Rocket Science? Networking and External Engagement for Academic Success

Seminar by Axele Giroud at Middlesex presenting the reasons why networking and external engagement constitute complementary skills

My good friend and former colleague Axèle Giroud visited me at Middlesex University on Thursday 19 May to give a presentation in the IMI (International Management and Innovation) Department's series for academic skill development. Her presentation about networking and external engagement was very well-received. My colleague Nathalie van Meurs wrote up a very nice reflective piece in her identity blog inviting academics to reflect on their values and goals. A very inspiring day altogether!

Presentation abstract

Abstract: While no two paths are similar, successful academics must possess and/or acquire a variety of essential skills and qualities. The panoply of skills is not confined to the ability to conduct good research and be an excellent teacher and communicator. In this presentation, I will focus on the importance of networking and developing one’s own academic network, as well as the importance of external engagement. Drawing on my personal experience, I will first present the reasons why I believe networking and external engagement constitute complementary skills in building and strengthening one’s research profile and in creating career opportunities for academics. I will then focus on selected opportunities and challenges associated with combining academic work with policy-oriented work.

Axèle's bio

Dr Axèle Giroud is Professor of International Business and Director of the MSc in International Business and Management with the Alliance Manchester Business School, University of Manchester; and Visiting Professor with the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. Her main research interests are multinational enterprises' economic and social impact in host countries, inter- and intra-firm linkages, technology and knowledge transfers, and international strategy. She was previously President of the Euro-Asia Management Studies Association, and worked as Senior Economic Affairs Officer for the Division on Investment and Enterprise at UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development). She has completed a number of reports for major organizations, sits on the editorial board of five academic journals and has published widely.

Other Middlesex seminars