Hello Reader,
A lot of folks misunderstand one of LinkedIn’s most valuable (and completely free) functions: A search engine to learn about people who have a huge range of different jobs.
I frequently talk about networking with my clients and other PhDs looking for meaningful work outside the academy.
What I typically mean when I say “networking” isn’t shaking hands with men in pressed suits or baggy chinos at awkward events; instead, it’s informational interviews and similar purposeful conversations where the goal is the exchange of information, insights, and advice.
One of the common situations PhDs find themselves in when seeking work is jumping right into applying online for positions in unfamiliar fields and industries instead of first familiarizing themselves with these fields and industries.
If you’re not yet crystal clear on what you want to do, what it’s called, and who hires for it, take time to reflect and educate yourself.
That includes investigating whether your assumptions about different kinds of work and employers are on the mark.
You can start doing this immediately by taking advantage of LinkedIn’s search features. There is so much rich information available there. Be curious about what you’re reading.
Consider who you might want to learn more from, perhaps by asking a question on a post, sending a private message or email, or requesting a 1:1 conversation (informational interview).
Incorrect assumptions or out of date information can lead you significantly astray in understanding what’s happening in unfamiliar-to-you workplaces, including about how hiring happens and what recruiters need from job seekers.
When you’re a job seeker, the more accurate insights and analysis you can gather, the better informed you’ll be about where you might thrive and how you can land a great role with as little stress and wasted time as possible (even if the process may still suck).
And here’s one last LinkedIn tip: You can grab a custom QR code that will direct folks to your profile! This means you don’t have to share unwieldy URLs or exchange business cards (that you probably forgot to bring anyway). Instead, easily display the code on your phone using the LinkedIn mobile app.
To get your code, click on the search bar within the LinkedIn app. At the right-most edge of the bar will be a QR code icon; click that to display your code. That’s it!
What’s Happening
- Free Wednesday co-working continues; sign up on my website.
- Want more co-working? Sign up for Flow Club, where I’m a regular host. Use my link to get a free two-week trial.
- Folks in my PhD Career Clarity Program: Join me on Friday for our July live workshop, “‘Can You Refer Me for this Role?’ Navigating Asking for Referrals as a Job Seeker.” Details in the Community.
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I want these weekly emails to be helpful to you, whether you’re actively looking for a job, considering your options, or want to build your knowledge and network to enrich your career now and in future.
Or, maybe you’re here because you support graduate students, postdocs, and faculty members in their careers. I’m happy to be helpful to you too.
Do you have a question for me or a topic you want me to address? Another suggestion? Let me know!
Thanks for reading,
Jen
P.S. Want to explore working with me? Visit my Services page to learn about options, or reply to this email and let me know what you want my help with!
Jennifer Polk, PhD
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