It's a Game, Not a Formula
How to Succeed as a Scientist Working in the Private Sector
If you want to be successful, you need to understand the game
Scientists tend to look for the 'right way' to do things. We are used to chasing after formulas and theories that describe the behavior of the universe, and this expectation that there is a 'right answer' tends to permeate much of what we do.
But the world outside the controlled environment of the science lab doesn't work that way. The most successful scientists who enter the private sector approach their work as if it were a game, with rules that need to be followed but with no clear 'right way' to do things. They take risks, make decisions quickly, and don't overthink things.
This book presents valuable insights from experienced and successful industry PhD scientists who have shared their valuable stories to help you succeed in the private sector and build that rewarding career you are seeking.
Praise for It's a Game, not a Formula:
“I read this book right before I started a new position in the private sector, and it has been really helpful for me to see the challenges from new perspective. I couldn’t enjoy this new environment if I wouldn’t have read this book.”
- Banafshe Zakeri, PhD, Scientific Associate, HySON Research Institute
“Exceptionally well done. I wish I would have had this when I was just getting out of grad school. Also, highly recommended reading for anyone Director-level, C-suite, managerial, or entrepreneurial that has PhD scientists on their teams.”
- Kent Lindquist, PhD, MBA, CTO Boulder Real Time Technologies
Can you win at the private sector game?
We hear a lot about the 'transferrable skills' that will make you employable in industry. And these are very important.
But no one tells you that what matters most is that you have the right working habits!
Habits such as these:
Help the company make money
Figure out what matters and what doesn't
Be effective, not smart!
Decide quickly with limited data
Persuade others to follow you
Here's what you will find inside:
Chapter 1: Introduction
What is the private-sector game?
Chapter 2: The Rules of the private-sector game
How is working in industry different than academia?
Chapter 3: PhD Stereotypes
The challenges for PhDs in industry
The PhD stereotypes in industry
Chapter 4: The private-sector playbook
Critical habits for success in the private sector
Chapter 5: The R&D mindsets
How does the versatile and influential scientist think and act?
Chapter 6: Startups – The ultimate game!
Stories from successful scientist-entrepreneurs to guide you
Chapter 7: Your career is a game
5 pro-tips for designing your own awesome career
Interviewee bios