Applying and Interviewing For Industry Science Jobs 040110

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CONFIDENTIALITY DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

I, Matthew Seavey, will present slides describing my various experiences as a
scientist searching for a position within the private sector of commercialized
science. Ideas, opinions, and comments described in these slides and during this
seminar are my own and do not represent those of my current work affiliation
company, Cephalon, Inc. I am here on the behalf of the University of
Pennsylvania and as an alumni and not as a Cephalon employee.
Approval Date: March 27th 2010

Public Disclosure Date: April 1st 2010
Matthew M. Seavey, Ph.D.

UPenn Career Talk, 4-1-2010
E-mail: matthew.seavey@gmail.com
Applying and Interviewing

for Industry Science Jobs
Brief Overview
Searching and Applying for Industry R&D Positions
Working with Recruiters and Headhunters
Building Your Industry Resume
Interview Preparation and Conduct
Selecting a New Hire and Starting Your Job
What Helped Me Find a Job and How You Can Help Yourself

Is Industry Right for MeRight Now?

Life, Family, Health, Goals, Dreams What do
you need right now and where do you want to be
in 5, 10, 20 years down the road?
Do I want to do a fellowship or lead a team of
scientists?
Am I leader or a follower? Can I be organized,
competent, results driven and focused?
What are my salary requirements, healthcare
requirements? Job security?
Am I willing to relocate, commute?
Can I handle the stress, long hour work weeks,
travel associated with the job?

Pros and Cons of Working in Industry vs. Academia

Depends on What You Want
Environment/Creature comforts Campus Life versus Cubicle Hell
Age Differences Campus is alive with young people, companies are filled with
experienced professionals that joined 15-20 years ago and with kids in college
Academic labs are alive with energy, Industry labs are tools for focused work
Industry Things move fast, always something going on, very dynamic, never a
dull moment, data/results driven, plenty of opportunity
Industry Plentiful resources, larger budgets, office spaces, perks, established
reporting hierarchy and policies very organized, business oriented
Opportunity for publishing depends on the company, many promote conference
attendance and publishing
Meetings, seminars, presentations, reports reading/writing/presenting all the time
You are seen as an expert tool for the organization, you hold a real responsibility to
stay on top of the literature and justify your actions/ideas
Researching Your OptionsFinding Open

PositionsNetworking
DO NOT: Limit your time and effort you invest in your job search it must be
almost an obsession always be aware of how your actions and comments could
be used for or against you when looking for new opportunities
DO NOT: Limit yourself by searching the same job boards diversify yourself
Job Fairs Worthless?? Depends Talk more to the people around you and less
to the single HR rep at the end of a long line
Networking doesnt work and is fake and artificial DO NOT force or fake
networking, it is a natural part of making contacts and keeping friends, be sincere
and network by being proactive networking is about relationships
DO NOT project your desperation; when networking watch out for the J word,
this is a clear sign that you are more interested in your own self promotion than the
conversation or person
My Rule of Thumb: Look for a job when you dont need onethe smell of
desperation stinksdont get burnt by your efforts to find a new position
Working with Recruiters and Headhunters

Help recruiters and headhunters to find candidatesthey will help you in return
They will keep a file on helpful sources, some jobs may be a fit for you
Headhunters tend to be independent consultants, experienced and field specific
Recruiters are more generalized, less experienced and very broad field wise
Cold call a recruiter if you see a posting, this saves them time searching for you
Many companies use several recruiting firms simultaneously in addition to online
postings, sometimes they are the facilitator other times they are the middle man
Join online networking sites like Linked-In - #1 Source Used by Recruiters

Building Your Resume for an Industry R&D Position
Focus on accomplishments and

achievements, focus on results, provide
facts!
Throw out the standard academic CV,

describe yourself, use key/buzz words for
HR
Make both a single page and full version of

your resume, bring both versions to all
meetings
Give the full version when prompted or to

the hiring manager/HR rep
Make sure you build a cover letter and make

it specific to the job
References Keep them updated, keep a

working relationship, send them a thank you
letter references are key, send them a gift
when you land a position
Full Resume Example Geared for Industry

Clear contact info, add LinkedIn address
Clearly communicate your professional

expertise and career objectives
Quickly highlight your accomplishments
Good for buzz words/HR Job description
List your accomplishments, provide numbers/facts
Translate your experience into

a skill for the job
Show that you are organized

Full Resume Example Geared for Industry

You are a diverse and
experienced scientist
Turn an old experience into a
new edge for your job
Give them the skill that they want
Show them you can lead a team
You are well accomplishedbrag a bit
You get involved

You get things done
Dont believe me?just ask

these people
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Application Processor Black Hole for Resumes?

Three basic methods of applying for an industry position
Through a recruiter or headhunter (30%)
Online application (10%)
Your immediate network (60%)
Make sure you apply to a specific job make a resume for each job, include words from the job description HR search
engines will only pull out specific matches
If you do not apply to a specific job, general submission, your resume will sit in
HRs database until the company needs a quick hirethen the search will begin
In the past year I have been on both sides one of the biggest problems is that
people apply for jobs for which they are overqualified or lack the requirements
Make sure you have a cover letter for each specific job, this is where you can
expand on your one page resume
Follow-up Remember people are busy, be persistent but patient
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Getting a Bite First Contact The Phone Interview

Tip Prepare just as much as you would for a face-to-face
interview e.g. wear a suit this will make it easier for you to
play the part
Cold Call Phone Interview Let the interviewer know that you
are in the middle of something and to call back in a few
minutes get yourself ready in the process
Speak clearly into the receiver, modulate your voice Your
voice is the only way you have of showing eagerness,
enthusiasm and zest for the job
Introduce yourself, engage in some small talk at the start of
the interview
Avoid sloppy speech habits um, ah, you know, okay,
like this tells the interviewer that you are not prepared or
confident in yourself
Avoid incorrect grammar or slang she dont, me and my
friend, so I goes to him
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You Can Talk the TalkCan You Now Walk the Walk?
First Interview Proving Yourself
You may visit the facility Be nice to everyone!
Receptionist, potential co-workers, etc
Manners, tact, confidence, eye contact, strong
handshakefirst impressions matter gut instincts start
forming now
Three reasons employers hire you:
Do you have the skills? Past performance predicts
future behavior Provide examples from the past
What is your leadership style?
Do you like the skills? Show passion, energy,
commitment
Why do you love our company? Your hiring
manager is most likely proud of his/her department
they want you to want themgenuinely
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You Can Walk the Walk Do You Play Well With Others?
The Second Interview Personality/Team Fit
Relax a bitthey are interestedbut expect more of everything in the 2 nd interview

Will be a long daymay include a lunch and dinnermay have a group interview,
another seminar or meeting with senior directors and executives
Try to find out in advance the agenda, HR can help. Research all whom you will be
meeting, make a file for each person, have questions ready
Know something about each person as a conversation starter
You may have to present to the department or select individuals
What are they really looking for in a team player? Are you a normal, happy,
professional person with good work ethic?
Inter-communication skills
Personality, attitude, tact
Eger, ambitious, goal setter, energy and passion
Motivated, committed, quality > quantity
Find out what they are looking to accomplish and let that be your guide
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Preparing for an Industry Interview

Know what you know and what you dont knowand be comfortable with
this idea of yourself
Ask yourself What contributions will I bring to the employer?
Prepare a list of answers to a list of frequently asked questions during an
interviewclassic cookie cutter Q&A sessions
Research the Occupation - Read articles written by people who are in the field,
inform yourself about future trends
What problems does the organization need to overcome match your abilities to
meet the need of the company in your specific area (e.g. R&D)
What is the companys mission statement or history? Current issues?
Make a checklist confirm date, time, place of interview
Pack several copies of your resume, personal business card, list of references,
cover letter, if possible a previous performance evaluation
Be punctual, plan to arrive early (15 minutes)
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Common Interview Questions

Tell me about yourself
Can you describe a time where you have been required to perform as part of a
team? What was the situation? What part did you play in the team and what
was the outcome of the exercise?
How do you establish a working relationship with new people?
Where do you expect to be in 5 years time? What will you do if you are not
successful in gaining this position?
Why are you leaving your current position?
What do you consider your most significant accomplishment?
Why do you believe you are qualified for this position?
What do co-working say about you?
What is your philosophy towards work?
Why should we hire you?
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Common Interview Situations

Lunch/Dinner (1st/2nd interview)
Allows the company to review your communication and interpersonal skills as
well as your table manners and tact
How do you relax? Get along with others outside of the business environment?
Make sure you connect with your table, tact and personality matter
Small Group/Team interviewing (1st interview)
How are you up close and personal? Can you handle yourself with a barrage of
questions and inquiries?
Can you think on your feet? Interpersonal skills tested
Large Group/Department Interviewing (2nd interview)
Public speaking skills? Confidence?
Communication skills tested
One-on-One (1st/2nd interview)
Get more in-depth, bring along plans/ideas, discuss possible future goals
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Industry Interview DOs

Focus on how you will contribute to the company and/or team, not the converse
Sell yourself, sell your skills (knowledge, network, communication, teamwork)
Be cool, calm and confidentnot arrogant, avoid looking nervous (this is hard!)
Be sincere, considerate, act interested in the company, always remember basic
manners, attitude and body language really matters
Demonstrate that you are the best choice
Follow-up with every person you met, including associates, via e-mail and send a
signed thank you letter on cover head to the hiring manager in addition to the
thank you e-mail
Be prepared to talk about salary/benefits be ready to negotiate

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Industry Interview DONTs

Dominate the interview, talk 40%, listen 60%
Look over qualified, unfocused or banter between past experiences
Lack of interest and enthusiasm; passive or indifferent, be too modest
Criticism of past employer (no matter the situation), drama queen (difficult to
manage), trash talking
Overbearing, aggressive, know-it-all complex
Lack confidence, poise, be nervous, ill at ease
Expect too much too soon, focus on funds/$
Lack tact, courtesy, be ill-mannered
Cynical or have strong prejudices
Inability to express self clearly, poor voice, poor dictation, poor grammar
Forget to follow-up Signed cover head typed letter to hiring manager, e-mail to
everyone (24 hours post interview)
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Questions for the HR Rep/Hiring Manager

What would I be expected to accomplish in the first six months on the job?
Objectives for the first year?
How is an employee evaluated and promoted?
What is the retention rate of individuals in the position for which I am interviewing?
How would you describe your companys personality and management style?
It is company policy to promote within?
Is this a new position or a replacement?
Are there any recent or anticipated changes in structure of the organization
(M&As, downsizing)?
Can I provide you with any other information to help you in the decision making
process?
Does your company require that I sign a non-compete agreement?
How many other candidate are you considering for this position?
How soon can I expect to hear from you?
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What Things Do Employers Most Want

to Know About You?
1. Are you qualified for the position?

a. What are your greatest strengths?
b. Do you have experience in this field?
c. What do you believe you bring to this job?
d. Why should I hire you?
2.
What motivates you?

a. What motivates you to put forth your greatest effort?
b. Where do you see yourself five years from now?
c. What is more important to you the money or the job?
3. What about the negatives? (trick questions dont take the bait)
a. Why did you leave your previous job? (stay positive)
b. What did you like least about your last supervisor? (nothing, you liked your old boss)
c. What is your greatest weakness? (turn weakness into a strength)
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What Things Do Employers Most Want

to Know About You?
4. Are you a good fit?

a. What kind of people do you find it hard to work with? (tricky questions, proceed with
caution)
b. Tell me about a time when you worked as a member of a team?
c. In what kind of environment are you most comfortable?
d. Do you prefer to work alone or with others? (can work with both)
5. Do you really want this job?
a. What are you looking for in a position?
b. Who else are you interviewing with?
c. Why are you interested in this position?
d. What do you know about our company?

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Starting Your New Job The First Six Months

1. Appearance dress, hygiene Perfect the ability to look busy
2. Attitude Confidence, Flexibility, Empathy
3. Actions Be on time, Make friends, Listen, Learn, Get Busy
4. DO NOT: Miss deadlines, be tardy, contribute to gossip,
complain, work isolated/alone
5. Seek others and build a rapport
6. Be organized, resourceful and dependable
7. Common courtesy, be respectful and loyal
8. Take responsibility for success and failures
9. Be proactive, get involved, volunteer
10. Manage your time well
11. WATCH OUT FOR: Politics, humor/jokes, rumors/gossip, personal issues
12. Seek out a mentor, stick to your objectives/goals, seek out opportunities
13. New hires issue Blind leading the Blind problem
14. Seek to validate your worth quickly data/projects/contribution/deadlines
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Postdoctoral Fellowship in Industry?

Depends on where you want to go Academia or Industry?
Each company is very different publishing, culture, expectations, policies
Difficult to find, even more difficult to land Genentech, GSK, BMS, J&J
Goal oriented, results driven, focused, more applied less basic science emphasis
Advantages: Resources, Salary/Benefits, Travel, Network, Experience
How to find? Papers, Reach out to scientists, Network
Want to move back to academia? Move into an academic postdoc
Want to move onto a new career? Feel your way around to marketing, BD etc,
seek out opportunities, transition, gain the experience needed for a new job

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References that Helped Me Land a Job
Online sites
www.jobinterviewquestions.org (very good site)
www.allbusiness.com
www.sciencecareers.sciencemag.org
www.quintcareers.com
www.worktree.com
www.biospace.com
Books
Career Opportunities in Biotechnology and Drug Development by Toby Freedman,
2008
Never Eat Alone: And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship at a Time by
Keith Ferrazzi
Think BIG and Kick Ass in Business and Life by Donald Trump
Journals/Magazines
The Scientist www.the-scientist.com
Tips
Keep an interview journal, update each experience with new entries, avoid repeating
obvious mistakes
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What Can I Do Right Now That Will Help Me

Get a Job in the Next 12 Months?
Get Involved! PBG, BPC, Local

organizations, Pro bono consulting
Join online networking sites LinkedIn is by
far the best site for professionals + recruiters
Attend business/pharma events WHCC,
BIO meetings
Diversify your skills/knowledge/experiences
Business, Policy, Management (Internships)
Put yourself into leadership roles, be
proactive about your self promotion
Physical and mental health matters
exercise and eat rightat least until youve
landed the job
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Take Home Messages
People Hire People They Like Make sure you connect with your hiring
manager
People Hire People Who Show They Really Want the Job - Professional
persistence
People Hire People They Believe In Go with your gut mentality
When Networking Focus on RelationshipsAct Like a Human Being
When searching for a job Diversify as much as possible, do not limit yourself
When job hunting - Avoid falling into the desperation trap be personable when
looking for opportunities
Most important Be proactive about your exposure to possible opportunities by

getting involved time commitment and attention to details matters!

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Thank You for Attending

Good Luck!

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1

CONFIDENTIALITY DISCLOSURE STATEMENT

Approval Date: March 27th 2010

Matthew M. Seavey, Ph.D.