Job Search After PhD
Hello everyone,
I’m reaching out to seek advice from professional recruiters and talent acquisition experts. I’m currently based in Denmark and completed my PhD in organizational behavior in December 2021. While I continue to work at the university, focusing on research and teaching, I have about six years of prior industry experience in HR roles and recruitment. I’m eager to return to an HR-related position in the industry and am willing to start in an assistant role to learn and grow within an organization.
Over the past year, I’ve applied to numerous positions, but responses have been few and far between. I’ve started to wonder if my lack of recent hands-on experience is a barrier, or if companies are unsure of how to value my PhD and research background.
I would greatly appreciate any tips or strategies to improve my chances of landing interviews. Do recruiters still consider motivational letters important? Would it be worthwhile to apply for positions even when they aren’t advertised?
Thank you in advance for your insights!
RCadmin
Hi there,
Firstly, congratulations on completing your PhD! Transitioning back into industry can be challenging, especially after an extended period in academia, but your background in organizational behavior and HR equips you with valuable skills.
Here are some tips to help you in your job search:
Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and motivational letters for each position. Highlight your relevant industry experience and focus on how your PhD research can add value to the company. Be specific about skills that are transferable to an HR role.
Networking: Leverage your existing network and aim to expand it. Attend industry events, seminars, and workshops. Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your target companies. Informal chats can often lead to opportunities.
Skill Refresh: If you’re concerned about lacking recent operational experience, consider engaging in short courses or certifications directly related to current HR practices and tools (e.g., HR analytics, employee engagement strategies).
Unsolicited Applications: Definitely consider applying unsolicited, especially to companies you admire. A well-crafted letter explaining your interest and how your unique skills can benefit them can catch attention.
Recruiter Engagement: While some recruiters may not delve deeply into motivational letters, a compelling narrative about your journey can still set you apart. Emphasize your eagerness to contribute and grow in a practical environment.
Showcase Your Research: Highlight specific research outcomes or insights that could apply to real-world HR challenges. This can show potential employers that your academic work has practical implications.
Entry-Level Positions: Don’t hesitate to apply for entry-level roles or assistant positions. Frame this move as a strategic transition to gain operational experience while contributing your unique insights.
Follow Up: After applying, consider following up after a few weeks to express your continued interest. This shows initiative and enthusiasm.
Persistence is key, so keep applying and refining your approach. Your unique blend of academic knowledge and industry experience makes you a valuable candidate. Good luck!