what you know. A strong professional network opens doors to opportunities, knowledge, and career growth.
Why Networking Matters
Opportunities Come Through People
Research shows that:
- 70-80% of jobs are filled through networking
- Referrals get hired 5x more often
- Word-of-mouth recommendations carry weight
In a specialized field like automation, this is even more true.
Knowledge Sharing
The best contractors learn from each other:
- Troubleshooting tips
- New technology insights
- Industry trends
- Project war stories
Support System
Contracting can be isolating. Your network provides:
- Career advice
- Emotional support
- Problem-solving help
- Accountability
How FEED Helps You Network
Connect with 4,000+ Professionals
FEED is not just a job board. It is a community of:
- PLC programmers
- Robotics engineers
- Controls technicians
- HMI/SCADA specialists
- Systems integrators
See Who Else is Out There
Browse contractor profiles to:
- Find peers in your specialty
- Discover experienced mentors
- Identify collaboration opportunities
- Learn from others profiles
Build Your Reputation
Your FEED profile showcases:
- Skills and certifications
- Work history
- Project portfolio
- Reviews and recommendations
Networking Strategies
1. Optimize Your Profile
Your profile is often the first impression. Include:
- Professional photo
- Compelling summary
- Detailed skill list
- Project highlights
- Contact preferences
2. Engage with the Community
- Comment on industry posts
- Share your knowledge
- Answer questions
- Celebrate others wins
3. Attend Industry Events
- Trade shows (Automate, Rockwell Automation Fair)
- Local user groups
- Training sessions
- Webinars
4. Give Before You Ask
The best networkers:
- Offer help first
- Share opportunities
- Make introductions
- Provide value
5. Follow Up Consistently
After meeting someone:
- Connect on FEED
- Send a brief message
- Share relevant content
- Stay in touch quarterly
The Referral Advantage
When you build strong relationships:
As a Contractor
- Colleagues refer you to clients
- Former clients call you back
- Recruiters seek you out
- Word spreads about your expertise
As a Company
- Trusted contractors recommend peers
- Quality candidates apply proactively
- Reputation attracts talent
- Hiring becomes easier
Long-Term Career Growth
Your network compounds over time:
Year 1: Building connections
Year 3: Getting referrals
Year 5: Being sought after
Year 10+: Industry recognition
Start Building Today
Every connection starts with one step:
- Create your FEED profile - Make yourself discoverable
- Browse other contractors - See who is in your field
- Engage authentically - Quality over quantity
- Stay consistent - Networking is a habit, not an event
Your next opportunity is likely one connection away. Join FEED and start building your network today.
