What are effective ways to build relationships with laser industry professionals?

Joining professional events is certainly key (I especially like those organized by SPIE), but it is important to use them to bridge the gap that sometimes exists between industry and academia. Often, industry participants do not really engage as much as they could in the technical sessions, whilst academics visit the technical exhibition solely to acquire a missing kit for their experiments. I believe that round table discussions can be a good way to engage and stimulate collaborations across the entire spectrum.

Building relationships with laser industry professionals requires active participation in industry events, such as conferences and trade shows, to facilitate networking opportunities and stay informed about industry developments. Additionally, joining professional associations like the Laser Institute of America (LIA) and engaging in online platforms such as LinkedIn groups and forums can help connect with professionals and access valuable resources.

Interessant sind neben den kleineren Spezialverbänden, die nur Hersteller gleicher Kompetenzen vereinigen (also Konkurrenten in einer Organisation zusammenfassen) sind größere Branchenverbände. Hier können sich ich nur die Unternehmen von Spezialsegmenten in Arbeitskreisen mit Spezialfragen beschäftigen sondern auch mit ihren Kunden vernetzen, die sich bezügl. der Lieferantenstrukturen einer Branche auch für technologisch interessante Anbieter z.B. innovativer Laser-Technik interessieren. Die Veranstaltungen (Fachtagungen, Symposien,Empfänge) dieser Branchenverbände sind oft ideale Auftragsbörsen, bei denen interessierte Nachfrage auf kompetentes Angebot trifft. Ein gutes Beispiel hierfür ist der @Bahnverband e.V. www.Bahnverband.info

Attending industry specific conferences such as Photonics West, IEEE, OSA and getting memberships in organizations/ magazines such as OSA and SPIE, are the best ways to start building these relationships. I remember that I once had to procure some custom laser diodes for a project. The professional interaction during the project evolved into a more personal relationship that introduced me to many more companies and industry experts in the field across the globe.

One time at work: One time at work, I had the opportunity to attend a laser technology conference. During the event, I actively engaged with professionals by attending presentations, participating in panel discussions, and networking during breaks. I made an effort to approach individuals whose work I admired and struck up conversations by asking insightful questions and sharing my own experiences in the field. This led to valuable connections and follow-up discussions, which eventually strengthened my professional network in the laser industry.

In my experience: In my experience, joining professional organizations and societies dedicated to laser technology has been instrumental in building relationships with professionals in the industry. By becoming an active member and attending their events, I had the chance to meet experts, researchers, and industry leaders. I actively engaged in conversations, expressing my interest in their work and discussing current trends and challenges in the field. These interactions helped me establish meaningful connections, gain valuable insights, and even led to collaborative projects.

Submit an abstract to present at SPIE Photonics West, attend first-timers and other networking events, introduce yourself to other presenters, discuss your work with some of the laser companies in the exhibition hall, and you may double your network in a week. Frankly, it is difficult to create meaningful relationships via a webinar. Face to face is the answer. If January is too far away, find a laser conference closer in time or geography and go there...

Don't miss the JENAer Optikkolloquium - online or offline participation in direct discussion with enthusiasts out of photonics and laser industries. The event has a long history in Jena and recently we hold the 500th meeting.

Die Teilnahme an Online-Communities bietet die Möglichkeit, sich kontinuierlich über die Laserbranche zu informieren und sich mit anderen Fachleuten auszutauschen, ohne physisch an Veranstaltungen teilnehmen zu müssen. Dies spart Zeit und reduziert Reisekosten. Außerdem können online-Communities rund um die Uhr genutzt werden und viele Informationen und Erfahrungen. Im Vergleich zu Kongressen und Veranstaltungen sind online-Communities flexibler und machen eine kontinuierliche Interaktion mit anderen Experten möglich. Es ist möglich, sich direkt mit anderen Fachleuten auszutauschen und von deren Erfahrungen zu lernen. Videofunktionen machen die Kontakte durchaus sehr persönlich und KI-Tools können deren Produktivität verbessern.

One thing I've found helpful: One thing I've found helpful in building relationships with professionals in the laser industry is leveraging online networking platforms like LinkedIn. By optimizing my profile, joining relevant groups, and consistently engaging with laser industry content, I was able to connect with professionals from various regions and backgrounds. I found it valuable to personalize my connection requests by mentioning shared interests or common connections. Engaging in conversations and sharing insights through posts and comments further expanded my network and facilitated meaningful relationships with professionals in the laser industry.

- Go into research - You to understand what laser technology. - You have to understand laser technology applications. - Get to know industries that are into laser technology - Attend events and seminars that are for laser technology development. - connect with professionals during this events.

Remember, these are just a few examples to help you get started. Feel free to personalize them based on your own experiences and adapt them to your specific situation. Building relationships in the laser industry is an ongoing process, so be proactive, genuine, and open to new opportunities for networking and collaboration.

Engage in Collaborative Projects: Work with others on research or industry initiatives to establish connections. Attend Informal Networking Events: Take advantage of casual gatherings to build relationships in a relaxed setting. Maintain Existing Relationships: Stay in touch with colleagues, collaborators, and mentors to nurture your professional network over time.

Another valuable approach is to actively engage in collaborative projects or research initiatives within the laser industry. By participating in joint efforts with other professionals, you not only contribute to the advancement of the field but also establish connections and build relationships with your collaborators. Collaborative projects can take various forms, such as joint research studies, product development endeavors, or industry-wide initiatives aimed at addressing common challenges or opportunities. Look for opportunities to partner with companies, research institutions, or other organizations working on projects relevant to your interests and expertise.