In the course of their careers, PhD holders — like most professionals in senior roles — will face numerous choices in order to progress. Having a career plan is invaluable in guiding those choices, acting strategically and seizing opportunities, while ensuring a coherent and fulfilling career path.
This workshop offers guidance on building a career plan and introduces the key steps in effective self-reflection.
Programme
Methods and concepts
- Introduction to the four key steps in building a career plan. Presentation of methods for analysing your career path and gaining a clearer understanding of your skills and preferences
- The importance of identifying your aspirations and values
- The crucial role of networking in defining a motivating plan
- The components of a realistic action plan
Practical exercise
- Identifying the common thread running through your career path using an analysis grid
- Complete a practical exercise to identify your professional values
- Build an action plan to continue your reflection and exploration
Learning outcomes
- Understand the importance of the career plan as a tool for strategically managing your career
- Step back and reflect on your career path and research experience in order to define a career plan that aligns with your aspirations
- Clearly articulate your aspirations, motivations and values
- Define a realistic action plan to continue exploring and building your career plan
Pedagogical approach
Active learning approach:
- Short methodological presentations alternating with exercises applied immediately
- Individual and small-group work, with strong emphasis on collective sharing and structured discussion between participants
Assessment & follow-up
- Formative assessment during the practical exercises (trainer and peer feedback), or a skills quiz
- Post-session satisfaction survey
