How to Answer “Why Are You Moving Away From Academia to Industry?” in an Interview

Why do employers ask about a move from academia to industry?

Employers may ask about a move from academia to industry for a few reasons. Firstly, they may be curious about your motivations for making this transition. They may also want to understand your skill set and how it applies to their industry. Additionally, they may be interested in understanding any gaps in your work experience and how you plan to bridge them.

How to answer the question

When answering this question, it is important to emphasize your skills and how they align with the role you are applying for. You can also highlight any relevant industry experience you may have, such as internships or projects. It can be helpful to mention any personal or professional goals that led you to consider a move from academia to industry. It is important to be honest and authentic in your answer, but also to focus on the positive aspects of your decision. Avoid making negative comments about your previous experience in academia or your reasons for leaving. Instead, focus on the opportunities and challenges that you are excited about in the industry.

How to prepare for the question

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for this question:

1. Reflect on your motivations for making the transition from academia to industry. What are your long-term career goals and how does a role in industry align with these goals?
2. Consider any relevant industry experience you have, such as internships or projects. How have these experiences prepared you for a career in industry?
3. Think about the skills and knowledge you have gained in academia that are transferable to industry. How can you communicate the value of these skills to an employer?
4. Prepare specific examples to illustrate your points. For example, you could discuss a research project you worked on in academia that required you to apply industry-specific skills or technologies.

Common Mistakes

1. Focusing on negative experiences in academia It is important to avoid making negative comments about your previous experience in academia or your reasons for leaving. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of your decision and the opportunities and challenges that you are excited about in the industry. 2. Not emphasizing transferable skills and relevant experience Employers will be interested in understanding how your skills and experience apply to the industry role you are applying for. Be sure to highlight any relevant industry experience you may have, such as internships or projects, and emphasize the transferable skills you have gained in academia. 3. Not having a clear understanding of your motivations and goals It is important to have a clear understanding of your motivations for making the transition from academia to industry and how this aligns with your long-term career goals. Be prepared to discuss these motivations and goals in your answer. 4. Not showcasing enthusiasm for the industry Employers want to hire candidates who are enthusiastic about the industry and the role they are applying for. Be sure to show your enthusiasm for the industry and the opportunities it presents in your answer.

Sample Answers

1. "I have always been interested in the practical application of my research and skills, and I believe that a career in industry will allow me to do this. I am excited about the opportunity to work on real-world problems and make a tangible impact in my field. Additionally, I am interested in exploring new challenges and opportunities that a career in industry can offer."


2. "I have always been interested in using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in the world. While I have enjoyed my time in academia, I believe that a career in industry will allow me to do this on a larger scale. I am excited about the opportunity to work on projects and problems that have a direct impact on people's lives, and I believe that my skills and experience are well-suited to a career in industry."


3. "I have always been interested in the intersection of science and technology, and I believe that a career in industry will allow me to explore this intersection more fully. I have gained valuable skills and knowledge through my academic research and coursework, and I am excited about the opportunity to apply these skills in a practical setting. Additionally, I am interested in the opportunity to work on more diverse and dynamic projects in industry, and I believe that this will be a great opportunity for me to grow and learn."