Researchers in popular culture have not only kicked arse and saved the world but have also worn brilliant cardigans Inspired by the 20th anniversary of the cultural touchstone that is…
Consultancy reflections: An interview with Rob Johnson, founder of Research Consulting, Part 2
Our in-depth interview with full time consultant and entrepreneur, Rob Johnson continues. Last week we focused on the early days of creating a consultancy company. This week, we learn more…
Before you say Yes: 3 questions to ask yourself (And I’m not talking about marriage!)
Some academics do seem to be wedded to their research, but let’s leave the marriage metaphors aside. This post is all about choosing which academic work commitments you say ‘yes’…
What I learned when I took on too much: I am not a PhD superhero
As a PhD student with high ambitions and an equally high mortgage payment, I have tendency to say ‘yes’ to most things and up until now it has served me well. By saying ‘yes’ and having the to confidence to say ‘I can do that’, I have learnt so many new things and met some wonderful new people. I’ve travelled the country (next stop, the world!) and stood up to many fears. Because of this I am making connections – people know who I am and what I can do. I am building my network and my skill set, the foundation of a successful career, right?
But what good is a network if I don’t have the time or energy to nurture it? What if people know what I can do, but I can’t actually do it because I am doing too many other things? My drive to be a PhD superhero was becoming counterintuitive […]
‘I’m busy’ part 2: it’s a problem
Last week, I wrote about two positive types of busy, but this week I am reflecting on the kind of “busy” that can really lead to problems. How do you…
‘I’m busy’ part 1: good kinds of busy
Following on from Kathy’s recent post on why you might have to be brave to say ‘no’ sometimes, I want to reflect a bit on busy-ness and how it can…
Saying No: Why it’s important to be brave
As we begin 2017, perhaps some of you will have taken a seasonal break from your work. Or perhaps you worked right through: it can be hard to take time…
Why researchers might want a way out of precarity
This year has seen a lot of focus in the press on issues of precariousness in employment for early career researchers, many of whom are seeking a way out of…
Tips and tricks for managing new clients as an academic consultant (Part 1 of 2)
Managing clients is a key component of successful academic consultancy. In the first of two posts this week, our very own experienced consultant Andrew Clappison sets out a number of pointers to help you avoid common pitfalls on managing new client relationships […]
Working at home: where does all the time go? 5 hazards to watch out for!
I work from home full time and I’m very happy with the arrangement, but there are some pitfalls. Time flies so quickly, even when you have the luxury of an empty…