Whether unemployed or just looking for that next position, there are many people who could use some biotech job-hunting advice right now. So how can you land your dream job? The How to Build Your Dream Team panel may have been geared towards biotech execs looking to hire, but the panelists also offered tips for navigating the job search process.
If you're still in a job, keep your performance level high up until the very last day so that you can leave your company in good standing. "You may grow and acquire skills that may be important to the company later on," says Chad Womack, president and executive director of Philadelphia Biotechnology and Life Sciences Institute.
For those unemployed, there's a lot of work to be done. First, get to a computer and search for your name on Google. No, really. Employers are increasingly adding Internet searches to their background check protocols. You should know what your name (or face) is attached to before your prospective employer does. Also take time to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Employers will want to know--and may even test you to find out--so be prepared. For those gunning for leadership positions, do you know your leadership philosophy? The industry is constantly changing, so also make sure you're keeping up with the latest research and technology. And in today's global environment, having some international work experience or knowledge about drug development in other countries will give you a leg up.
The job hunt starts with networking. According to Shawn O'Brien, CEO of Profectus BioSciences, 50 to 60 percent of jobs are filled through networking. For O'Brien, Big Pharma employees don't network enough, which has left recently laid off employees unable to find jobs. Maintain contact with your former employer and coworkers. It's especially important that you speak well of them, even if it was a bad experience, urges Larry Tyler, president of the Tyler and Company recruitment agency. You never know who you're talking to and you don't want to burn bridges.
More important than just getting a job is finding one that aligns with your personality, values and needs. So once you've landed an interview, don't leave that office without a good understanding of the company's vision, culture and expectations. To that end, O'Brien says there are two important questions candidates should ask: "It's a year from now and you're happy with me. Why? What have I done?" and "What's the number one reason I shouldn't take this job?"
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