Switching from a faculty to an administrative position is a logical step for many academics. But the path to promotion can be full of obstacles. Whether you are considering this career move, have already taken steps towards it or aren’t quite sure what it entails, this collection of resources offers guidance on things to consider when mapping out your route within the university hierarchy.
There are many paths to a successful administrative career so choose the one that works for you. Find advice below on what the move to management may entail from those who have done it.
Once there, it can feel solitary being the one who must make the final decisions. However, if you are good at your job, you can minimise feelings of loneliness that come with moving up the career ladder. So read up here on the skills and actions that make effective managers.
Why do people choose to move to an academic administrative position – or “the dark side”, as some within higher education call it? These resources provide answers to this question, outline what skills you should draw on when stepping into leadership roles and explain how to make the transition from faculty to management while staying true to your academic roots.
To lead a team effectively requires strong empathy and communication skills, according to this group of authors, who write from experience.
Effective communication between faculty and administrators enables collaboration, saves time, prevents misunderstandings and – in some cases – defuses conflict. When the relationship breaks down, fundamental disagreements can emerge over who is responsible for what, and who makes decisions. Read guidance on how to build healthy working relationships.
Professional jealousy is just one common challenge faced by ambitious academics. Individual circumstances can result in all sorts of unique obstacles on the route to success in higher education. Hear from a range of academics on how to overcome potential difficulties in developing and supporting effective managers at an individual and institutional level.
