The PhD Employability Accelerator
A 13-week structured programme designed to accelerate the employability skills of the global PhD community. Designed for early careerists and individual contributors, this program sharpens core business understanding, dives into effective day-to-day leadership and execution, examines self-leadership, and provides a robust network of peers and experts.
Timing & Delivery.
Participants will learn through a variety of virtual formats including self-paced digital modules and live expert-led webinars exploring leadership topics
The time commitment is 14 hours over three months
Learning Objectives
Sharpen core business understanding in areas like online business, marketing, operations, strategy, marketing, and finance that can be applied across industries and contexts
Learn critical growth mindsets and leadership approaches in preparation for leading teams and larger projects and initiatives
Hone relationship building skills and establish network of peers across industries and functional groups for continuous engagement and learning.
Networking.
Join the PhD Leadership ecosystem of webinars, roundtables, and other executive events
Learn from peers and faculty, gain mentors and role models to help advance skills and credibility as leaders
The time commitment is 14 hours over three months
Week 1: Introduction to the PhD Employability Accelerator: The Role of the Deep Subject Matter Expert
Uncover how your in-depth knowledge can give you an edge in the job market, and learn to leverage your PhD specialisation to stand out in a competitive environment.
Week 2: Workplace Transition: Understanding the Needs of the Market
This module guides you through the process of transitioning from academia to the workplace, focusing on understanding market needs and aligning your academic expertise with them.
Week 3: Marketing & Branding – Positioning Your Unique PhD Experience in the Workplace
Develop a strong personal brand that highlights your expertise, making you a sought-after professional in your field.
Week 4: Developing a Portfolio Career
Learn how to build a diverse career portfolio that combines various interests, skills, and job roles, maximizing the versatility and applicability of your PhD.
Week 5: CVs & Marketing: Crafting a CV Brings Your Expertise to Life
Master the process of creating a compelling, industry-ready CV that effectively communicates your research, skills, and achievements.
Week 6: Interview Best Practice in the Age of AI & Algorithmic Selection
Understand how AI-driven hiring processes work and develop winning interview strategies to stand out in competitive job markets.
Week 7: Collaboration, Leadership & Managing Upwards
Build essential leadership and teamwork skills, learning how to work effectively with colleagues, managers, and stakeholders.
Week 8: Developing & Managing Teams
Gain practical insights into team leadership, project management, and fostering a high-performing work environment.
Week 9: Career Pivoting – Aligning Your PhD with Different Industries
Discover how to reposition your academic background for diverse industries, from technology to consulting and beyond.
Week 10: Career Innovation Workshop – Working Backwards
Learn a strategic, goal-oriented approach to career planning by envisioning your ideal role and mapping out actionable steps to achieve it.
Week 11: Freelancing & Self-Employment – Building a Job-Ready Portfolio & a Business
Explore the fundamentals of freelancing, entrepreneurship, and monetizing your expertise beyond traditional employment.
Week 12: Becoming a public speaker: Using your PhD for career development and freelance work.
Develop public speaking skills to establish yourself as an industry thought leader and open new career opportunities.
Week 13: Strategies to Improve Your Professional Relationships & Personal Effectiveness
Strengthen your networking, communication, and time-management skills to enhance career growth and workplace success.