How to network online in additive manufacturing

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How to online network in additive manufacturing

networking additive manufacturing

The additive manufacturing industry is normally full of networking events, trade shows and meet-ups. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a lot of these events have moved online. While it’s easy to attend an online webinar or talk, how do you make the most out of general online networking and actually interact?

We share some of our advice, to get you on track for online networking in additive manufacturing:

1. Make a good impression

A good impression is as important online as offline.

Make sure you present yourself in the most professional manner; if you are using LinkedIn to network and connect with people, make sure your profile and photo are up to date. 

If you attend virtual networking events, dress professionally even though you are sitting at home. Virtual networking events can be tricky if you wish to make conversation and actively participate. Lagging connections or multiple people attempting to speak at the same time can come across as interruptive and rude. Make it known that you wish to interact and let the moderator steer you into the conversation.

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2. Keep in touch

Success in online networking isn’t about having a large number of connections that you will never speak to. Being selective with who you connect and taking the time to find the right people and strike up a conversation can yield more successful long-term connections.

3. It’s a two-way street

Don’t just turn to your network when YOU need them. Give something back; share interesting news, comments and posts and ask how you can help. You want to be seen as a resource to others. When you then eventually ask for help, be specific and not pushy.

4. Choose the right channel

LinkedIn is the natural choice for a lot of people when it comes to networking. But keep your eyes out for other channels like online communities, LinkedIn Groups, forums and joining virtual conferences and events. Building a digital presence across several platforms may help you build your ‘personal brand’ and increase the chances of people recognising you, digitally.

 

Check out some forums and groups listed here: https://all3dp.com/2/best-3d-printing-forums-boards-and-groups/

5. When you can, take it offline

We will meet again, after Covid-19. There will be conferences, networking events and meetups – eventually. When it is possible, take your networking offline to strengthen your relationships. It may be as simple as chatting over a coffee or taking a break at an event you’re both attending.

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Digital Additive Manufacturing / 3D Printing Events

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Digital Additive Manufacturing / 3D Printing Events

Free digital Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing Events

Springtime usually equals trade-show time.
With the current crisis however, the event calendar is looking much leaner with most trade shows, networking events and seminars being cancelled.

Luckily, we live in a time where technology helps us stay connected and being on the forefront of digitalisation, different parts of the additive manufacturing industry has created an array of digital events; events that will help you learn, grow and stay connected with the AM community

april 27th – april 28th

Digital Additive Manufacturing Marathon

Link3D, Rapid + TCT, Aerodef and 3DNatives are hosting the first Digital AM Marathon, focused on globally connecting the industry. This event comes just a week after the Rapid + TCT show was meant to be held in California. The event will have 40+ presentations from AM leaders like HP, Carbon and SLM Solutions. The event will also include virtual networking sessions to connect the community.

price: free

register and attend here

April 29th – May 20th

Additive Manufacturing webinars from the MTC

The MTC is offering a series of free webinars where you can develop your understanding of AM at different levels. The webinars are split in four different focuses:

  • Powder Management for AM
  • Design for AM
  • Intro to AM
  • Developing a business case to adopt AM

price: free

register and attend here

Continously

Virtual networking events by Women in 3D Printing

Instead of the regular chapter networking events, the Women in 3D Printing organisation is also going digital. They regularly post events and digital meetups on their LinkedIn page. 

price: free

follow updates on events here

May 27th

AM Medical Virtual Summit by ASME

Medical AM has never been more relevant than now. The ASME has created this event with the goal of bridging the gap between medicine, engineering and manufacturing. Join the virtual summit and get insights from thought-leaders and join technical sessions.

price: free

Register and attend here

May 6th onwards

Webinars with GE Additive

Spend the extra time you may have on learning new aspects of the additive manufacturing industry. GE Additive offers free live webinars on several different topics like ‘Understanding Qualification and Industrialization’ and ‘Materials Engineering in Additive: From Powder to Production’

price: free

Register and attend here

alexander daniels global is a recruitment company specialized in additive manufacturing

At Alexander Daniels Global, we have a simple vision:
‘To enable the Industrial Revolution in Additive Manufacturing through talent.’  We support organisations in the additive manufacturing industry to achieve their strategic objectives by partnering with them to identify, attract, engage and recruit high calibre professionals globally. We also work with talented individuals to source opportunities which will add value to their career.

CONTACT US
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Why Engineers Cannot Ignore 3D Printing

Why engineers cannot ignore 3D Printing

Why engineers cannot ignore 3D Printing

Why engineers cannot ignore 3D Printing

Whether you work in R&D, or you are a software, mechanical or electrical engineer, there are some reasons for which you cannot ignore 3D printing. Here are three of the reasons, but you will eventually tell us more!

Rapid Prototyping

One of the first areas that 3D Printing has impacted immensely.  In fact, making a prototype in a short time and at a reduced cost is a doubtless advantage. 3D printed prototypes allow to test shapes, materials, size and functionality of engineering parts. Therefore, 3D printing highlights potential flaws and promptly gives guidelines for eventual correction. Moreover, the flexibility of 3D printing offers the possibility to change shapes in short times and at low costs. For example, Volkswagen declares that thanks to the additive manufacturing technology, compared to more traditional engineering methods, they can test innovative solutions without relying on third parties. This will save them a lot of time and costs. However, 3D printing is now moving beyond just prototyping, finding further applications in all types of industries and being used from low to medium scale production. May 3D printing be ready for mass production soon, too?

See our video discussion on this exact topic here.

Engineering is changing

Industries are changing, and with them the manufacturing methods as we know them today. The shift in manufacturing focus from CNC and Injection Moulding to 3D printing is reflecting on engineering jobs inasmuch as in engineering degrees. A few university courses, such as the innovative  3D Bioprinting Master’s or the graduate program of Additive Manufacturing and Design (AMD), are great examples of how education is changing to shape new professionals that can meet the market demand for the additive manufacturing industry.
Materials & Chemical Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electronic Engineering/Mechatronics, Civil Engineering, 3D Modelling/Industrial Design are all disciplines where 3D printing is leaving its evident footprints.

Competitive Advantage

If you are an engineer and you know about 3D printing, then you are likely to up-skill more easily and improve your employability more than your fellows who ignore the upcoming technology. Whether you work with CAD, 3D printers or you just have a genuine interest in additive manufacturing, this will provide you with a competitive advantage in the recruitment process and when it comes to negotiating your salary. In such an emerging industry, the more knowledgeable you are, the harder it is for employers to let you go.

 

We are Alexander Daniels Global, and we are experts in recruitment for the additive manufacturing / 3D printing industry.

If you want a career move into 3D Printing, check out our Career Portal for the hottest jobs in the industry.

Are you interested in reading more Career Advice? Check them out here!

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3 reasons why you might consider a career in 3D printing

3 reasons to consider a career in 3D Printing Additive Manufacturing

3 reasons why you might consider a career in 3d printing

3 reasons to consider a career in 3D Printing Additive Manufacturing

You recently became interested in 3D printing. You have read about it and got fascinated by its innovative technology, countless applications and materials. From food to human parts, 3D printing is becoming more  applied to our daily lives and in production. You want to know more about it, and you are considering a fresh start in additive manufacturing or a change of career.

Does this apply to you? We have asked Alexander Daniels Global recruiters to come up with three reasons why you might want to consider a career in 3D printing.

1. 3D printing is the future

Odds are that 3D printing, however slower and sometimes less precise than CNC, moulding and other manufacturing methods at the present, will gain an increasingly bigger share of the manufacturing industry as we know it today. Mainly still used for prototyping, the AM industry is full of potential and we can only guess what the next appliance for 3D printing is going to be. Surely, in any industry where every part is complex and custom, the room for improvement for 3D printing is still huge. With new materials continuously being discovered, developed and applied almost on a daily basis, we like to say that imagination is the only limit.

Whether we are talking about consumer goods, high tech or healthcare; 3D printing can find its applications and we believe that we are only seeing the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the potential of the 3D Printing industry.

2. Demand is higher than the supply

In an industry where the demand for jobs is higher than the supply of professionals to fill these jobs, it is no wonder why most of the AM professionals are employed and receive high salaries. In an emerging industry, like Additive Manufacturing, it happens that the technology is growing at a faster rate than professionals are upskilling to cover specific 3D printing roles. The request for 3D printing jobs is constantly increasing and companies often struggle to find their best fit. Therefore, you are in a position of competitive advantage for a better negotiation than you would in other industries, which may help you to land your dream job.

3. Transferable skills

Do not worry if you do not have the adequate skills to go into 3D printing right now. The skills that you have developed throughout your career are likely to be transferable! Whether you have worked in R&D, Marketing, Sales, Application/Consulting, Software or Service before, a change of career path should not worry you. In fact, the skills that you have mastered throughout these years might come handy when approaching the Additive Manufacturing industry. The same applies if you have experience with other methods of manufacturing whether it is Injection Moulding or Computer numerical control machining (CNC machining). AM professionals are requested in numerous disciplines.

Want a career in 3D Printing / additive manufacturing?

Check out our Career Portal for the hottest jobs in the industry.
Are you interested in reading more Career Advice? Check them out here!

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How to kick start your job hunt in the 3D printing industry

how to kick-start your job search in the 3d printing industry

Are you ready to jump into a new job opportunity? If the answer is yes, you have come to the right place. The following is our top tips on how to kick- start your job search in the 3D printing industry.

Kick-start your job hunt in 3D printing additive manufacturing

1. Optimize your LinkedIn profile

To allow companies (and recruiters) to find you via LinkedIn, and to provide them a quick but thorough overview of your professional profile, make sure that your LinkedIn profile is up to date with your previous jobs, education, skills, etc.

  • Keywords: Use industry keywords and specific discipline keywords in your headline, your summary and your experience section. The LinkedIn search engine looks for keywords in your profile when deciding what profiles to include for a particular search query.

  • Headline: Grab attention with a headline that precisely defines your skill set. Make It unique, while containing words that express exactly what you can provide an employer.

  • Summary: use your creativity here. Your summary should draw employers in and make them want to know more about you. It should discuss your experience and passions as they relate to your career goals.

Read further about optimizing your CV here.

2. Apply early and often

Hiring managers or HR personnel get hundreds of applications for each job. It is very unlikely that they will read through each and every one of them, so it is crucial that you apply to a job as early as possible, as postponing it by a week, could result in your application not even being read.

It is a good idea to have two tracks in your job search: one where you apply to existing jobs, and one where you network and contact employers to find out about jobs before they have been posted.

3. Network, network, network

The 3D printing industry is a relatively close-knit industry where people tend to communicate and network often. Use this to your advantage by contacting employers you are interested in.

Make sure you make yourself appear relevant and interesting by writing a brief elevator pitch to send to them, instead of just writing ‘hello, I’m looking for a job’.

Even if that person cannot help you, they may refer you to other acquaintances, and before you know it, your job search has set off!

4. REFERENCES

Having your references ready up front could put you weeks ahead of other candidates who still have to collect theirs.

In the 3D Printing industry, having references to support your job application is crucial for the employer to ensure that your application and experience is honest. In most job processes, there will come a time, when the hiring manager will ask for your employer references. Having good references prepared up front, with approval from your referrer, saves a lot of time in the recruitment process, and the hiring managers don’t have to wait weeks before they can make a final decision on hiring you.

Typically, employers ask for about two to three references. Those references should be able to vouch for your skills, abilities, and qualifications as they relate to the jobs you apply for.

You can include the references, with name, company, position and contact details on your resume, or you can get a written recommendation on your LinkedIn profile.

 

Are you interested in reading more Career Advice to help kick-start your job search? Check them out here!

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5 reasons why job interviews are like first dates

5 Reasons Why Job interviews are like first dates

5 reasons why job interviews are like first dates

Both a first date and a job interview are nerve-racking for most people. These two events undoubtedly have a lot of things in common; from first impressions to finding the right partner.

We have put together a little piece comparing the two.

1. First impressionas are crucial

Like a first interview, a first date is pivotal in determining the direction and possibility of a potential relationship. Therefore, the first impressions are crucial.

2. A wardrobe crisis is inevitable

Related to the point above, dressing appropriately is key in both a first date and in an interview. Even if that interview is through Skype.

Research shows that your clothes play a vital role in any first impression. Despite a good first impression, dressing appropriately will make you feel and appear more confident. 

3. You’ve probably googled one another

If you go on a date with someone you have never met, you have most likely googled them or gone to their social media profile. Either to check them out and maybe try to figure out subjects you could talk about.

The same goes for job interviews and finding out who you are about to meet. Knowing your interviewer will allow you to target your conversation and target your sales pitch better. Moreover, you will feel much better knowing who you’re about to meet.

4. It’s a two-way conversation

How awesome would it be to be on a first date, and you just kept asking questions, and the other answered, all the while just talking about themselves? Not exactly the best way to start out a new relationship.

Engaging the other party shows your interest in them, and it is a good chance for you to figure out whether you are a good match for each other.

Asking questions for the hiring manager at the end of an interview is important to figure out if you are a fit for the company. You could for example ask “Why did you choose to work here and why do you enjoy it?”. This way you show interest, you make the conversation more free-flowing and it emphasizes to the hiring manager that this is also a decision for you, and not just for them.

When you date someone, you move forward if you feel a connection. Same goes for a job interview.

5. You’ll likely spend the coming time waiting for a call

After the interview / date is done, you are likely to sit by and wait for a call. But it may be better to be proactive (without being pushy).

After a date, you may say “I had a great time, and I think we have a lot in common”. The same approach for an interview, may go like this: “After our conversation, I feel that the qualities and skills you are looking for align with my background and motivations. Would you agree?”.

We have found, that proactive candidates have a better chance of keeping the hiring managers engaged, so we have made a guide on how to follow up after an interview: 3 must do’s after the job interview 

Want more career advice?

At Alexander Daniels Global, we are specialized in recruitment for the additive manufacturing industry. We want you to succeed so we have created a bunch of free career advice. Check it out!

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Five Good Reasons to Job Hunt in December

5 good reasons to job hunt in december

5 reasons to job hunt in December

Too many job seekers pull the break on their job searches this time of year, and that’s a shame! Here is why you should continue your job hunt in December

1. job hunting in december says a lot about you

Every employer wants to hire diligent and hard-working employees. The fact that you continue your job search undeterred by the holidays sends an important message about your work ethic: when you have a job to do, regardless of the time of year, you are going to do it! This sets you apart of the rest.

2. less competition

With so many of your potential ‘job rivals’ putting a break to their job hunting in December, there will be fewer people competing for openings. This boosts the odds that your application will get noticed. Waiting till January may result in your application getting lost in the pile of others.

Perfect your CV for the additive manufacturing industry 

3. take advantage of the joy in the air

Most people tend to be in better moods (except maybe the Grinch) in the holiday season. Recruiters and hiring managers are also likely to travel less and have more free time on their hands. So this works out perfectly for you. Catching a recruiter or hiring manager in a good mood is more likely to make them shortlist you.

4. the hiring market isn’t as slow as you think

December is a time when many employers are preparing the new hires for the coming year and are setting aside hiring dollars for new positions. As the budgets get finalized, your application could be on top of the pile of the first people to be hired next year.

5. networking comes naturally

The holiday season offers great opportunities for networking as it comes as a natural part of the many social gatherings throughout the month. Take advantage of this. Make it a goal to attend at least three networking events during the holiday season to build your network.

So there you have it! The reasons you should ramp up your job hunt in December.

Want more career advice?

At Alexander Daniels Global, we are specialized in recruitment for the additive manufacturing industry. We want you to succeed so we have created a bunch of free career advice. Check them out!

More career advice
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3 Interview tactics we always forget

3 interview tactics we always forget

3 interview tactics we always forget

You know the ‘usual suspects’ of interview tactics; bring a resume, make eye-contact and wear clothes that don’t distract.

Although that is good advice, there is much more to landing a job today.

For your next interview, consider these tactics to go the extra mile in a contest typically won by inches.

1. Have something to say about the industry

Because the Additive Manufacturing industry is still very young, it often happens that candidates do not have 3D Printing / additive manufacturing experience but has experience in similar industries with synergies to AM. If that is your case, remember to study the industry, read news reports and blogs, in advance of your interview, and be ready to work important issues into the conversation.

2. Know the company challenges

Dig into the company’s recent successes and failures and in the client and customer base to show that you are aware of their most vital challenges. This will reveal your dedication and prompt the interviewer to envision you in the role

3. Talk about the competition

A strong understanding of what keeps your boss-to-be awake at night is one way to put any doubts about your candidacy to bed.

Want more career advice?

At Alexander Daniels Global, we are specialized in recruitment for the additive manufacturing industry. We want you to succeed so we have created a bunch of free career advice. Check it out!

More career advice
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Specialized Sales Jobs are booming. Here’s how to take advantage

Specialized additive manufacturing jobs are booming. How to take advantage

Sales Job additive manufacturing

Sales positions within additive manufacturing are booming, with major companies from all over the world competing to push their products to market. We are seeing a lot of openings, but not enough candidates to fill those roles.

We have asked our recruiters how experienced candidates can take full advantage of this highly favorable hiring environment for sales professionals.

1. Highlight specialization

Hiring companies in the additive manufacturing / 3D printing industry are increasingly focusing on specialized sales professionals. Specifically, AM companies are looking for technical sales professionals and software sales professionals.

To exploit this, make sure that your LinkedIn profile and/or your resume clearly reflects your sector specific sales experience and what type of products/services you have experience selling. This approach makes it easier for employers to identify your specialization and match you with a job opportunity.

2. Adopt the right attitude

AM employers are looking for people with a hunter mentality; people that are competitive with themselves, ambitious and ethical. They want sales people who understand that getting a sale should be done by conveying the message and value of the product, and not by discounting the product. Employers want a lion living in the safari and not in the zoo; someone who has to work hard to be successful and not rely on the zoo keeper for every meal.

3. Build Relationships

Even though the current environment for Specialized Sales hiring is favourable for qualified candidates, don’t go through it alone. You may be missing out on opportunities that can only come through strong professional connections.

One way of building such a network and opening a new world of job possibilities is to engage with a recruiter. You will benefit from the relationships they have with employers AND they are instrumental to promoting your value in the best possible way to employers.

Want more career advice?

At Alexander Daniels Global, we are specialized in recruitment for the additive manufacturing industry. We want you to succeed so we have created a bunch of free career advice. Check it out!

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Recruiter Secrets to Finding the Right Job-fit for YOU

Recruiter secrets to finding the right job for you

Recruiter secrets to finding the right job-fit for you

Do you ever wonder if you’re on the right career path? How can you tell if your job makes the most of your talents?

Consulting with a recruiter is a good way of finding out!

We asked our recruiters how they help AM professionals find the right fit. Asking yourself these few questions will help you choose the right job for you.

1. How do I want to feel at work?

“As recruiters we often look for, and work with, the intangible aspects of a candidate to truly figure out their motivations, and to see what opportunities are the best fit for them” says Alexander Daniels Global recruiter. “Even if you are not sure what you want to do, knowing how you want to feel at work is almost as important.

If you like to just put your head down, focus and work, then a job with some team leading responsibilities may not be right for you. On the flip-side, if you love talking to people and teaching others, maybe a team leading position may be rewarding for you – even if job duty-wise the two jobs are very similar.

2. What management style do I prefer?

Although it’s still a minor amount, an increasing amount of companies in the additive manufacturing industry are getting more location-independent. This means that they are flexible in terms of where their employees work. But this also comes with some complications. More particularly management style and independency.

If you are a highly independent person that enjoys having a big impact on the company without being told exactly what needs to be done, maybe a position in sales, as for example a Business Developer or Key Account Manager, may be the right fit for you.

3. Are there opportunities to learn new skills?

No matter what job or industry you’re in, you should always be learning. It can be a brand-new skills or strengthening an old one. Learning is a sign that there’s still more to gain in your role. Loosing your desire to grow or learn may very well be a sign that you need to make a job change.

4. If I had a free Saturday that had to be spent “working” on something, I’d choose __ , because __

This little exercise helps you realize what parts of your job you are truly passionate about. And you should aim to find a job where this is part of the job description.

“Employees are happiest in jobs that provide them with feelings of accomplishment and joy. And just because you are good at a job, doesn’t mean that that’s what you should be doing” says Alexander Daniels Global recruiter.

Want more career advice?

At Alexander Daniels Global, we are specialized in recruitment for the additive manufacturing industry. We want you to succeed so we have created a bunch of free career advice. Check it out!

More career advice
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