How to Get a Job in Industry After PhD

Wed, 16 August, 2023

Stand Out in Industry Job Searches after Completing Your PhD: Tips and Strategies 

When it comes to getting a job in industry after completing a PhD, there are a few key things that can help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of landing the position you want. Here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Tailor your CV to the job you are applying for...

it's important to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job and industry you are targeting. This means highlighting your relevant skills and experiences, and demonstrating how they align with the needs and priorities of the company. Make sure to research the company and the industry thoroughly, so that you can speak to their mission, values, and goals in your application.

2. Network at events before, during and after your PhD...

Networking is another crucial component of job searching in industry. Attend conferences, workshops, and other events in your field to meet people who can offer advice, connections, and potential job opportunities. Don't be afraid to reach out to alumni from your graduate programme or other professionals in your network to ask for informal interviews or introductions to people in your target companies. Business cards are still very useful at these kinds of events, so don't just rely on your online profiles like LinkedIn.

3. Gain real-world experience within your chosen industry...

In addition to networking, it's important to gain relevant experience outside of your academic research. Look for opportunities to work on industry projects, internships, or volunteer work that can help you develop skills and knowledge that are relevant to the job you are seeking. This can also help you build your professional network and demonstrate your commitment to the field.

One effective way to gain relevant experience is to participate in industry-focused training programmes or workshops. These can provide you with hands-on experience working on real-world projects, as well as exposure to the latest industry trends and technologies. Look for programmes that are offered by reputable companies or organisations in your field, and that offer opportunities for networking and mentorship.

At NSIRC, we exemplify this process because our PhD students work from the office of TWI. That experience means that they get to know how the business of research industries can work, as well as everyday processes like timesheets, booking meetings and holiday requests. This means that prospective employers of our graduates know that our PhD students are not only equipped with the knowledge to work within the industry but the training as well. This saves time and money, both very appealing aspects to point out during a job interview.

4. Be prepared - research the company carefully before your interview...

When it comes to interviewing for industry jobs, it's important to be prepared. Research the company and the position thoroughly beforehand, and be ready to talk about your relevant skills and experiences in a clear and concise manner. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer, and be prepared to discuss your long-term career goals and how they align with the company's mission and values.

5. Remain flexible because industries can rapidly change

Finally, it's important to be flexible and open-minded when it comes to your job search. You may need to consider positions that are slightly outside of your comfort zone or that require you to relocate to a new town or city. Don't be discouraged if you don't land your ideal job right away – keep networking, gaining experience, and refining your job search strategy until you find the right fit.

 

The answer to how to get a job in industry after PhD requires a combination of targeted job searching, networking, gaining relevant experience, and being prepared for interviews.

By following these tips and staying focused on your goals, you can increase your chances of landing a fulfilling and rewarding career in your chosen field.

There are currently many great opportunities with NSIRC and TWI, from PhD Studentships to skilled engineers and more. To find out more about the current opportunities at NSIRC, visit our PhD Opportunities page. If you would like to see what TWI has to offer, visit their employment site.