Hays US Blog

This will be a pivotal moment for many people’s career. No matter where you find yourself during this shake-up, there are several steps you can take that will help you continue to thrive.

Five ways to boost your career prospects in the post-COVID life sciences industry

1. Take control and be proactive. Research the changes that are taking place in your company and the industry as a whole. Speak with your manager or leadership team about how internal activities may be changing or pivoting as a result of the pandemic, and think about how your unique skillset can support the transition. Put yourself forward for a change in role or new assignments, to align with your mutual aspirations.

2. Look for innovation. Your skillset will develop at an accelerated pace over the next 18 months if your company is innovating towards the new normal. This will affect your market value for potentially the rest of your career. Think creatively about how you might spearhead innovation within your organization and help the business overcome new challenges. If your company isn’t innovating, consider moving to one that is.

3. Upskill across the board. Ensure you’re proficient in using remote and virtual tech and prepare yourself for the hybrid world of work. Take advantage of the explosion in online courses, to learn new technologies that will assist in developing your virtual work muscles. Also remember to keep yourself relevant by working on soft skills for the next era of work; for example, critical thinking, growth mindset and emotional intelligence. Don’t forget to document new skills you’ve learned during the crisis – you may want to add these to your resume and LinkedIn profile.

4. Reflect on your career options. One thing most of us have been lucky enough to enjoy during the lockdown has been a little more time. This is the perfect opportunity to take a good look at where you are in your career trajectory, and perhaps answer a few questions like, am I happy in my current position? Am I utilizing my skills? Am I heading in the right direction or do I need to change course? This is also a good time to update your resume, including recent experience and quantifiable results generated.

5. Learn how to present well in remote interviews. Previously logistically daunting interview processes are now taking place without a flight booked or a single mile travelled. But computer-to-computer is not the same as face-to-face and you need to make sure you’re up to speed with the etiquette and technicalities of remote interviews. You can find out how to nail your remote interview here.

The world has undoubtedly changed forever and all industries will take time to adapt to the new, post-COVID landscape. However, our sector is not only robust enough to weather the economic storm but, as part of the solution, has been thrown into the global spotlight on a massive scale. We must embrace the great opportunities this will create.

Looking for an opportunity within Life Sciences?

Connect with Greg Donatelli, Senior Director of Life Sciences, Hays U.S.