In business schools, we teach our students to be proactive, build their personal brand, take career risks, and step outside their comfort zones. However, junior colleagues, including PhD students nearing graduation and early-career researchers, often lack sufficient guidance to apply these principles to their own careers, missing key opportunities for growth. This PDW bridges that gap by proposing five actionable strategies for academic career development: actively shaping professional identity, managing research outputs for diverse audiences, leveraging social media, excelling in teaching, and embracing leadership opportunities. Participants will explore how to craft a compelling professional identity by clearly defining their expertise. They will learn to strategically manage research outputs to balance theory, practice, and public engagement. The session will guide attendees in building an academic brand through effective use of social media to enhance visibility and connections. Teaching mentorship strategies will empower participants to cultivate classroom excellence and meet rising student expectations. Finally, attendees will identify and embrace leadership roles that allow them to expand their influence and contribute to their institutions. Through interactive activities and collaborative discussions, participants will leave with a concrete, personalized action plan to accelerate their careers and make an immediate impact in academia.
