Department/Affiliation: Radiology / F.M. Kirby Research Center
After finally getting that oh-so-elusive academic degree, we then need to figure out how to get a job. Whether you're trying to get an interview or get the offer, here are a few things to think about: showcasing your skills, customizing your application, and brainstorming your interview answers.
Part 03: Your Interview
Research the job and organization, so that you're familiar
with the lingo (e.g., if you're interviewing for the FDA, find out what a
"PMA" is). See which things they emphasize on their websites, and get
a feel for how you may fit into the work environment. Also think of a few
questions that you may have for the interviewer -- what's an example of a
"typical" day on the job? What sorts of things would you want to
improve about your job?
The best way to prepare for an interview is to practice --
especially with a real, live person. Schedule a mock interview with the
Professional Development Office to figure out what sorts of questions you may
need to answer, and/or look through the questions below.
Why do you want to go
into consulting/policy/academia/whatever field you're applying for?
This is not just a philosophical question -- this is a
chance for you to showcase your skills. If you are changing fields, then focus
on the skills that are translatable from your current field, and state how they
would be valuable in the position that you're applying for. For example:
"I know how to solve problems analytically, communicate effectively, be
resourceful, look at the big picture, ... and I want to apply them to [your
field] because ..." Be ready to discuss why you're leaving your current
field, but don't sound negative about what you currently do. Do some background
research to figure out what the job entails or what makes people in that field
successful, and figure out how you can fit in, so that the employer will want
you to join the team.
What are your
strengths and weaknesses?
This is a tough one. Among your strengths, make sure that
you choose something that is applicable for the job you're applying to (e.g.,
science communication, analytical skills, time management, etc.), and point to
specific examples to back it up. For weaknesses, focus on something that you
"are working to improve." Do NOT point to a medical problem, religious
or political views, or a social issue. Don't bring up anything that could be a
deal breaker for your interviewer, like bad time management skills or inability
to talk to strangers. (That said, if you have bad time management skills, you
should work on that -- any job will be much easier if you learn how to budget
your time!) If something was difficult for you in the past, but you've overcome
previous weaknesses, then that's a great story to talk about: "I used to
be terrified of public speaking, but I've learned that I get less nervous after
practicing many times. Now I feel more confident when giving an oral
presentation."
Much of our job
involves working in teams. Describe how you worked in a team. How did you
resolve any conflicts that arose during this collaboration?
Your answer to this question should come from experience. It's
especially helpful if you've worked with a team that consisted of people at
higher professional positions than you, because it means that you can persuade
people, even if you have no direct influence over them. This is a measure of
your people skills, your tactfulness, and your resourcefulness.
Tell us about a time
you solved a problem.
Try not to use typical things that everyone is expected to
go through (e.g., do NOT say, "Well, I had this class, and it was really
hard.") Instead, use concrete numbers to show how much of an impact you
had. Use that STAR approach: What was the situation or the task that you needed
to accomplish? Which action(s) did you take? What were the results? Make sure
that you focus on what you did -- say "I" and not "we" --
so that the interviewer knows what you (not the team) are capable of.
~*~
Feel free to write out your thoughts first. Use bullet
points -- do not memorize word-for-word speeches, which could make you sound
insincere. Make sure that you can describe each aspect of your résumé in a
concise and clear manner. Practice your answers in your head and out loud
whenever you can, whether it's standing in line, looking in the mirror, or
meditating in the shower. All of these questions are designed to let the
employer determine how well you will fit -- not just the job, but also the job
place. Throughout it all, remember that you are showing them a product (you),
and you are the expert on yourself. Good luck!
[This is the third part of a series of three blog posts that list a few tips on the job-hunting process. Other sections are Part 01: Your Skills and Part 02: Your Application]
* A version of this article has also been published in The Transcript, a newsletter from the Hopkins BioTech Network.
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