Here are some evidence-based arguments against the belief that changing careers means you will have to earn less:

1. Transferable skills: As a researcher, you have likely developed skills that are valuable in other careers, such as critical thinking, data analysis, and project management. These skills can be applied to various industries, including healthcare, consulting, and government. Additionally, by leveraging your transferable skills, you may not hhave to start at an entry-level position in a new career. For example, if you have experience leading research teams, you may be able to transition into a leadership role in a different industry, where you can apply your leadership and research skills to drive organizational success.
2. Market demand: The job market is constantly changing, and there may be high demand for certain skills or industries that align with your experience and interests. This could result in job opportunities that offer competitive salaries.
3. Negotiation: When changing careers, it is important to do your research and negotiate your salary based on your experience and the market demand. By demonstrating your value and experience, you may be able to negotiate a salary that is comparable to or even higher than what you are currently earning.
4. Job satisfaction: While earning less money may be a concern, it is important to consider the long-term benefits of a career change. If you are not satisfied in your current career, a new career may offer increased job satisfaction and fulfillment, which can positively impact your overall well-being.

Studies have shown that career change can be a positive experience, with individuals reporting increased job satisfaction and personal fulfillment (Bimrose et al., 2012). By challenging the limiting belief that changing careers means you will earn less, you can open yourself up to new possibilities and opportunities that may lead to greater career satisfaction and success.

Resources:

• Skills audit
• Personal job satisfaction

it is important to recognise that success can be defined in different ways and that career transitions are common and can lead to personal fulfillment and success.

1. Alternative definitions of success: Success can be defined in different ways. While success in academia may be associated with publications, grants, and academic prestige, success in other careers may be defined differently. For example, success in a non-academic career may be defined by achieving a better work-life balance, making a positive impact on society, or having more job security.
2. Job satisfaction: Research has shown that job satisfaction is strongly associated with career success and personal fulfillment. If you are not happy in your current academic role, it may be worth exploring other careers that align with your values and interests. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and a sense of fulfillment, which can positively impact your overall well-being.
3. Transferable skills: As an academic, you have likely developed a range of transferable skills, such as critical thinking, writing, and communication. These skills can be applied to different industries and careers, including science communication, research consulting, and science policy. By leveraging your transferable skills, you can make a successful transition to a new career and potentially earn a similar or higher salary than what you are currently earning.
4. Career transitions are common: It is important to remember that career transitions are common and can be a positive experience. Many individuals who have made successful career transitions report feeling more fulfilled and satisfied in their new roles (e.g., O’Hara et al., 2021). By challenging the limiting belief that leaving academia means failure, you can open yourself up to new career opportunities and potentially find a more fulfilling career path.

Resources

• Skills audit
• Personal job satisfaction
• How to handle identity crisis

Here are some evidence-based arguments against this belief:

1. Sunk cost fallacy: This limiting belief is an example of the sunk cost fallacy, which is the tendency to continue investing resources into a decision based on the resources already invested, rather than the potential future benefits. It is important to recognize that the time, energy, and resources you have invested in your academic career cannot be recovered, regardless of whether you continue in academia or pursue a different career. Therefore, it is important to focus on the potential future benefits of a career change, rather than dwelling on past investments.
2. Transferable skills: As an academic, you have likely developed a range of transferable skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and project management, which can be applied to different industries and careers. By leveraging your transferable skills, you can make a successful transition to a new career and potentially earn a similar or higher salary than what you are currently earning.
3. Personal fulfillment: Pursuing a career that aligns with your values and interests can lead to personal fulfillment and increased job satisfaction. If you are not happy in your current academic role, it may be worth exploring other careers that align with your interests and passions.
4. Career longevity: While academia may offer job security in the short term, it may not be sustainable in the long term due to factors such as funding cuts and job competition. Pursuing a career that is in demand and has long-term prospects can provide greater job security and stability in the long term.
5. Career transitions are common: It is important to remember that career transitions are common and can be a positive experience. Many individuals who have made successful career transitions report feeling more fulfilled and satisfied in their new roles (e.g., O’Hara et al., 2021). By challenging the limiting belief that leaving academia means wasting past investments, you can open yourself up to new career opportunities and potentially find a more fulfilling career path.

Resources

• Skills audit

Here are some evidence-based arguments against the limiting belief that “I don’t want to work in industry because it’s unethical”:

1. Diversity in industries: There is a wide range of industries, each with its own unique culture, values, and ethics. While there may be some unethical practices in certain industries, this is not true for all industries. It is important to research and explore different industries to find one that aligns with your personal values and ethics.
2. Impactful change: By working in industry, you may have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the company’s ethical practices. As an employee, you can advocate for ethical practices and challenge unethical behavior. This can lead to meaningful change within the organization and the industry as a whole.
3. Ethical companies: There are many companies that prioritize ethics and social responsibility. By researching and targeting these companies, you can find a company that aligns with your personal values and ethics. Additionally, many companies have ethics departments or committees to ensure ethical behavior and practices are upheld.
4. Career growth and stability: Working in industry can provide greater career growth and stability than academia. Many industries have opportunities for advancement and career development, as well as job stability and benefits. This can provide greater financial stability and security in the long term.
5. Transferable skills: Many skills and experiences that you have gained in academia can be applied to a new career in industry. By leveraging your transferable skills, you can make a successful transition to a new industry and potentially earn a similar or higher salary than what you are currently earning.

Resources

• Define your values
• Self-coaching resource: Finding your true north the power of purpose
• Exploration strategies

It is important to recognise that there are many different careers and industries to explore and that your interests and passions may evolve over time. By being open to new opportunities and leveraging your transferable skills, you can find a career that provides you with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

1. Career exploration: By exploring different careers and industries, you may discover a new career that you are passionate about and enjoy even more than your current career.
2. Transferable skills: Many of the skills and experiences you have gained in your current career can be applied to a new career. For example, if you are a researcher, you may be able to transition into a career in data analysis or project management. By leveraging your transferable skills, you can find a career that is challenging and fulfilling.
3. Job satisfaction: Job satisfaction is influenced by a variety of factors, such as work-life balance, job autonomy, and opportunities for growth and development. By prioritizing these factors in your job search, you can find a career that provides you with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
4. Personal growth: Changing careers can provide an opportunity for personal growth and development. By stepping out of your comfort zone and learning new skills, you can broaden your perspective and gain new insights and experiences.
5. Career fulfillment: Ultimately, career fulfillment is subjective and varies from person to person. By aligning your career with your personal values and interests, you can find a career that provides you with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Resources

• Skills audit
• Personal job satisfaction
• Exploration strategies

Self-doubt is a normal part of the human experience:

1. Self-doubt is common: Many people experience self-doubt when faced with new challenges or opportunities. It is important to recognise that self-doubt is a normal part of the human experience and that it does not necessarily reflect your abilities or potential.
2. Growth mindset: Adopting a growth mindset can help you overcome self-doubt and build confidence. A growth mindset is the belief that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. By focusing on the process of learning and growth, rather than on innate ability, you can build your confidence and improve your skills over time.
3. Positive self-talk: Positive self-talk can help you challenge negative thoughts and build confidence. For example, instead of telling yourself “I’m not good enough,” you can reframe your thoughts to say “I may not know everything, but I am capable of learning and growing.”
4. Practice and feedback: Practice and feedback can help you build your skills and confidence. By seeking out opportunities to practice your skills and receive feedback, you can improve your performance and build confidence in your abilities.
5. Success stories: There are many success stories of people who have overcome self-doubt and achieved their goals. By reading and learning from these stories, you can gain inspiration and motivation to overcome your own self-doubt.

Resource

• Handling self-sabotage
• Former postdoc case studies
• Growth mindset
• Self-coaching: how to grow

Legal Protection: According to UK law an employer does not have to give a reference – but if they do it must be fair and accurate. Although it is not the case in every situation, even if you don’t have a constructive relationship with your PI, they are likely to be professional in what they say or decline to give you a reference. 

If your relationship with your PI has broken down and you don’t feel able to ask them for a reference consider who else knows you in this work context and could provide a reference. People to consider could be your head of department, collaborators on a similar level of seniority to your PI, or your academic mentor (if you’ve got one). You can build/prepare these relationships beyond your PI ahead of time, so you’ve got back up referees you can approach. 

This is a legitimate fear, and lack of time or overwhelming busyness can be the main challenge in exploring alternative options. So how can you overcome it? 

1. Prioritise: Make a list of the most important tasks and activities in your life and prioritise them. Consider what can be delegated or eliminated to create more time for job searching.
2. Use your time wisely: Make use of any downtime you have during the day to conduct job searches or research potential career options. For example, you can use your lunch break or commute time to review job listings or update your resume.
3. Set a schedule: Create a job search schedule that works with your existing schedule. Set aside specific blocks of time each day or week to focus on job searching/researching and stick to your schedule.
4. Use online resources: Take advantage of online job search resources such as job search websites and professional networking sites like LinkedIn to save time and make job searching more efficient.
5. Seek support: Ask friends or family for support in managing your daily responsibilities, such as childcare or household tasks, to create more time for job searching.
6. Consider professional help: Consider working with a career coach or recruiter who can help streamline your job search process and provide guidance on job searching strategies.

Resources

• Self-coaching: making time for career development

It’s natural to feel afraid of making the wrong decision when it comes to your career. Here are some tips to help you overcome this fear:

1. Research: Take the time to thoroughly research your options and gain a clear understanding of the pros and cons of each potential career path.
2. Consider your values: Think about what is important to you in a career and ensure that any potential career options align with your values.
3. Seek advice: Talk to friends, family, or a mentor for advice and guidance on making career decisions. They may have insights or perspectives that you haven’t considered.
4. Test the waters: If possible, try to gain experience in the field you are considering through internships, volunteering, or part-time work. This can help you gain a better understanding of the field and whether it is a good fit for you.
5. Accept uncertainty: Recognise that there is no such thing as a perfect decision, and that there will always be some degree of uncertainty and risk involved in making career choices.
6. Trust yourself: Ultimately, trust in your own abilities and instincts. Remember that you have made successful decisions in the past and are capable of making the right decision for yourself.

By taking these steps, you can gain more clarity and confidence in your career decision-making process and reduce your fear of making the wrong decision.

Resources

• Define your values
• Decision-making
• Crafting a new career identity
• Self-coaching: tools for positive change

Interviews can be intimidating, but there are ways to improve your skills and feel more confident. Here are some tips to help you overcome feeling “crap” at interviews:

1. Practice, practice, practice: One of the best ways to improve your interview skills is to practice answering common interview questions. You can do this by asking a friend or family member to conduct a mock interview or by practicing on your own using online resources.
2. Research the company and role: Make sure you have a clear understanding of the company and the role you are applying for. This will allow you to tailor your answers and show that you have a genuine interest in the position.
3. Prepare examples: Come up with specific examples of your experience and accomplishments that relate to the job requirements. This will help you answer questions more confidently and convincingly.
4. Dress for success: Make sure you dress appropriately for the interview and present yourself professionally. This will help you feel more confident and make a good first impression.
5. Stay positive: Try to maintain a positive attitude throughout the interview, even if you make a mistake or feel nervous. Remember that the interviewer is also human and may understand that interviews can be nerve-wracking.
6. Follow up: After the interview, send a thank-you note or email to the interviewer to show your appreciation for their time and reiterate your interest in the position.

By following these tips and practicing your interview skills, you can improve your confidence and increase your chances of success in future interviews.

Resources

• Interview questions
• Video interviews

It’s natural to worry about what others might think or say about your decision to leave academia, but ultimately, you need to do what’s best for you and your career. Here are some tips to help you overcome this fear:

1. Remember your goals: Focus on your long-term goals and why you decided to leave academia in the first place. Remind yourself of the benefits and opportunities that a career change could bring.
2. Seek support: Surround yourself with people who support and encourage your decision. Talk to friends, family, or a career counselor who can provide you with positive feedback and guidance.
3. Ignore the naysayers: Not everyone will understand or agree with your decision to leave academia, and that’s okay. Remember that their opinions do not define your worth or your success.
4. Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that change can be scary. Remind yourself that it’s okay to feel unsure or nervous, and that you are taking a brave step towards your goals.
5. Focus on the future: Instead of worrying about what others might think or say, focus on your future and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Keep your eye on your long-term goals and stay motivated to achieve them.

Remember, your career is your own, and you have the power to make the decisions that are best for you. By focusing on your goals, seeking support, and practicing self-compassion, you can overcome your fear of what others might think and take the next step towards a fulfilling career.