Life after PhD: Where do you go from here?

Ok, you have your PhD or you’re working on it, but what’s next?

It’s a question that thousands of scientists and academics ask themselves every year. Transitioning from academia to a new professional role can feel like a big leap, but you already have many of the skills you need to shine. Our consultants and talent experts help people around the world to find their next move every day, and we’ve brought together the big questions that can help you to think about the specialism and industry that you’d like to land in.

Explore these questions to shape your thinking on life after PhD.

What are your biggest personality traits?

This is a big decision and it makes sense to start with you. There are lots of ways to explore your dominant personality traits, from self-reflection to standardised testing or an in-depth assessment with a work coach. We often use the DISC personality scale when we’re working with candidates, but there are other high-profile personality tests that you can find online. The important thing is to understand what type of role will make you happy. If you’re a details person then something in quality or regulatory affairs may be your perfect match, while outgoing influencers may thrive in a fast-paced sales role.

What skills do you have?

This one sounds simple, but you probably have more skills than you think. You need to explore not only the quantifiable technical skills that you have picked up during your academic career and internships but also the soft skills that shape the way you work. Soft skills could include a knack for problem-solving, adaptability, resilience, and leadership skills. Finally, mad skills are an important buzzword in talent right now, and they relate to outstanding skills in a key area or a strong entrepreneurial drive.

Do you want to be permanent or independent?

The world of work has shifted fast in the last few years and there are more independent and freelance workers than ever before. Working as an independent consultant could provide the freedom to explore different types of organisations, industries, and ways of working. However, you may be looking for a job with greater security and the stability to put down roots and really get to grips with a specialism. There is no right or wrong path, but it’s an important consideration for every science professional in today’s jobs market.

What does the jobs market look like?

Although much of this big decision revolves around internal factors, it’s also important to be aware of what’s going on in your local and global talent markets. You can get some sense of where opportunities lie by exploring job boards, being part of professional networks, and keeping up with the latest talent news and trends, but it’s always useful to have a conversation with an expert. Our friendly consultants have worked or studied in the scientific world and they can share personalised advice on the jobs market in your area of expertise.

Want to find out more about transitioning from academia to a new professional role?

Check out our recent webinar from Emmanuelle Hoarau, PhD, to discover more tips and insights on choosing your next steps. Or reach out to our experienced team for advice on matching with your ideal role.

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Navigating Career Crossroads: Your Guide to Fulfilling Your Next Career Move!

06 Feb, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of the professional world, many of us find ourselves at crossroads, contemplating a change in career or seeking new opportunities to ignite our passion.

September Surge – Our Top Tips for Job Seekers

By Shazamme System User • 07 Sep, 2023

Summer is over. September is here. For you lovers of the summer this can often bring feelings of the blues, but September can represent a time for a fresh start. This time of the year can offer many opportunities for job hunters to find a new job that aligns with their skills, goals, and experience. Check out our top tips on how you can land your dream job this time around (and why you should work with Kelly). 1. Get Clear On Your Goals First and foremost, you must have a clear objective of what you want for your career. Searching for a new job can bring feelings of excitement and motivation but it can also be overwhelming for applicants. Having an idea of what industries, you would like to work in, the timeline in which you would like to find a job, and the companies you’re interested in will reduce those negative feelings but will also give you a sense of direction and focus. 2. Update Your CV The next thing you should look at is improving and updating your CV. Have you demonstrated your most valuable skills? Have you highlighted your most important accomplishments and achievements? Have you included your personal websites, business profiles, and your LinkedIn profile? These are some of the many things to consider when updating your CV. Job applicants should also keep in mind that you should adjust your CV for every job you apply for. You should customize your CV so that it reflects the job you’re applying for. 3. Work with a Recruiter Are you aware of the benefits of working with a recruiter? Recruiters are experts in the hiring industry. They can help save you a significant amount of time during your job search as they know exactly what jobs are available in the market and they can match you with a role that aligns with your experience. Recruitment consultants can help you improve your CV and cover letter as well as make sure you are prepared for interviews. If you would like to read more about the benefits of working with a recruiter, click here . September is an excellent time of the year to find that new opportunity that you have been longing for. By following these tips, you should be on the right course to navigate the job market and find a role that suits you. It’s important to stay positive during your job search as it can sometimes be a lengthy process. But just remember, the right opportunity can take time. If you would like assistance during your job search, please do not hesitate to reach out and email us at info@kellyservices.ie . Or click here to search our latest vacancies and apply today!

Change. How to turn your fear into fuel for a rocket move and wake up in a different reality.

28 Aug, 2023

Rephrasing the famous song, “Love is in the air”, let’s talk about change is in the air – and everywhere. We grow. We change. Look at your childhood photos. Watch your kid, your nephew, your niece. The change is there, and it’s incredible. Nature is constantly changing. We wait for summer as the time to enjoy outdoor activities and gardening, for a quick visit to the beach, or simply take time to relax and spend time with family, friends and loved ones. We wait for winter (even if we never see snow falling) to decorate the house for the holidays, pack presents for the people we love and unpack our own. The colour of the leaves changes, the weather shifts, and flowers blossom in their time – the landscape is constantly transforming. The world around us is changing. We travel to other countries and learn new things, cultures and languages. We take on new hobbies. We get new skills. After a couple of minor kitchen accidents (sometimes), we can cook delicious dishes and get compliments from family and friends. We transform our bodies at the gym or simply by creating the habit of walking every day. We meet new people, we sometimes fall in love, we build families, we have kids. And if you step back for a second, you realise you might have met your other half by pure accident. But you took a leap of faith into the unknown. We embrace many types of unknown change, except for the one that can change how we live five days a week – to change jobs. “I am too old/too young to change”, “I’m used to this environment; It’s my comfort zone”, “Well, I don’t get any promotion, and what I do doesn’t change the world, but it’s stable”, “I am afraid to ask for more interesting projects. What if my manager fires me?”. We often don’t want to change because that step requires a vision, courage, external support, and a leap of faith into the unknown. Scary? Yes. But also promising. A step into the unknown? Yes. But it can open a new door. Do your inner values marry what you do? Yes, it is essential. There is nothing terrible about staying in your comfort zone. At some stage of your career, staying put can be an excellent decision. But if you feel that you need a change – talk to Kelly. We don’t mind going the extra mile and support your wish to embrace the change. The one which will give meaning to what you do, feel proud, motivated and fulfilled. Ready for changing? We’ll make sure your talent can truly shine.