As the focus of career development transitions from employers to employees, building a network becomes a powerful tool for individuals to shape their professional trajectory.

  1. Set goals for your social network profile. Think about what you would like to achieve, whether it is to expand your scientific network, to build new work connections, or to reach the broader audience. Form your future messages accordingly.
  2. Choose the right platform. Most common networking platforms for scientists are X (former Twitter), LinkedIn, and ResearchGate. All of them have their audiences but professionals can find their own niche in the and other social media platforms. Basically, if you want to reach the major general public – use X; if you want to reach professionals of their industries, get in contact with business – use LinkedIn; if you want to reach academics – use ResearchGate.
  3. Build a powerful online presence. In academia, your personal brand is more than just your qualifications. It encompasses your research focus, your teaching style, your values as a scholar, and how you communicate these aspects. Similar to a university's reputation, your personal brand reflects your strengths, intellectual passions, and the unique contributions you offer to the field. This brand is cultivated through every interaction, from conference presentations and publications to your online presence and teaching philosophy. Remember, potential collaborators and students can discover your brand not only through your CV but also through search engine results. Crafting a strong personal brand in academia offers a double benefit. Firstly, it positions you as a recognized expert in your field, attracting collaborators, research opportunities, and potential funding. Secondly, it allows you to connect with and inspire students who resonate with your research interests and teaching style, ultimately shaping the next generation of academics.

Let’s see two examples of academics with strong personal brands that highlight the importance of soft skills in STEM fields on green transition:

  • Jane Goodall is a pioneering primatologist known for her lifelong study of chimpanzees. Her Soft Skills are beyond scientific expertise. She is a tireless advocate for animal conservation and environmental protection. Her leadership skills, empathy for animals, and ability to connect with diverse audiences are crucial for raising awareness and inspiring action on environmental issues to move towards green transition by maintaining the ecosystems.
  • Katharine Hayhoe is an Atmospheric scientist known for her clear and engaging communication of climate change science. She excels in science communication and storytelling. She uses empathy and a solutions-oriented approach to connect with diverse audiences, fostering understanding and action on climate change.
teamwork