Be nice!
We’ve all heard about six degrees of separation – the idea that everyone on the planet are six or fewer connections away from one another (i.e. “friend of a friend”). In the science world, it’s more like three degrees of separation. The science community is small, so to have a successful and fulfilling career in science it is important to always be kind and collaborative. Scientists talk with each other, especially when it comes to potentially hiring someone for their research group or company. Hiring committees are increasingly more cautious when hiring and perform their due diligence by having online background checks and/or speaking directly with references over the phone or by Skype for job candidates. The proverb, “People may not remember exactly what you did or what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel” is very applicable in science. First impressions matter and you want to make sure you leave a positive impression with everyone you meet during an interview. Having polite email and phone correspondence with your interviewers before, during, and after an interview is an also important yet commonly overlooked aspect of securing a job in STEM. Companies want to hire talented people that will strengthen the atmosphere and culture of their workplace and have the potential to grow into a contributing member of their team. So please – be polite, be punctual, and above all, be nice.
Network, Network, Network!
Making meaningful connections is vital to becoming successful in science. Serendipity is an amazing phenomenon where chance encounters can create lucky opportunities and open doors to new careers for you that you may have never considered before. Expanding your network can also help you identify potential mentors that can give you invaluable guidance on how to navigate your next steps in your career. For some young scientists that are introverts, this can be a daunting or downright terrifying experience. Don’t be shy – many senior scientists are ready, willing and eager to support the next generation of scientists navigate the job market. A great venue to grow your network is at conferences – each person that comes to your talk or by your poster to learn about your research could potentially become a new network connection. There are also career workshops held around the country that could be a good platform for you to learn more about STEM career options. Many universities and colleges have started to build their own LinkedIn-like platforms to connect students with potential internships or jobs, with many alumni joining these social networks to actively help and/or recruit from their alma mater. Informational interviews are another great way to build your network where you can gather firsthand information from an expert about the realities of working within a particular field and are an excellent way to learn more about a potential career or company environment before you apply for a job. Get out there and make a new connection or friend in the science community!
Be tenacious and strive for excellence!
Many science students work long hours in the lab thinking that if they work hard enough they will get that elusive result to complete their thesis or to publish a paper in an illustrious journal. For some this approach will lead to success; for others, the upsetting reality is that their project might not work out and they will struggle with feelings of disappointment. This can sometimes make young scientists question why they are in the field at all. Surround yourself with smart people in a positive work environment that will support your career growth and give you the mentorship you need at the right time. Tenacity, patience, and stick-to-itiveness are the hallmarks of a successful scientist. “Dust yourself off and get back in the ring” is an excellent phrase to keep motivated and approach your career in STEM – never give up!
Don’t be afraid of take on a new challenge!
