Before you even start, it\u2019s important that you identify your strengths AND<\/u> weaknesses \u2013 this can be general things, such as communication, teamwork, or time management, as well as more course\/placement specific things, like academic writing or stats knowledge. If you\u2019ve been offered the job, it\u2019s obvious that you have valuable strengths to offer in the role \u2013 remember that<\/u>. Whilst it doesn\u2019t really matter what your specific weaknesses are, it\u2019s crucial that you understand them, and can identify where you could improve. When you first get to know your supervisor and the rest of your team, discuss what you think you are good at, and what skills you\u2019d like to develop. This takes some bravery but can be extremely rewarding \u2013 showing an understanding of your own competencies looks good to employers, and with a chat about what your goals are, your supervisor can hopefully use these strengths and weaknesses to guide your progress.<\/p>\n
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For me personally, I knew anything mathematical or stats-based would terrify me \u2013 I told my supervisor about this weakness, and she carefully selected tasks, roles and eventually full projects that would slowly push me out of my comfort zone in order to develop this self-identified weakness. You will probably find that the things you were worried about won\u2019t nearly be as bad as you expected. Despite this, I think it\u2019s good to get in front of weaknesses and face them head on with supervision, rather than waiting for them to sneak up on you.<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
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<\/a>The next piece of advice (I probably followed this rule slightly too religiously to begin with) is to say yes<\/em><\/strong> as much as possible. This will help to further push you out of your comfort zone but will also demonstrate enthusiasm \u2013 if you show that you are eager to learn and get stuck in, you might be offered the opportunity to take on even more exciting projects further down the line. Early in my placement, I agreed to take part in some training for how to use EEG machines; several months later when UCL\u2019s Provost, the head of the uni, was touring our facilities, I agreed to be involved in an EEG demonstration and so now feature in a video (only for a few seconds) celebrating a major anniversary and rebrand of our department. Agreeing to take part in things slightly outside of your comfort zone, or that initially seem too difficult, can lead to exciting opportunities that you otherwise might have missed.<\/p>\n