Tips for Introverted Laboratory Job Seekers

You’re a skilled and introverted laboratory professional seeking a new job. You know you have a lot to offer at the right workplace, but you have to get hired first.

Getting a new job can be a complicated process, but your introversion doesn’t have to make it harder. Read these tips for introverted laboratory job seekers.

Promote Your Introversion as a Strength

Society often undervalues introverts. In many cases, it’s easy to see how the characteristics of extroverted people benefit workplaces. But introverts have traits uniquely suited for many laboratory positions, making it easier for you to self-promote.

Introverts tend to share these attributes:

• They work well independently and don’t need to be micromanaged
• They are great listeners
• They are self-starters and self-motivated
• They try to figure out solutions before going to someone else for help
• They think things through before speaking

If you have any of these traits, promote them as strengths. Highlight these characteristics in your resume and use them as answers in interview questions. Hiring managers and interviewers will see how your steadfast work ethic and peaceful nature can benefit their laboratory.

Consider a Recruiting Service

The second tip for introverted laboratory job seekers is that working with a recruiter can benefit you in your job search. Dedicated lab staffing agencies partner with labs and develop a deep understanding of these organizations. One of the best ways labs optimize their hiring processes is by outsourcing their recruiting.

This means that by going through a lab recruiting firm, you’ll have access to labs using streamlined processes to find the best candidates to fill positions. Using a recruiting service can minimize how long you spend searching for a job.

Working with an excellent recruiter makes you more than just a number. Your recruiter wants to help you find a position that suits you; they know the laboratory job landscape and will get to know you. This human component makes it easier for you to find a job you want, including seasonal and traveling work.

Practice for the Interview

Whether you’re getting ready for your first interview or prepping for further down the line, you can train yourself for a smoother interview. Research what employers want from candidates. Write down common interview questions. Then, strengthen your resume to emphasize your qualifications.

After this, do mock interviews. You can work with a professional career counselor, practice by yourself, or get help from friends or family. Ask and answer the common interview questions aloud, even if this means talking to yourself.

Don’t worry about giving perfect answers. Make note of what you want to improve. You might want to speak more smoothly or remember to bring up specific points. Practice giving your answers, then go through the mock interview for those questions again.

You can also record your mock interview on your smartphone. When you watch the footage, find ways you can improve your eye contact, body language, or answers. Once again, don’t be hypercritical of yourself. Instead, stay focused on how your incremental improvements can do wonders for your interview.