Congratulations! You’re ready to take the next step in your career. Whether you’re just starting out, transitioning to a mid-career, or preparing for a senior role, finding the right position is crucial. This article will guide you through key considerations to help you make an informed choice and ensure your next move aligns with your goals and values.
Reference Your Career Plan
Start by reflecting on your current career stage: early, mid, or late. This assessment will help you determine which opportunities align with your career plan.
● Early Career Stage: If you're transitioning from academia to industry, consider moving to a wet or dry bench position in your field. In academia, experiments are designed for publication; in industry, projects are focused on achieving regulatory approval, such as from the FDA. This experience will allow you to learn the entire lifecycle of a therapeutic or tool, from early development to post-market, which is incredibly valuable for your growth.
● Mid-Career Stage: Think about what you want your last position to be. Would you prefer an individual contributor role, or are you aiming for a leadership position? Potential goals could range from becoming a group leader or senior director to heading a department or even joining the C-suite. Networking is key—connect with scientists in roles you find intriguing and ask which past positions were pivotal in their careers and why.
● Late Career Stage: If you're in the late stage of your career, it’s time to aim for the top positions in your career plan. These might be the roles you’ve envisioned for years—reach for them confidently.
Determination of Success
One of the most critical factors in choosing your next position is evaluating the organization's culture. This aspect can significantly affect your job satisfaction and performance. You can often get a sense of the company culture during the interview process, so it’s essential to pay attention to the details.
Start by identifying what you want from your next job. Make a list of ten key factors that are most important to you in a role. This list will serve two purposes: it will help you decide whether a job offer meets your needs, and it will guide you in formulating the right questions to ask during interviews to gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
Here are some examples of what to consider:
● Opportunities for career development
● Desired salary range
● Flexible or hybrid work arrangements
● Clear criteria for promotions
● The company's commitment to social responsibility
● How well the company's mission aligns with your own values
Aim for at least nine out of these ten factors to be met before accepting a position.
Evaluate the Interview Process
Another crucial factor is how you were treated during the interview. Remember, interviewers are often on their best behavior, so be on the lookout for red flags that might indicate a poor fit.
Ask yourself:
● Did the interviewer review your resume beforehand?
● Were they punctual?
● Did they arrange for you to meet the team you’d be working with?
● Did you receive a schedule with the interviewers' names and positions?
● How did the initial greetings feel—warm or uncomfortable?
● Were you treated respectfully and kindly?
Reflect on whether any questions felt off-putting or irrelevant. An example of a strange question might be: "If you were an animal, what would you be?" or a question that seemed outside your field of expertise. These could indicate a lack of clarity about the role or the company's culture.
Post-Interview Follow-Up
After the interview, pay attention to how the organization handles follow-up. Did they get back to you on the day or week they indicated? Were they professional and courteous in their communication?
Finally, listen to your gut. If something feels off, it's worth paying attention to those feelings. If you receive an offer, take the time to conduct reference checks by speaking with past employees. Ask them about their experience with management and the organization as a whole. Inquire about why they left the company; their answers can provide valuable insights into the company culture.
Conclusion
Choosing your next position is about more than just salary or title; it's about finding an environment where you can thrive professionally and personally. By referencing your career plan, determining what success looks like to you, and evaluating the organization's culture and the interview experience, you can make a more informed and satisfying choice for your next career step. Trust your instincts, do your homework, and aim for alignment with your values and goals.