August 8, 2023
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5 min read
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Career
Embarking on a career journey after completing a PhD is a unique and transformative experience that demands insight, guidance, and a compass for navigating uncharted waters. In recognition of this crucial phase, we are delighted to present a compilation that brings together the perspectives of three esteemed authors, each of whom has meticulously crafted books tailored to assist and empower those who hold a coveted PhD.
By equipping PhD holders with the tools they need to excel in various career trajectories, these authors are shaping a new narrative about the potential of post-PhD life. Their books serve as beacons of hope, providing practical advice and illuminating the paths that lie ahead.
Sarah Blackford
Author of Career Planning for Research Bioscientists
Why is your book important?
I was concerned recently that my book is now a bit out of date, so on its 10th anniversary I asked careers advisers on LinkedIn what they thought and the responses I received were reassuringly positive: ”One of my favourite go-to careers books. It’s always within reach of my keyboard”;“We use your book a lot, and it really is a valuable tool for inspiration and insights”; “Your book has helped so many people and I’m so happy for you and your continued success”.
What drove you to write the book?
I was chatting with the marketing manager of Blackwell publishing (nowWiley) at a scientific meeting in Finland, where I was running a career workshop for junior researchers in the side-programme. Quite casually I said, “One day I’ll put all of this in a book”. Be careful what you say out loud … one month later, I received an email from the commissioning editor inviting me to write the book! How could I refuse? It was one of the hardest things I’ve done in my life; I was in a full-time job and it took me5 years before it was published in 2013. When it started to fly off the shelves, it made me realise it had all been worth it!
What difference in readers' lives do you hope to create with your book?
Many doctoral and postdoctoral researchers can’t attend career workshops or don’t have access to individual coaching. My aim in writing my book was to provide support to them from afar, regardless of their career ambitions. By including topics ranging from self-awareness and job seeking, through to CVs and interview technique, including 20 career narratives, I aimed to make the book as relevant as possible to every one at all stages of their career planning.
One word defining your book:
“Wake-up call”Many people, metaphorically, ‘sleep walk’ through their careers. This book aims to wake them up and take control of their careers.
Matteo Tardelli, PhD
Author of Beyond Academia: Stories and Strategies for PhDs Making the Leap to Industry
Beyond Academia is important because it guides individuals transitioning from academia to industry, addressing the challenges and opportunities they face in a rapidly changing job market.
I wrote Beyond Academia to help individuals leaving academia navigate their post-academic journey successfully, sharing insights and strategies to empower them in finding fulfilling careers.
I hope to make a positive impact on readers' lives by providing practical advice and inspiration, enabling them to see the value of their academic skills and confidently pursue non-academic paths.
Empowering.
Tina Persson, PhD
It is a book covering the most important topics you need to know when transitioning from academia to a career beyond the academic context. It’s written with the perspective of what every PhD needs to know to be successful in their job search strategy. The book is easy to read, involving plenty of hands-on tips and tricks. It takes the reader on a journey, helping them manage their emotions, learn about hidden jobs, understand the importance of knowing their value, and translate their academic skill set into terminology that companies understand and value. I hope this book inspires PhDs to enjoy the ride!
When I was an unemployed Assistant Professor, desperately trying to pivot from my 20-year-long career to a field beyond academia, I realized how challenging it was. I felt isolated and greatly misunderstood. About 15 years ago, there were no recruiters, coaches, or books available to support me as an Assistant Professor in my career development. However, after I eventually secured my first job as a recruiter and gained valuable experience, I recognized a massive need for coaches, career consultancies, and literature tailored to the needs of academic professionals.
It was around 8 years ago that I decided to turn my hidden dream into reality by starting my own company, Passage2Pro. At that point, I also made the decision to write a book, sharing the lessons I learned based on my personal journey. I wanted to create a resource that could have made my life easier during my time as an unemployed Assistant Professor, navigating the challenging career transition. That's why you'll find chapters in the book like "Emotional Management during your Job Search," "Finding Hidden Jobs," and "Networking for Introverts." As a PhD, I know we often rely heavily on technology, but career development involves so much more—such as personal growth, mindset, attitude, learning from failure, and gaining a deeper understanding of our drives, motivations, and natural interests
I hope to make the readers' lives easier than mine was when I started my own transition journey. My goal was to write a short and concise book covering everything necessary in less than 150 pages. I made a promise to myself that, if possible, I would assist PhDs and academically trained professionals so they don't have to make the same mistakes I did. I wanted to help them learn the most important skills for a successful career transition. Ultimately, the job search is about having a well-defined strategy, taking action, maintaining a GRIT attitude, and understanding what companies value in a candidate.
Additionally, I aimed to share the critical skills that PhDs need to learn for a faster and smoother journey, drawing from my experiences working in the staffing industry as a recruiter and consultant manager. Personally, I faced challenges in being coachable, and it made it very difficult for others to help me. Therefore, I emphasize the importance of being coachable, as it can significantly speed up one's job search.
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