Collaboration and leadership
This development area encompasses working effectively with others, taking and initiating action, and building positive relationships. These are key skills that support success in doctoral study and career progression.
Read on to learn more about the four categories in this development area, covering aspects such as broader professional networks, increased effectiveness within diverse teams, and establishing yourself as a trusted leader in any situation.
On this page:
Interpersonal communication
Interpersonal communication is a foundational skill. Done well, it can help you excel in making and maintaining authentic relationships with others. The ability to connect in this way is invaluable, enabling you to establish and maintain trust, collaborate successfully, lead effectively, and manage conflicts and negotiations for good outcomes.
Examples and resources
Courses, workshops and events: Three Minute Thesis; SGS Research Showcase; Doctoral Morning Tea. Working with unconscious bias.
Actions and experiences: Participate in or lead group discussion; Practice active listening; Join a club or society; Mentor or train others; Listen to and learn from good communicators; Work with a peer or co-worker to solve a problem or challenge; Learn about cultural communication differences.
Links to other resources:
- Communicating across cultures (LinkedIn course)
Leadership
As a leader, you may be spearheading your field of research, trailblazing new ventures or progressing in your established career. The influence, inspiration and efficiency good leaders achieve are built on foundational leadership skills that can be refined and adapted as you move through your doctoral studies and career.
Examples and resources
Courses, workshops and events: Academic Career Advancement Programme (ACAP); Campus Life leadership programme
Actions and experiences: Lead a community initiative; Take a leadership role for a student group; Take on complex work project; Facilitate a panel or round-table discussion; Mentor others; Undertake tutoring work; Show initiative and be solution-focused.
Links to other resources:
Teamwork
In this global marketplace, you are likely to find yourself working in teams that span cultures and continents. Working effectively in diverse teams means appreciating and holding space for ideas different to your own. This enables you to thrive in collaborative environments, increase your outputs, inspire innovation and increase your ability to achieve results.
Examples and resources
Courses, workshops and events: Velocity, Summer Lab.
Actions and experiences: Form a research collaboration; Co-author an article; Join a student club or group; Collaborate on a venture or project; Take part in group activities and challenges.
Links to other resources:
- The secrets of great teamwork
- Working in teams and groups (PDF)
Network
Building positive strategic relationships can give you access to information, ideas and opportunities, as well as the chance to build lasting and mutually beneficial personal and professional relationships. These relationships can enrich your life and work, challenge you to stay on top of industry trends, increase your visibility and help you build a trusted reputation.
Examples and resources
Courses, workshops and events: Doctoral Morning Tea; Lunch and Learn; ResBaz; SGS Research Showcase; Velocity; Summer Lab; Three Minute Thesis.
Actions and experiences: Make a strategic networking plan for your next conference or industry event; Meet peers both in and outside of your subject area; Attend the SGS Research Showcase; Introduce yourself to others with an open mind; Follow up on informal connections; Attend faculty events; Network online; Attend faculty/discipline symposia or industry events.
Links to other resources:
Finding courses, workshops and events
There are a number of places outside of Wahapū that you can browse to find development activities, for example:
- Doctoral opportunities
- Libraries and Learning Services workshops