Sometimes I think I have imposter syndrome. Then this person shows up.

My advice for anyone in a similar situation is to go for a job in a different field.
Tell them that you reached the goals you had set for yourself in your previous field (PhD, published peer reviewed works etc). Tell them that you feel it is time for you to explore other fields and that you have an affinity with the one you’re applying in. Then tell them the most important thing you learned during your previous endeavors: you have the capacity to learn and adapt

This guy’s cover letter

Dear Hiring Team,

I would like to be considered for this role, I have a PhD and have all of the qualifications on paper. I’ve even published in the area you are hiring for, but really you should consider me as an entry level engineer. I don’t know a lot, and I get confused sometimes. But, please hire me.

Best,

• The Guy Who Applied, PhD

I feel like you all are misplaying your hands. Find contractors that work for the govt.

They can bill the govt much higher rates because you have a PhD. They don’t have to pay you the extra. You could literally tell them that. Pay me at a junior rate and keep the difference until I prove I’m worth more.

You’d be straight revenue/profit for them. and it gets your foot in the door and you start getting actual experience.

What is my greatest weakness?

I’m aware of my own gaps in knowledge. I have a PHD but the more I ponder on what I learned and the program I was involved in the more I realize what I don’t know.

My greatest strength?

My willingness to not give too much weight to what I know and focus on what I don’t know.

Hrm, ngl this username probably helps? 😜

Welcome to the teeter totter of employment. Best you can do is be 100% honest about your situation and hope they are looking for that more than a sheepskin

🤣