PhD Transition Report Podcast

Join Isaiah as he reviews four habits that PhDs can apply to their job search that will guarantee callbacks and interviews Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah takes a look at principle-centered problem-solving and explains the place it has in your job search habits Next, he shares four different strategies that PhDs can use to make their job search feel more manageable Finally, Isaiah reminds PhDs that sticking to their new routine is just as important as starting it From This Week’s Show… Good Habits Are What Lands PhDs A Job In Industry – Not Short Bursts Of Energy Ever hear of the book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”? In case you haven’t, it lays out a principle-centered approach for solving personal and professional problems. It was a bestseller when it was first published in 1990, and to this day, continues to be a go-to guide for business professionals. That’s because principle-centered approaches work. Not only for businesses but also for individuals, such as yourself. And when it comes to your industry career, an effective job search is the place to start. If you’re struggling in your industry job search – not getting callbacks,…

Join Isaiah as he explains what career-oriented PhDs do so well and the role that inaction plays in sabotaging your job search Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah asks PhDs to consider some of their attitudes and habits – and how those affect their job search Next, he examines four ways that career-oriented PhDs can create career-directed habits Finally, Isaiah reminds PhDs that intention and commitment are what’s going to get you hired, not catering to your fear or indulging in overwhelm From This Week’s Show… Career-Oriented PhDs Are Successful Because They’ve Developed Superior Habits To Reach Their Goals What adjectives come to mind when you hear the term career-oriented?  Driven? Determined? Ambitious? Even cut-throat?  Sure, these can be attributes of a career-oriented person.  But how about intentional, focused, and dedicated?  A career-oriented person is someone who has a definitive goal for their career, and they have a plan for achieving that goal.  Being career-oriented doesn’t just mean you’re willing to do whatever it takes to make it to the top.  It doesn’t mean you are aggressive or domineering.  It means that you work with intention.  Career-oriented PhDs are those that set out to advance their…

Join Isaiah as he breaks down three characteristics PhDs should consider about the companies they’re targeting in their job search. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah takes a look at the importance of company fit in the job search and hiring process Next, he shares three elements of a company that impact what it’s like to work there – and what that means for job seekers like you Finally, Isaiah closes by explaining why it’s so important to consider your compatibility with the companies you’re targeting in your job search From This Week’s Show… Company Fit Is An Important Part Of The Job Search Process – One That’s Frequently Overlooked If you’re searching for your first industry job, chances are, you’re focused on crafting the perfect resume, nailing your interviews, and getting paid. But have you stopped to consider company fit? Many PhDs overlook this very important factor. That’s because many PhDs wait too long to start their job search and end up searching for one in desperation mode as a result. The problem is that, when you’re desperate, it’s hard to assess critical factors in your job search like company fit, because you’re in an…

Join Isaiah as he shares four rejection coping mechanisms that will keep your PhD job search moving forward – despite disappointment. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah addresses the frustration of rejection and explains why it can be particularly hard for PhDs Next, he breaks down the four coping mechanisms that successful PhDs use to mitigate the fallout of a missed opportunity Finally, Isaiah closes by explaining that video interview etiquette can outweigh a candidate’s qualifications From This Week’s Show… Every PhD Deals With Rejection In Their Job Search Searching for a job is stressful. There’s no way around it. It’s time-consuming, it’s grueling, and it often comes with rejection. Failure is woven into the fabric of even the best-executed job search. And while failure is hard on anyone, it’s particularly demoralizing to PhDs. Sure, you’ve spent years doing nothing more than mastering the art of failure –failed research methods, dead-end projects, rejected papers. But for many PhDs, being rejected for a job feels different. It feels way more personal. For many, their self-worth lies solely in the hands of the success (or failure) of an employer saying “yes” to them. If you feel this on…

Join Isaiah as he explores 3 clinical research positions for PhDs that don’t require any clinical experience or previous industry experience Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah explains why clinical careers are booming – and why that growth is expected to continue Next, he looks at 3 clinical careers that don’t require any previous industry or a clinical setting Finally, Isaiah explains why these clinical pathways are a great entry point for a high-paying and rewarding career trajectory From This Week’s Show… PhDs Are In High Demand For Clinical Careers Clinical research is booming, and it doesn’t look like it’s going to stop growing anytime soon. Much of this is thanks to recent scientific advancements and changes in the FDA approval process.  We now have more drugs than ever entering the market. For PhDs wanting a career in clinical research, this is really good news. Why? With increased drug production comes more clinical trials, which means more jobs.  As clinical trials become more complex, there will be even more demand for highly educated and highly trained individuals such as yourself.  The key is, contrary to popular belief in the halls of academia, you do not need…

Join Isaiah as he discusses the challenges of pre-recorded video interviews and explains how you can ace your next one Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah introduces PhDs to pre-recorded interviews, an emerging trend in recruiting process Next, he covers what kind of questions you can expect to be asked in a pre-recorded interview Finally, Isaiah breaks down some of the major hurdles PhDs face when it comes to making a good impression on a pre-recorded interview From This Week’s Show… PhDs Are Seeing An Uptick In The Number Of Pre-Recorded Video Interviews Employers Are Asking For If you haven’t already encountered a pre-recorded video interview in your industry job search, just wait – you will.  Pre-recorded video interviews are gaining in popularity, so chances are, you’re going to have to do one.  So, start preparing now.  If you go into this kind of video interview unprepared, even though it’s pre-recorded, it’s going to be painfully obvious.  There Are Things You Need To Be Aware Of Before Your Next Pre-Recorded Video Interview The most important thing to realize is that you can’t just stop and start over if you mess up.  You only get one chance…

Join Isaiah as he covers what it takes to execute a successful video interview and shares tips for impressing potential employers virtually Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah takes a look at the growing prevalence of video interviews in the post-pandemic job market Next, he gives 3 tips to avoid the biggest mistakes PhDs make during their virtual interview Finally, Isaiah closes by explaining that video interview etiquette can outweigh a candidate’s qualifications From This Week’s Show… Many PhDs Go Into Their Video Interview Completely Unprepared The last few years have forced companies to change how they conduct interviews.  Video interviews are now standard. In fact, a recent report showed that 60% of HR managers report having used or are currently using video interviews in their hiring process.  That’s because they’re faster, more efficient, and can often be more telling than a paper resume or audio-only phone call.  From a company’s standpoint, video interviews strike the perfect balance between utility and efficiency.  The problem is, for many PhDs, video interviews are more nerve-wracking than interviewing in person.  It’s weird seeing your own gestures and expressions while you talk; its uncomfortable hearing your own voice; it’s challenging…

Join Isaiah as he breaks down negotiation tactics that PhDs can use to get the salary they deserve. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah explains that PhDs need to advocate for the salary they’ve earned Next, he shares 3 interview tactics from expert FBI negotiator and author Chris Voss Finally, Isaiah gives several examples that PhDs can use in their next salary negotiation From This Week’s Show… As A PhD, You’re Not Going To Inherently Get Paid What They’re Worth. You Need To Advocate For Yourself Studies show that over 50% of the general public take the first salary they’re offered.  PhDs are no exception.  In fact, PhDs are some of the least likely people to negotiate their starting salary.  That’s because, as a PhD, you’re never taught to express your value and you’re used to taking whatever you can get from academia.  So today, I’m here to remind you: As a PhD, you have an incredible set of skills, and you should be compensated appropriately.  Failing to understand your worth not only hurts your starting salary, but it can also damage your earning potential for years to come.  So, how does even the most reluctant…

Join Isaiah as he explains how to get to know your professional brand as a PhD – and how to sell it to employers. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah takes a look at professional brands and explains why they can be hard for PhDs to embrace Next, he shines a light on things you’re doing right now that other people already recognize as your professional brand Finally, Isaiah shares ways to mold your brand into something that reflects both your strengths and your goals From This Week’s Show… A Professional Brand Helps You Differentiate Yourself From Other Candidates Every day, we’re inundated with brands.  Social media shows us targeted ads for brand-name clothing, electronics, appliances, study materials – the list is endless. Whether you like it or not, brand name ads are here to stay – because they work.  The good news is that you can use these same tactics to sell your own professional brand to employers.  Many PhDs hate the idea of selling themselves.  They think selling themselves – their brand – means they’re selling out.  Academia teaches you that thinking outside of the collective “we” to focus on the “I” – what…

Join Isaiah as he explores a common networking issue PhDs face, and then breaks down how to troubleshoot it. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah takes a look at why networking slumps are common among PhDs Next, he explains why 99 out of 100 networking problems can be traced back to having this kind of connection Finally, Isaiah shares the best way to untangle your networking web and start seeing results from your professional network From This Week’s Show… Networking Can Feel Like A Full-Time Job, And Having Nothing To Show For Your Efforts Can Be Hard Does the time and energy you spend on networking seem pointless?  You’re connecting with people in your field, even turning your basic connections into meaningful professional relationships, but still, there you sit – jobless and hopeless?  If so, you’re in a networking slump.  Networking slumps are common among PhDs.  To figure out why your network isn’t paying off, start with a basic diagnostic.  Take a high-level look at your network structure. What shape do you see? Do you see an array of nodes closely linked by a redundant web of interconnecting lines – one that resembles a ball of…

Join Isaiah as he breaks down economic concepts PhDs need to be familiar with in industry and how to communicate this knowledge to employers. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah explains why an understanding of finance and economic principles is important in industry – and why many PhDs don’t have a strong grasp on these principles Next, he breaks down four economic concepts that industry employers expect applicants to have knowledge of Finally, Isaiah discusses ways that you can translate your academic experience with budgets and managing money into industry experience From This Week’s Show… As A PhD, You’re At A Disadvantage In Your Industry Job Search If You Can’t Demonstrate That You Understand Economic Principles Studies show that most people are never taught to manage money. They have no formal training on how to save or budget – in school or otherwise.  And sadly, for many, this knowledge gap persists into adulthood.  But understanding economics is invaluable when it comes to succeeding in industry.  You need to understand the role that economics play in the day-to-day of a company to get hired into industry.  Whether you’re applying to an R&D role, MSL role, Technical Sales…

Join Isaiah as he explains the STAR Method and how you can learn to use it to impress employers during an interview. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah breaks down why knowing how to answer questions, not memorizing specific answers or situations, is the key to impressing employers during an interview Next, he discusses the specifics of the STAR Method, a technique designed to ace behavioral interview questions Finally, Isaiah shares a few concrete examples that highlight the methodology in action From This Week’s Show… The STAR Methodology Can Guide You Through The Answer To Tough Interview Questions As a PhD, you have a diverse portfolio of skills and experience – things that look great on a resume. The question is, are you able to speak to these skills and experiences – out loud, and in an engaging way? Like anything, the key to interviewing well is to understand the right methodology behind it. When it comes to the right methodology for interviewing, use the STAR method. It stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Let’s start with S – situation. This is where you provide context. Say you’re asked, “What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced,…

Join Isaiah as takes a look at what makes for great cover letters and explains the questions they should answer about you as a candidate. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah shares some facts about cover letters and the big impact this single page can make on your job search Next, he takes a look at some of the questions your cover letter should answer for employers Finally, Isaiah talks about what it takes to write a compelling cover letter that makes hiring managers take notice From This Week’s Show… “Optional” Isn’t An Option When It Comes To Cover Letters You may think cover letters are a relic of the past, but a recent report from ResumeLab tells a different story. A staggering 83% of hiring managers said they consider cover letters to be an important part of their hiring process. Many hiring managers agreed that a cover letter can land you an interview even when your resume, on its own, doesn’t make the cut. What about when a job posting doesn’t require a cover letter, you might be asking yourself. Should you send one anyway? According to the same survey, 77% of recruiters say they…

Join Isaiah as he explores the three steps job seekers will work through with their recruiters in order to land the perfect role Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah explores why recruiters can be so beneficial to your job search, plus best practices for making the most of your relationship with them Next, he covers the 3 steps that recruiters walk job seekers through to find and interview for the perfect role Finally, Isaiah explains what it takes to negotiate a killer salary with your new employers and how a recruiter can help From This Week’s Show… Recruiters Don’t Get Paid Unless You Get Hired, So They’re Motivated To Help Find a Great Role For You There are three phases to negotiating with professional recruiters. The first phase is the initial contact. Typically, the first interaction between you and a recruiter will be a 20- to 30-minute conversation where the recruiter describes the position. During this interaction, they’ll gauge your interest. They’ll explain the role, the ballpark salary, and the company. If you’re not interested in the position, be polite and explain what you are looking for. Offer to help your recruiter find a great candidate…

Join Isaiah as he shares the quickest ways to make a recruiter dread seeing your name pop up in their inbox. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah shares some statistics that demonstrate why a recruiter is such a valuable tool in your job search Next, he explores 5 things job seekers unknowingly do that can put them at odds with their recruiter Finally, Isaiah concludes by explaining that a good relationship with a recruiter can unlock doors in your job search – as long as you treat their time like a precious resource From This Week’s Show… There Are 5 Common Breaches Of Etiquette You Want To Avoid If You’re Working With A Recruiter The first mistake PhDs make is they try to make small talk. No recruiter has time for that. They have goals to meet – their job is to connect job seekers with job openings. So, right off the bat, start by adding value. And value in this circumstance is more direct. All they care about is whether you’re a good candidate for the positions they’re trying to fill. So, in your first message – heck, in your first sentence – tell them…

Join Isaiah as he shares some emerging trends in life science PhDs can use to demonstrate their industry knowledge to employers Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah shares that one of the best ways to show employers in life science that you’re engaged in your industry is to be able to discuss emerging trends Next, he provides some insight into several exciting developments that life science PhDs should be aware of Finally, Isaiah reminds life science PhDs that part of preparing for a job interview is to stay up-to-date on industry news and advancements From This Week’s Show… Showing Interest In And Being Able To Discuss Industry Trends Demonstrates Value To Employers One of the best ways to impress industry employers is to show them that you understand what is trending in their industry. Today, I want to focus on the life science industry. Life Science PhDs Have So Many Exciting Industry Developments To Explore The first trend we see in industry is a growing interest in cellular agriculture. In previous years, gene-editing tools like CRISPR and cellular engineering technologies were in the spotlight. Now the focus has turned towards cellular agriculture, or Cell-Ag for short.…

Join Isaiah as he breaks down what to expect from a new industry career – from onboarding to your first 6 months. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah explains that onboarding, for many PhDs, is a mystery Next, he shares 5 things that every PhD should keep in mind when they begin the onboarding process Finally, Isaiah explains how knowing what to expect about your early days with a company can set you up for success down the road From This Week’s Show… Onboarding Takes New Employees Anywhere From 3 To 6 Months PhDs entering industry for the first time are often shocked by the onboarding process. Some think onboarding involves months of basic administrative tasks. Others think they can hit the ground running. Neither of these preconceptions is accurate. What is accurate is that successful onboarding is the key to a successful and long-lasting career. An employee that starts a new job with misguided expectations will likely feel disappointed and alienated; they also risk not meeting the expectations of their employer. Don’t let this be you. Make sure when you enter industry you’re equipped with the correct mindset and the right set of expectations. Let’s…

Join Isaiah as he explores the benefits of a functional resume for PhDs – plus a few tips to make yours stand out to employers. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah takes a look at the functional resume format and explains why it’s superior for PhDs with limited professional experience Next, he directs attention to 3 strategies that a functional resume needs to apply to be successful Finally, Isaiah reviews the architecture of a finished functional resume from top to bottom From This Week’s Show… A Functional Resume Highlights The Quality Of Your Experience – Not The Quantity Many PhDs mistake resumes for CVs – they chronologically list their work experience, achievements, and skills, being sure not to leave out a single detail. But a chronological resume that’s simultaneously irrelevant and cramped isn’t going to land you an industry job. You have to change how you present your experience. This is where the functional resume comes in. Word Cloud Tools Help You Frame The Skills You Have In Words That Employers Are Looking For A functional resume can take your one sad section of Graduate Research Assistant or Postdoctoral Fellow experience and turn it into 3…

Join Isaiah as he shares resume facts and figures that PhDs transitioning into industry need to know in order to stand out in their job search. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah shares some surprising facts about resumes that PhDs transitioning into industry should know Next, he provides some helpful guidelines to keep in mind when PhDs craft their resume Finally, Isaiah offers tips on how to make PhD candidates stand out with a few easy-to-implement resume hacks From This Week’s Show… PhDs Are Often Surprised That Their Degree Is Not Enough While simply submitting a resume may have landed you a summer job at a local coffee shop, getting a PhD-level industry job requires much more. An industry job search at your level can be complex, but there are some simple frameworks that will help you allocate your time and resources effectively. The 80-20-10 Principle Is One Of The More Important Resume Facts To Remember Let’s start with the 80-20-10 principle. The number 80 represents the 80% of industry jobs that are never advertised online. Most positions at small- to medium-sized companies are never advertised at all. Of the jobs advertised by large companies, many…

Join Isaiah as explores career options for extroverted PhDs who love to collaborate and connect with others. Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode… First, Isaiah assures extroverted PhDs that they can still leverage their degree beyond the bench Next, he identifies some of the soft skills extroverted PhDs possess that make them a perfect fit for collaborative roles Finally, Isaiah explores 4 careers perfect that allow PhDs to capitalize on their outgoing personality From This Week’s Show… Extroverted PhDs Might Not Be Happy In Independent & Isolated Lab Roles Many people assume all PhDs are introverts. This of course, is not true. Plenty of PhDs get energized by being around people. If you find independent research to be lonely and monotonous; … if you thrive on other people’s energy; … and if you’re hungry for a job that allows you to work collaboratively with others … then these 4 industry positions might be for you. There Are Plenty Of Roles Perfect For Extroverted PhDs The first is the Medical Science Liaison role. If you love talking about science more than you like doing science, this is the perfect position for you. The second career I’m going to discuss…