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Recently there has been growing interest in an alternate business model, social enterprise. This is a different way of doing business that trades for a social purpose whereby the social or environmental aims of the business are of equal importance to its commercial activities. Consequently the skills required for running a successful social enterprise combine those typical of enterprise activities generally with a strong motivation and passion for social improvement. We have found that this aspect is useful in engaging researchers because at the heart of social enterprise is a strong commitment to achieving a better society, a motivation that resonates with that which typically drives the research agenda and researchers themselves. This collaborative project with Vitae has been successful in developing written and associated video materials to explore enterprise skills with early career researchers. There are plans to disseminate the resources via Vitae as part of the ongoing move to produce development resources that are freely available to HEIs as part of the research skills development agenda, this is likely to be in January 2011.

This interactive workshop will allow researchers to gain a better understanding of themselves and others, allowing them to reflect upon what is important to them in their life and help with career decision making. Benefits include improved skills in managing change, working effectively in teams, resolving conflict, career decision making and even improved communication within personal relationships. Researchers will be required to complete an on-line questionnaire before attending the session.

This session takes participants through the whole process of identifying opportunities outside the academic world and then step by step through the recruitment process. This includes how to produce a top quality non- academic CV and complete applications forms well, by translating their experience, education and achievements from the academic world to the language of industry, business and commerce. They finish by looking at how to prepare for and excel at interview.

This series of podcasts were recorded with 4 university administrative staff all of whon have completed a PhD and some also postdoctoral research in academia before moving into a non-academic role in higher education.

Research staff and students have access to specialist careers guidance, information and training services provided by the Centre for Career Development in collaboration with the Graduate School and Professional Development.

A 3 hour ‘simulated’ workshop based on participants taking part in two commonly used assessment centre exercises, used by non-academic employers as part of their graduate selection. There will be a group activity and an individual presentation with Careers Advisers observing and providing individual assessment and feedback

This session will look at the types of questions asked on application forms, why employers want this information, how can you translate your academic experience into desirable skills and how you can stand out from the other applicants