Nanyang Quantum Solutions

Nanyang Quantum Solutions

Group supported by the Nanyang Assistant Professorship grant awarded to Marek Gluza

Coupon for a career development consultation

Dear peer & colleague,

This is a brief overview of the context, goals, and potential outcomes for a suggested career development consultation.

1. Context

I often find that many of my valued peers and collaborators or talented students will naturally pursue goals that overlap with the objectives of my hirings but from the outset it is clear that exploring a formal offer would not be viable. Here “viable” could mean that you may be pursuing a different trajectory, a move to Singapore might not be feasible right now, or you have existing commitments. For me “viable” could mean that I will need the new member to step up to some challenges that would be illadvised for you now, which could, however, change in the future. Such known constraints would make sending an offer awkward.

Rather than doing nothing or extending an offer that would trigger a glitch, I believe there is a more productive way to navigate these situations.

2. The Idea

A 45-minute conversation to explore your career goals and how they might intersect with mine.

3. The Goals

  1. For 15 minutes you share what is your thinking, Marek first listens.
  2. We both then brainstorm for 15 minutes when Marek provides ‘yes, and’ advice. This may involve Marek sharing what he has in mind but to preclude any conflict of interest Marek would make it explicit that he is actively advertising rather than consulting.
  3. This leaves 15 minutes for a wrap up and exploring what if’s.

4. Possible Outcomes

  • Strategic alignment: I become onboarded about your strategic goals. I see you as a likely stand-out scientist in the coming 10 to 40 years and not just a potential talent to fill a 1 year postdoc position or a prospective PhD student in coming 4 years.

  • Direct support: By “onboarding” me onto your strategic goals, you ensure that I am better equipped to support your career milestones whenever I will see opportunities for that.

  • Planning for flexibility: As your constraints or my objectives evolve, we can easily reach out to see if a closer collaboration has become possible.

  • Long-term value: We establish a foundation for a unique working relationship and through this time investment play at a level beyond regular networking.

Best regards,

Marek