We live in a world dominated by technology—in more ways than we even realize. From going online to pay our bills, watch our shows, and keep in touch with friends and family, to being so attached to our cell phones that we feel anxious when we don’t have them, technology is the backbone of modern life.
I’m not saying that’s a bad thing. I love technology! It’s the basis of my career. I enjoy tinkering with my computer and phone. I like being the “tech guy” for my family and friends (most of the time!). My kitchen is loaded with gadgets that make me a better chef than I really am…
But in this hyper-connected world, are we losing sight of the human connections that truly matter?
Despite my enthusiasm for technology, I’ve learned that nothing replaces real human interaction. Catching up with an old friend, making lifelong family memories, or even bonding over shared experiences in the workplace—these moments shape us. And this applies to professional relationships as well.
As a contract engineer, I work with many different clients and businesses. The technology is critical, and my job revolves around it. However, the part I enjoy the most—and the part that truly enhances the professional relationship—is the human connection.
Anyone with the proper training can program a Logic Controller or HMI and make it do what’s needed. Certainly, skill and experience vary, but at the end of the day, customers have plenty of companies to choose from. So, what makes the difference?
Often, the key differentiator is the relationship we build with our clients. Beyond technical expertise, customers want to know that we genuinely care about their projects. When challenges arise, they want assurance that we’re right there with them, sharing their concerns and working towards a solution. Knowing your client, and letting them know you, makes communication easier, builds trust, and strengthens long-term partnerships.
I also find that fostering personal connections makes my job far more enjoyable. When I’m on-site with a client, I appreciate being able to talk about more than just the project at hand. It creates a comfortable, collaborative environment where we work with each other, rather than just alongside one another.
A few years ago, I spent two weeks in China working with a battery company. They assigned a couple of translators to us, and over time, we got to know them well. One evening, they took us to a local street market and a hidden restaurant we never would have found on our own. By the second week, they were calling me “Uncle Jim”—a sign of respect. One of the translators even mentioned that I reminded her of her father.
The job went well, but what I remember most wasn’t the project itself—it was the relationships we built.
Similarly, in South Korea, it’s common for business relationships to extend into social settings. Each time we worked there, we were invited to dinner with both employees and high-level executives. A significant part of these gatherings involved drinking together—a cultural custom that, while not mandatory, plays a key role in relationship-building. I vividly remember one such dinner where my colleague was actively engaged in conversation, while I- having not yet joined in on the drinks- was somewhat ignored. Once I started drinking with them, the entire dynamic changed almost instantly.
Now, I’m not saying you need to go drinking with your clients! 😊 But this experience showed me just how much cultural nuances influence professional relationships.
On the flip side, a lack of personal connection can create challenges. While working in an industrial section of southern Mexico, I asked our contact whether it was safe for us to walk around town at night. To me, it was an innocent question. There are places in my own state I wouldn’t walk around at night, and I would have gladly explained that to a visitor.
However, my client took offense. He assumed I was another American looking down on Mexico. Looking back, I understand why he felt that way—but I’m convinced that if we had known each other better, he would have understood the genuine intent behind my question.
Misunderstandings are less likely when we take the time to know and respect each other.
As much as technology drives our work and personal lives, the most memorable moments often come from real human interactions. Even in a professional setting, those connections can mean the difference between:
✔ An enjoyable project vs. a job you just have to finish.
✔ A one-time customer vs. a long-term, loyal client.
✔ A transaction vs. a trusted relationship.
Technology may power our world, but it’s the relationships we build that define our experiences. How can you bring more human connection into your work today?
About the Author
Jim is a Graduate of Vermont Technical College and has a 35-year career in Automation Controls and Engineering. He has been a Senior Control Systems Engineer with Hallam-ICS for 3 years. He also enjoys camping, cornhole, and golf to help maintain that human connection.
Read My Hallam Story
About Hallam-ICS
Hallam-ICS is an engineering and automation company that designs MEP systems for facilities and plants, engineers control and automation solutions, and ensures safety and regulatory compliance through arc flash studies, commissioning, and validation. Our offices are located in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Vermont and North Carolina Texas, Florida and our projects take us world-wide.