Stop using objective statements! And join me next week for a live AMA!

plus the usual resource treasure trove!

Author

Carina Clingman
August 30, 2024

In partnership with

Labor Day weekend is here… how did that happen? I hope you have great plans to enjoy the long weekend. Here’s some light reading to boost your career this weekend.

In today’s email:

🎧👇Listen: Here’s a throwback episode that is ESSENTIAL listening if you’re on the job market. Do you know your job search metrics? I cover them all in this episode so you know if you’re sending too many applications, getting enough interviews, and progressing through your search at a good rate.

AROUND THE COMMUNITY

Conversations

Last week, we launched a new job opportunities board in the community! You can only access that link if you’ve joined the Free Biotech Career Development Community, so do that first if you’re new! Anyone is welcome to post opportunities there, as long as you have a contact for the job. For example, I posted a few jobs and linked the LinkedIn postings with the person I know (the recruiter or hiring manager) so that you can reach out directly. Enjoy!

Upcoming Events:

🎧👇Listen: Building Biotechs is on vacation this week, so here’s a throwback episode we loved! Catharine Smith LOVES her career in non-profit. She talks about getting into biotech-adjacent non-profit work, the benefits, and why you might consider it!

NOTES FROM CARINA

Swap Your Objective for a Headline: The Resume Refresh Biotech Job Seekers Need

So, why choose a headline over an objective statement? Simple. Headlines are direct, powerful, and focused on what you can offer to the employer, not just what you want from them. A well-crafted headline sets the tone for the rest of your resume, helping recruiters and hiring managers immediately see you as the right fit for the job. It’s about making a strong first impression that sticks, rather than a long generic statement that never gets read.

Crafting a Strong Headline: Your Resume's Opening Act

First impressions matter, and the headline of your resume is your opening act. This isn't the place for a vague objective statement. Instead, craft a headline that uses language from the job description and possibly includes the job title. Your headline should be a powerful, concise statement that sums up your expertise and aligns with the job you're aiming for. This is your personal tagline that needs to grab the hiring manager’s attention and make them want to read more.

Beyond the Headline: Ensuring the Rest of Your Resume Delivers

After nailing the headline, every section of your resume should continue to sell your candidacy. This means showcasing relevant skills and experiences and highlighting achievements with quantifiable results. Don't just list every task you've ever handled. Instead, focus on specific accomplishments that relate to the job and support your headline. Consistency is key here. Each part of your resume should reinforce what your headline promises, creating a cohesive and compelling narrative that makes your application stand out.

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RESOURCES

THINGS WE’RE FOLLOWING

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The federal judge’s decision Tuesday said the Federal Trade Commission exceeded its statutory authority in implementing a final rule aimed at restricting noncompete clauses.

Texas Life Sciences Redevelopment Project Moves Closer to Reality

In Texas, the Plano City Council approved a development agreement that supports a planned project that would bring over 3 million square feet of life sciences space to the area.

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