According to a new report from the EUA-CDE, 75% of universities that they surveyed believe that non-academic employers only understand the value of a PhD “to some extent”.
So, what does this mean for those PhD researchers who are looking to move out of academia and into business or industry? What does it mean for those who need to convince employers of their relevance and worth when applying for vacancies or making speculative enquiries?
Well, let’s take a look at that statistic: “75% of employers only understanding the value of a PhD to some extent”. The good news for you is that this highlights a communication gap, not a talent gap. The not-so-good news is that you need to work harder, spend more time and put more effort into your job search and the application process, to persuade these slightly doubtful organisations of your talents!
So, what does this involve? Well, it means you’ll need to put more time aside for your career, take proactive steps to translate your skills, increase your visibility, and align yourself with industry expectations. Here’s how:
TRANSLATE YOUR SKILLS INTO ‘BUSINESS LANGUAGE’
‘De-jargon’ your CV and cover letter: For example, instead of saying “took the lead in a research collaboration”, say “managed a project with five stakeholders and a 50K budget”.
As the survey shows, almost 100% of universities believe that a doctorate equips you with transferable and professional skills ‘to a great or some extent’. If you think you’re lacking in a particular skill, look into ways to close this gap with courses or by volunteering.
Use quantifiable achievements (e.g., “cut data processing time by 30% through automation”, coordinated a team of three international partners …. “
NETWORK AND INCREASE YOUR VISIBILITY
Attend career fairs and/or talks to find out more about industry/business roles and use the opportunity to network and connect with the speakers and exhibitors.
Reach out to PhD alumni on LinkedIn who now work in industry – connect with them and even ask for an ‘informational interview’ to find out more (but before you reach out make sure you look professional – see my previous blog about this).
Like, comment or contribute to online discussions, blogs, or podcasts related to your field.
GET INDUSTRY-RELATED EXPERIENCE
As the survey results show above, exposure to non-academic employers is less prevalent, so if your PhD or postdoc allows, try to get an internship or voluntary experience working in industry/business.
Reach out to industry partners connected with your research project.
TARGET YOUR APPLICATIONS
One of the main reasons that any application is unsuccessful is because it is generic and untargeted. Employers show you ‘the answers’ on their job description, in the person specifications and on their websites and other media. All you need to do is take this information and match your CV and covering letter to their requirements.
Tailor your application to demonstrate who you will contribute to the organisation and even how you will solve an employer’s problem, not just to describe your research.
In interviews, use storytelling (e.g. the STAR technique) to show how your research mirrors industry challenges (e.g. pivoting, testing, delivering under pressure).
GET CAREER SUPPORT
Transitioning to non-academic careers can be challenging for many reasons, not least of all because you may well have spent the majority, if not, your whole career studying and working in academia, so the prospect of leaving can be daunting and even frightening. This is a completely normal human reaction to change, so don’t be alarmed. As well as following the advice above, see if you can get support from within your own institution (some of whom have dedicated academic careers staff) or attend career workshops and events, all of which are free and targeted to PhD and even postdoctoral researchers.
There are also independent career coaches like myself who can help you on an individual basis (but do try to get some financial assistance for this from within your research project or department, if it’s available).