XClose

IOE - Faculty of Education and Society

Home
Menu

How do I get that next job? Start with these steps! | Academia et al: S03E03

23 July 2024

In this episode, hosts Dr Keri Wong and Dr Alina Pelikh dive into the particular and sometimes daunting process of job interviews within academia.

Keri Wong and Alina Pelikh in front of a yellow triangle. Title says ‘PhD from A to Z’: What can I do to maximise my PhD journey?.

Dr Keri Wong, Associate Professor of Developmental Psychology and Dr Alina Pelikh, Senior Research Fellow in Demography

Let's face it, while we all aim to secure job interviews, the process itself can be a nerve-wracking experience. Keri and Alina share their personal experiences and insights, having been on both sides of the interview table.

What are the key differences between interviewing for academic positions and industry roles? In a world where remote interviews are becoming more common, how can you convey your enthusiasm and strengths effectively? Keri and Alina break down what you can expect in each scenario and offer practical tips for both formats to help  their fellow early career academics shine.

We also asked our listeners to send in their most awkward interview questions. Join us for an enlightening discussion - your dream job might be just an interview away!

Finally, stay connected with the Academia et al. podcast series for future episodes filled with insights and tips for navigating the academic landscape. Subscribe, leave us a review, and share with your colleagues!

SoundCloud Widget Placeholderhttps://soundcloud.com/ioelondon/how-do-i-get-that-next-job-start-with-t...

 

You can also listen to the podcast on:

You can also read the podcast episode transcript.

What interview questions have surprised you, or are the most ridiculous?

Prior to this episode we reached out to our community of academics. Here’s what they said:

  • Tell me about an interesting scientific finding you read about recently (not related to your own subject). Similar to: Tell me what you’re reading these days (a friend was asked by a sociologist).
  • Teach us a complex concept in two minutes. Pretend we are undergrads with little background knowledge.
  • What is your greatest weakness? (They just want you to talk about how you turned your weakness into strength).
  • What do you bring to the table? (Alina: I answered “Joy and positive attitude”. Everyone laughed. I got the job.)
  • Questions about how to deal with difficult team members – that doesn't really set good expectations!
  • I was asked if I could explain how it is possible to feel lonely in a crowd, relevant to the post but it took me by surprise.
  • If you’re interviewing straight after your PhD, the panel will be testing how much of your PhD is you and how much of it is your supervisor. Be prepared for detailed questions on methodology, coding, who wrote up which parts.

 

Links