Thread by @SafeChem79

It’s never too early to begin prepping for the 2021 hiring season. Many companies post open positions in Q1/Q2 having budgets approved for that fiscal year. For anyone looking to make the leap into pharma/biotech here are a few points to consider:
@Chemjobber #chemtwitter

1) There are a lot of awesome companies that do amazing science. Company size does not determine quality of science. Be willing to look at big, medium, and small startups. Each will have a different culture. Find one that not only pays the bills, but makes you proud to work there

2) Tailor your CV to the role you are applying to. If the job lists experience needed with catalyst/ligand screening your PhD was in this area, make sure the experience you list matches keywords in the job post. 1000s of CVs will be prescreened. Make sure yours gets through

3) For example, when I was applying out of my postdoc, I had a CV for Discovery jobs and one for Process Chem jobs. Although they were 80% the same, each one highlighted different areas of focus depending on the job. Keep your options open if you don’t have a strong preference

4) Cover letters can be tough to write but are IMPORTANT. I read every one that I see. Take a few minutes to introduce yourself. What is your passion and what skills to you bring to this particular role? And PLEASE proofread it. Having the wrong company name is tough to overlook

5) Understand that if the role is for a recent grad and you have 10-15 years you may not be considered for a phone interview. We may only have budget allocated for a certain level. If the post lists 3-5 yrs and you have 6, def apply, some flexibility is possible

6) if you are open to a role anywhere in US or Europe that’s great, but limiting the search may be less intimidating. Break up your search into geographic locations and find all the companies you would love to work with. Sign up for their job alerts!! Then move to another area

7) Job alerts are important because roles are usually only posted for a predetermined amount of time (~2 weeks). Missing your dream job posting can be incredibly demoralizing in this stressful time!!

8) Stay positive and use your network! We were all in your shoes once and many of us are here to help 😃