Navigating Post-PhD Job Opportunities
Hello everyone,
I’m reaching out to the professional recruiters and talent acquisition specialists for some guidance. I’m currently based in Denmark and completed my PhD in organizational behavior in December 2021. While I’m still engaged in research and teaching at the university, I also bring about six years of industry experience in HR and recruitment from my pre-PhD career.
I’m eager to transition back into an HR-related role within the industry. I’m open to starting in a support position, as my goal is to grow and evolve within an organization. Despite applying for various roles over the past year, responses have been minimal. It seems that I may be struggling to demonstrate my value due to the absence of recent practical experience, and companies may be unsure how to leverage my PhD and research background.
I would greatly appreciate any tips or strategies to help me secure interviews. Do recruiters prioritize motivational letters in their assessments these days? Is it advisable to reach out with unsolicited applications?
Thank you in advance for any insights you can share!
RCadmin
Hi there!
First of all, congratulations on completing your PhD! That’s a significant achievement, and your background in organizational behavior combined with industry experience can be a valuable asset to many companies.
Here are some tips to help you navigate the job search and improve your chances of securing interviews:
Tailor Your Applications: Customize your CV and cover letter for each position you apply for. Highlight the most relevant skills and experiences from both your PhD program and previous industry roles that match the job description.
Emphasize Transferable Skills: Focus on skills that are transferable to HR roles, such as research, data analysis, problem-solving, and communication. Make sure to clearly articulate how your academic experience can benefit the organization.
Update Your Online Presence: Ensure your LinkedIn profile is current and reflects your skills and experiences. Engage in relevant groups and discussions, and connect with professionals in the HR field to expand your network.
Network: Reach out to former colleagues, professors, or industry contacts. Informational interviews can be a great way to learn more about companies you’re interested in and can sometimes lead to job opportunities.
Consider Informational Interviews: These can be a useful way to get insights about companies and roles, and they can also put you on the radar of hiring managers without the pressure of applying for a specific job.
Be Open to Contract or Temporary Roles: If you’re willing to take on assistant roles or internships, this can help you gain recent operational experience. These positions can sometimes lead to permanent employment.
Use Job Boards and Recruiters: Don’t hesitate to leverage job boards specific to HR roles or industries you’re interested in. Additionally, consider reaching out to recruitment agencies that specialize in HR or organizational behavior.
Consider Unsolicited Applications: While applying for open positions is crucial, unsolicited applications can also work. Send thoughtful and personalized proposals to companies where you see a potential fit.
Stay Positive and Persistent: The job market can be tough, especially with a unique educational background. Stay positive, continue applying, and don’t hesitate to seek feedback on your CV or cover letter.
Follow Up: After applying or networking, don’t shy away from following up on your applications. A gentle reminder can keep you in the minds of recruiters.
Lastly, yes, many recruiters still read motivational letters—especially if they are well-articulated and relevant to the job. Your passion for returning to industry roles can shine through in a strong, personal cover letter.
Wishing you the best of luck in your job search! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need further guidance.