Biotech Recruiting in 2021

Things have changed; they've gone digital. According to CNBC [1], as early as May 2020, 84% of recruiters had shifted how they conducted searches and more than half began using social media to connect more than ever before.

Of course, as recruiters with more than 50 years of experience between us, we could've told you that. The move to online recruiting was already happening, COVID just kicked it into high gear.

We've placed thousands of candidates nationwide throughout the Biotech and Pharma industry, and we've seen major fluctuations in the overall job market (2008 jumps to mind). We can assure  you there are still are jobs out there.

Here are some trends we’ve seen—that aren’t going anywhere, anytime soon:

The Move to Virtual:

  • It’s convenient: It's easier to coordinate multiple people's schedules in panel interviews without the hassle of coordinating travel plans.

  • It’s efficient: It’s safe for both current employees and prospective employees.

  • It yields results: People are getting hired, on-boarding, and launching new products virtually.

The Importance of Networking

  • “Your network is your net worth.” Statistically speaking, employers are more likely to review a resume sent by a referral than simply submitted online with no connection.

  • Existing relationships have proven key in hard to penetrate accounts, especially now that you can't hop a flight and have an in-person lunch.

Some things will never change. Companies need the best candidate for the job. We define the best not by a series of line items, but the impact they can make for your company. We advise all companies to conduct searches with this mentality, and all candidates to highlight where they’d add value. That is timeless.