Career interview with established researchers in 4th year of employment

In a nutshell: What's it all about?

In the career interview, the established researcher and professor discuss follow-on solutions well in advance for when the maximum employment term ends and before the employee's departure, in compliance with the "ETH Ordinance Governing Scientific Employees".

Opportunities and possibilities

As part of the career interview, which is a legal minimum requirement, you as a manager discuss the necessary measures with the established researcher at an early stage in order to prepare the next career step without time pressure and with the greatest possible flexibility. Use your experience and knowledge to help them develop elsewhere and, where appropriate, become a useful addition to your network of contacts.

Get active: How to demonstrate good leadership

Prepare the established researcher for the new situation and support them in their next professional steps.
Give specific tips on professional prospects at this turning point in their career (networks, research fields, etc.).
Start planning early in order to keep all options open and not be limited by obstacles such as residence permits or language skills.

Self-reflection: Am I applying my social and leadership competencies effectively?

Enabling people:

Is the established researcher adequately equipped for the next career step?
Does the established researcher have a realistic view of their own capabilities?
How can I support the established researcher with suitable tools for their remaining time at ETH?

Acting responsibly:

Was my input helpful and constructive?
What alternatives and next steps did we work out together?

Building bridges:

Have I used my network to highlight possible follow-on opportunities?
What tips have I given my employee for the next steps?

In short: 5 steps to success

1. Prepare for the interview 2. Conduct the interview 3. Provide active support for the measures discussed 4. Make use of your own professional network of contacts 5. Actively monitor the topic

Areas of responsibility: Roles

Manager: prepares and conducts the interview

Employee: identifies professional strengths, makes plans based on own capabilities and preferences, responsible for own career

HR: offers support and is consulted when required

Main responsibility

Manager and employee

Tools and tips immediately available

Additional learning nuggets

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