As a busy researcher with many competing demands on your time, it can be easy to put off planning your next move. However, whatever stage of your research you are at, having clearly identified goals for the future will help you to maintain your focus and motivation. It is never too early to begin exploring options and thinking about your next steps.
You will have numerous options available to you; however you should be aware that a PhD in itself is not a guarantee of higher level entry into employment. It is up to you ensure that you gain relevant skills and experience, and that you can market yourself effectively to employers. A useful first step is to undertake a self audit and examine your skills, experience, motivations, needs and values. This will put you in a better position to choose the career that is right for you, and will give you some ideas about how you might market yourself to employers.
For face to face careers advice, you can book an appointment to speak to an advisor on our Advice Desk service. It is also a good idea to talk to your supervisor(s) or other academic and research colleagues as they may also be able to provide you with useful information or assist you with planning your career.
