The first job in the industry is difficult to get. Once you have work experience in the industry, it is tremendously easier to go from being employed to another place of employment. If you have social media (LinkedIn) presence and good branding, it is likely that companies will approach YOU with job opportunities while you are already employed.

But, that first job is hard. Where do you start? If you are still in school, doing a Ph.D., or postdoc, you already have so many commitments, never-ending research, and possibly a lack of confidence…

I got my first job in the industry two years ago, going from academia to engineering consulting. I was a new Ph.D. graduating from Ohio State University and I got a referral for this job.

That is how it works, and the method I would recommend when trying to land a job offer is to get a referral.

Generate referrals, that is, have an employee at the company refer you for a position in the same company.

You get a job, they get a referral bonus.

Getting a job may seem daunting, but you absolutely deserve a good role, pay, and benefits. Don’t let academia tell you otherwise. Starting with a referral, the chances of getting interviews and ending up with an offer is much better. When you start your new job, you will learn everything and do fantastic.

You CAN do this. You just need a referral.

But maybe you don’t know how to get started, like, what do you mean by just get a referral, Oindree, you ask. Right, there is no “just” about this because getting a referral comes from a deep and meaningful place. It starts with your friends.

Do you remember who your friends are?

If you don’t, now is the time to remember. Take out a piece of paper and pen and start writing down the names of people who you consider to be your friends. Doing this activity is immensely important to everything: better mental health, improved quality of life, and a brighter future.

Friends can help you feel unstuck. Your friends, whomever they are, care about you. Don’t underestimate them and the fact that they care. Strangers don’t care, no matter how cool they might be.

Don’t be too cool to see your friends and spend time with them.

Do your friends know nothing about what you do or your research?

First of all, fix that, explain to them what you do. Briefly!

Secondly, does not matter. Friends care, that is what matters. Maybe a friend’s friend will know about an opportunity that would be good for you.

Leverage your broader network to land your first job in the industry.

There is no need to try and get a job all alone. It is what you do and who you know that affects where you end up.

Let me know what you are struggling with right now in the comments below.