Here’s a quick rundown of this week’s episode…

• First, Isaiah discusses the many blind spots PhDs have when it comes to their skills
• Next, Isaiah explains how your experience in academic research – from grant writing, to analysis, to communication – can translate into industry relevant skills
• Finally, Isaiah emphasizes the importance of communicating these transferable skills in your industry job search

In your industry job search, you’ll notice that most job descriptions place a particular emphasis on transferable skills.

Things such as communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. These are the skills that transfer to almost any job in industry, hence the term transferable.

The key is to communicate these skills using the language of industry, or industry-speak.

Let’s start with grant writing. While you likely won’t be writing grants in industry, what grant writing demonstrates is your ability to come up with a fundable idea.

In industry, this is called a pitch or a business case.

In industry, you may have to justify a project, the need for an additional team member, or the purchase of a new piece of equipment.

While the context is different, the process is much the same.

Another skill PhDs have is the ability to analyze data and extract meaningful conclusions.

Many companies in industry have warehouses of servers full of data. And as big data becomes more prevalent, more companies will need more PhDs who can make sense of the data.

You may not be using the same exact tools or platforms that you used during your PhD, but your ability to take complex datasets and draw novel conclusions is needed in all areas of industry.

Let’s not forget your experience with publishing and presenting your research.

The ability to communicate clearly is a criterion of most industry jobs.

Companies are in constant communication with their clients, partners, staff, board members, regulatory bodies, and even the general public.

That means they need competent technical writers and communicators who are able to concisely describe results in a way that is meaningful to each type of audience.

By communicating your skills using the language of industry, you will get hired faster and into better roles than you would otherwise.

If you’re ready to start your transition into industry, you can apply to book a free Transition Call with our founder Isaiah Hankel, PhD or one of our Transition Specialists. Apply to book a Transition Call here.

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