Frustrated with the job market? Try this

As a recruiter in the scientific sector, I speak daily to both job seekers and employers. While many quickly find their next role after initiating their search, a common trend I hear from candidates is frustration with online platforms.

The reason is their success, job websites are often the first places people turn to in their job search, and I’d bet that 100% of candidates I speak with mention them. However many candidates I talk to now rely solely on these platforms, leading them to feel that the market is tough because they’re not seeing results.

At the same time, we have an abundance of new laboratory space being built across the UK, and companies continue to complain about the lack of available scientists. How can these things coexist? The truth is, something’s not adding up.

The market isn’t as bad as it seems; what’s happening is that communication is missing. Many candidates are only relying on job boards, and this means they’re missing out on opportunities. Think of it like attending 100 networking events but standing in the corner, not interacting with anyone.

A further point is as successful as any job boards are, they were never designed for scientists. This means some nuances that make a scientific role suitable or not are simply not ‘built in’ to their functionality. The ability to suggest the best outcome for every chemist is unrealistic to expect.

70-80% of jobs are actually filled through networking. It’s all about "people knowing people" — not just applying through a job board.

If you’re not connecting directly with hiring managers or exploring your local science community, alongside job board and us at LiCa Scientific you’re missing part of the job market. Here's why a more proactive approach works:

Direct Applications: How to Approach Them

Identify Companies of Interest: Start by researching small and mid-sized labs in your region. Make a list or create an Excel spreadsheet of companies that align with your interests or expertise. If you can, take a detour to a science park and try to research with your eyes, you would be surprised how many companies are not picked up in an internet search especially new ones moving in. Reach Out with a Personalised Email: Tailor your message to each company. Be concise and specific about why you're interested in their work, and highlight how your skills could contribute to their goals.Follow Up: Don’t be discouraged after your first email. I recommend applying the "Rule of 7" — if you haven’t received a response after a few weeks, follow up. Persistence pays off. It’s common to stop most activity after two or three attempts, but being proactive sets you apart and seven is the number of contact points to build a working rapport from a cold start.  

Why Direct Applications Work

Less Competition: Applying directly means you avoid the crowd of candidates applying through large job boards. Smaller companies may have fewer applicants, so your CV is more likely to stand out.Companies are often under pressure to find the right people: If you’re a perfect fit for an open position, they’re more likely to move quickly, especially if it’s a crucial role.Efficiency: By applying directly, companies save in time and costs discovering you as a candidate. Tailored Approach: Direct applications let you customize your cover letter and CV to match the company’s needs. This increases your chances of making an impact, as your application speaks directly to their goals.

So, if you’re not getting results from job boards, it’s time to expand your approach. Don’t wait for job postings to come to you this can be very frustrating. Do be proactive in the meantime. By reaching out directly to companies, attending local networking events, and leveraging your personal connections, you’re tapping into a much larger job market and more opportunities.

Best of luck in your job search!