Finding the Right Job

Finding the Right Job:

Lessons learned moving between Academia and Industry

Some years ago, I found myself working for a bank. It wasn’t really planned. I had been doing some consultancy work for them and when they asked me join them in a full-time position, I thought, ‘Why not?’

It wasn’t my worst ever experience but it was far from the best. I worked with some very nice people but I found the structure very hierarchical and the approach to training superficial. And all anyone seemed to talk about was money (yes, I know - it was a bank!).

Eventually, I went back to work in a university in what became one of my favourite jobs.

However, before that, and before working in academia, I spent a long time with a semi-governmental organization, not-for-profit but revenue earning. The pay wasn’t great but the culture was highly ‘democratic’ and people orientated, with a great emphasis on supporting professional development. I found it an enjoyable and fulfilling environment.

So what did I learn from these experiences? I don’t regret any of them because they taught me about myself, about the differences between sectors and organisations, and about the pitfalls.

However, probably the most important lesson was about making professional moves in a purposeful and informed manner. This is true even when you are making a move within academia but applies especially when you are considering a move to another sector. Here are three ways in which to do that:

1. Thoroughly research a sector and organization that you are considering. Different sectors have distinct cultures and different organizations very enormously in the way they organize their work, communicate, and manage people. You need to do more than glance over their website.

2. Know your values and look for roles that align with them. Although we all like a decent salary, in my experience, many academics are not highly materialistic and money-motivated (but you might be! No judgement). Spend some time defining your values, what motivates you and how you like to work. Then look for organizations that offer a culture where you will thrive.

3. Take notice of red flags. I was in an interview once, when the person who would become my line manager, put down the HR director in front of me, and the rest of the panel, for asking a not very bright question. I took the job and discovered that this was a pattern of behaviour. As Maya Angelou said, ‘When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.’

These are basic issues, but it doesn't do any harm to be reminded. Your career is an important part of your life. It is important to be happy and fulfilled.

I’ve created a checklist that might help you as you research sectors and organisations. If you think it might be useful, you can access it here.