Martin McNeill, senior controls engineer, Seagate RMO
Networking is all about finding the networks that work for you. For instance, I cancelled my membership with a leading association because I felt that it didn't always cater for my specific professional needs (I work in a highly specialised branch of engineering). On the other hand, the two main manufacturers of the automation control equipment that I use prove a perfect source of information and contacts. By being on their mailing lists and attending their events, I am able to meet not only with other people exactly in my field, but sometimes with the very people who have designed the equipment that I use day in, day out. Besides networking internally, this is the only networking I do, or find I need to do.

Libby Broadhurst, secretary and chief executive, Institution of Engineering Designers
Since the engineering industry is so diverse, networking - whether online or at events - is crucial for engineers to keep up to date with technologies and find employment opportunities in their specific fields. Engineers tend to be very cliquey and it can be very much a case of who and not what you know, so being part of a network can be priceless. One issue I find in the sector is that engineers don't share information as much as they should, and this is one area where effective networking could make a massive contribution.

Dr Alf Roberts, chief executive, Institution of Electrical Engineers
Since people network in informal and social environments, they are able to get a vital insight into people that they perhaps would not see in a more formal setting or interview situation. Most important though is the value offered by networking, in terms of accessing engineering knowledge, particularly given its rapidly changing nature. I would recommend that all engineers join an association or network of some sort, and always remember that you have to give in order to receive.

David Wilson, editor, e4engineering.com
The engineering industry is not one big industry. It's more like a collection of small industries, each with their own discipline. Employers quickly get to know who the good guys in the industry are through their achievements and, when they eventually meet them at trade shows and other industry events, they talk to them and find out if they will fit in their team. Networking is very much like personal relationships. The more you know up front about someone, the better off you are in the long term. The trick is to get yourself noticed for the projects that you do, particularly if you play a low-key but vital background role.

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