From academia to industry: where to find your industry tribe
Discover where to find and connect with industry professionals for your career transition
Hold onto your pipettes, folks! 🧪
We're back with the second most burning question in our "From academia to industry: networking lessons" series. Last week, we cracked the code for translating your PhD jargon into industry gold. Now, we're diving into the deep end of networking pools!
You asked, and boy, did we listen! The second most popular question flooding my inbox faster than a failed experiment is: "Help! I'm drowning in a sea of academic conferences. Where on earth do I find industry folks to network with?" 🌊🏊♂️Well, my brilliant buddies, it's time to swap those poster tubes for business cards (or, let's be real, LinkedIn QR codes).
We're about to embark on a treasure hunt for industry connections that'll make your academic advisor's head spin. Whether you're a biotech brainiac or a humanities hero, I've got the inside scoop on where to find your future industry tribe. So, grab your metaphorical snorkel, and let's dive into the ocean of industry networking opportunities! 🏄♀️ Your dream job might just be hiding behind that next handshake (or elbow bump). Ready to transform from conference wallflower to networking ninja? Let's go!
🤔 Help! I'm drowning in a sea of academic conferences. Where on earth do I find industry folks to network with?🔓
Let's face it, we've all been there - surrounded by posters and PowerPoints, wondering how to break into the "real world." But fear not fellow academics!
There's a whole universe of industry networking opportunities just waiting for you to dive in. 🏊♀️Here are some goldmines for your industry job search networking:
Industry conferences and trade shows (way less poster sessions, way more mingling!)
Professional associations in your dream field (they're not just for the suits!)
LinkedIn groups related to your target industry (yes, it's time to dust off that profile)
Local business networking events (free food and potential job leads? Sign me up!)
Alumni events focused on industry connections (turns out your alma mater is good for more than just nostalgia)
Pro tip: Don't be shy about reaching out to your university's career services. They often have insider info on industry events and might even hook you up with some alumni in your target field. It's like having a secret weapon in your job search arsenal!
Still, feeling unsure about your networking approach? Don't sweat it! Drop me a message on LinkedIn, or grab my tried-and-true networking template here. It's like having a cheat sheet for your next industry mixer! 🚀
🎯Remember, every industry event is a chance to flex those networking muscles you've been building. So grab your business cards (or let's be real, your LinkedIn QR code), put on your friendliest face, and get ready to mingle your way into your dream industry job!
And there you have it, networking ninjas-in-training! 🥋 You're now armed with a treasure map to industry networking goldmines. Remember, every awkward small talk is a potential breakthrough, and every business card exchanged is a step closer to your dream job. So go forth and mingle with the confidence of someone who knows the difference between a poster session and a cocktail hour!
But wait, there's more! 🎉 You've made it to the networking party, but now you're wondering, "What's next? How do I keep this networking momentum going without feeling like I'm wearing a 'Hello, I'm an Imposter' name tag?" Fear not, my brilliant friends! Next week, we're diving deep into the art of maintaining those precious industry connections without breaking into a cold sweat. Tune in for "From the first handshake to lasting connection: navigating industry relationships without the imposter syndrome hangover." We'll tackle questions like:
How often should I follow up without seeming desperate?
What do I talk about when I've run out of small talk?
Is it okay to admit I have no idea what their job actually involves?
Don't miss out on this imposter syndrome-busting, connection-maintaining extravaganza! Your future self (and your LinkedIn network) will thank you. Until then, keep networking, keep shining, and remember – even industry pros were once in your shoes. You've got this!
Sincerely,
Dr. A
🚀P.S. Got a networking win or a hilarious fail to share? Drop me a line! Your story might just feature in our next newsletter (anonymously, of course – we respect the "what happens at networking events, stays at networking events" code).
