The Long and Winding Road of Career Development Lois Lehman-McKeeman, Ph.D. Distinguished Research Fellow Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

Career Skills and Perspectives Know thyself Scientific expertise Leadership Communication Networking Mentoring A career doesn’t happen to you—it is you

Critical Self Assessment Establish realistic goals Reassess regularly; life situations Recognize strengths and weaknesses Build on strengths Identify weaknesses and work proactively to improve Adapt to changes Human nature resists changes Self-focus

Scientific Expertise There is no substitute for scientific excellence in career development Reputation and recognition Sustained learning Integrative, cross-functional experiences Problem-solving skills Applying expertise

Communication Written and oral communication skills essential Formal: manuscripts, seminars Making complex ideas easy to understand Learn from others Seek feedback See or hear yourself present Training classes can be helpful An effective communicator is also a good listener

Leadership Vision: function and qualities of a group Present and future Decisive Clearly defined, fair Confident Without arrogance Ability to listen Approachable Role model: lead by example

Networking Engage your peers Scientifically and professionally It’s not what you know, it’s who you know Or who knows you Seek opportunities for professional involvement Ask mentor or co-worker for introductions or interactions Internet options

Mentoring Seek a mentor Learn from more experienced individual Scientific and career issues Mistakes and best approaches Honest, direct and fair feedback outside of normal performance reviews Networking opportunities Be a mentor Catalyze the development of younger scientists Build on strengths, address weaknesses as a coach

How Do I Put This All Together?? Patience Each attribute/skill develops at a different pace Commitment Identify goals and work toward them Listen and learn Role models, mentors Be engaged: professional relationships and contacts

The Long and Winding Road of Career Development—has a map Scientific Excellence Leadership Communication Networking Mentoring Know Yourself Be proactive: it’s your career