Don’t Walk – Run From A Job If You See These Red Flags

Join Isaiah as he explores a few telltale signs that your new industry job is a disaster waiting to happen

In this week’s episode…

• First, Isaiah reminds PhDs that industry work environments are different than academic ones, and that some culture shock is normal
• Next, he reassures PhDs that it’s okay to walk away from a bad fit
• Finally, Isaiah identifies three can’t-ignore signs that your new industry job is not right for you

PhDs, Don’t Ignore A Gut Feeling If Your New Job Feels Like A Bad Fit

Sometimes – especially if you’ve been unemployed for a while – you might feel compelled to accept a job offer that raises a lot of red flags. 

You wouldn’t be alone if you feel like you’re better off accepting a job offer that feels a little off and just waiting it out. 

A recent study revealed that nearly two-thirds of job seekers report taking a job – all despite knowing that it wasn’t a good fit. 

So now, as you settle into your new role, does it feel more and more like you’re just settling, period? 

Academic PhDs Transitioning To Their First Industry Job Should Prepare To Work With Different Personality Types

First, do a pulse check. 

Is it possible that you need to grow up a little? Maybe learn to coexist with personality types that you’re not accustomed to? 

Be honest with yourself. If you don’t understand your role in the broken dynamic, you’ll be doomed to repeat it. 

If you’ve spent time in the hire-hunt-quit-hire cycle, you know these are early warning signs that your current new position is a bad fit. 

One thing to be on the lookout for is a lack of clear communication or disorganization within the company. That’s the kind of thing you can feel on day one. 

If a new employer isn’t communicating effectively, this can quickly lead to confusion and misunderstandings. 

Left unchecked, this can make it difficult to get work done and advance in the company.

If You Left Academia To Find A More Supportive Environment, Don’t Settle For Toxicity In Industry

A toxic work environment is also something to be very wary of. 

If you notice that your new coworkers or leaders are slandering ex-employees, their competition or one another, what’s to stop them from doing the same to you? 

You left that negativity behind in academia – don’t feel like you have to accept it in a new industry. 

This environment can make it difficult to focus on your work. It will almost certainly be a constant source of stress and anxiety. 

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** For the full podcast, check out the audio player above.

Ready to start your transition into industry? Apply to book a free Transition Call with our founder, Isaiah Hankel, PhD or one of our Transition Specialists here.