Mariano A. Loza-Coll, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla, California: ...There are ways for researchers to sell themselves — but they shouldn't overdo it...
Universal sales principles:
- be realistic and make sure that your product fits the needs of your target audience
- a sales meeting is a conversation
- buyers need to know how they will put you, the product, to use
...Think of yourself as a new printer. Are you 'upgradable'? Your prospective employers might want to know how easily you can scale your lab up or down, or move it between floors or buildings if necessary. They may also appreciate knowing that you're ready to lecture on several subjects at a moment's notice. Do you come with a 'service contract'? Try to demonstrate that you can count on a network of collaborators in case of problems. What are your 'consumables'? If your research involves the use of unconventional materials, make sure that you show that you have thought carefully about how to secure them. Do you come with 'pre-installed drivers'? Be honest about what you need to get started. It's best to tell your department about the particle accelerator you'll need in your basement before the fleet of moving trucks arrives...
This article was originally published in the journal Nature.
