Expectations vs. Reality in Industrial Automation for Job Seekers

Navigating the job market in industrial automation can be an exciting yet challenging experience. While job seekers often come in with high hopes and specific expectations, the realities of the hiring process and workplace dynamics can sometimes differ significantly. Understanding these gaps is essential to set realistic goals and build a rewarding career.
Expectation: Immediate Job Offers
It’s common for candidates to assume that their skills and experience will lead to swift job offers. With the demand for talent in fields like robotics, process automation, and DevOps, this seems reasonable.
Reality: The hiring process in industrial automation can take time. Employers often seek candidates who not only meet technical requirements but also fit within their organizational culture. This means multiple interviews, assessments, and sometimes delays. Patience and persistence are key.
Expectation: A Perfect Skills Match Guarantees a Role
Many job seekers believe that having the exact qualifications listed in the job description guarantees their success.
Reality: While technical expertise is crucial, employers in industrial automation also pay attention to soft skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork. For example, an engineer’s ability to collaborate across teams can be as valuable as their coding expertise. Demonstrating these qualities can significantly increase a candidate’s chances of being hired.
Expectation: Every Job Is Cutting-Edge and Innovative
The promise of working on state-of-the-art technology often draws candidates to the industrial automation sector.
Reality: While innovation is a hallmark of this industry, not every role involves groundbreaking projects. Some positions may focus on optimizing existing systems or addressing maintenance needs. These roles, though they may be perceived as less glamorous, are just as critical to operational success for the employer. They also have the potential to be stable, well-paying roles that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Bridging the Gap Between Expectations and Reality
To align expectations with reality, job seekers should conduct thorough research on potential employers and roles. Understanding industry trends, connecting with professionals, and participating in relevant networking events can provide invaluable insights. Tailoring applications to highlight both technical skills and interpersonal strengths creates a more balanced and appealing profile. Working with a trusted recruiting firm or staffing company with expertise in the field can also be incredibly helpful in navigating the hiring process and keeping expectations and reality as aligned as possible.
Pursuing a career in industrial automation can be a fulfilling journey, but it requires managing expectations and embracing flexibility. The gap between what job seekers anticipate and what they encounter is often bridged through preparation, adaptability, and a willingness to grow. By recognizing the nuances of the job market, candidates can position themselves for long-term success in this dynamic field. For more information on the expectations and realities of job seekers, feel free to look over the accompanying infographic below.
Author Bio: Joseph Matalone is Executive Vice President for Swoon Staffing, a staffing company that helps individuals find a job in many pillars. Matalone has over 18 years of experience in the industry and focuses on the execution of sales strategies with a concentration on Swoon’s enterprise-level clientele.