From Academic Writing to Thought Leadership: Unlocking the Real Power of Your Dissertation.

The vast majority of researchers have dedicated years of their life to writing a dissertation, and few are even vaguely aware of the full value their research may have in the future. Historically, a dissertation was seen as the "final product," a piece of writing, submitted for review to a university department and examiner, that upon its approval would be bound, shelved in an archive, and never be seen outside the academic sphere.

However, in the modern world, the role and value of research has shifted dramatically.

In today's world, knowledge has rapidly become one of the world's most valuable commodities. Influence on industry is powered by expertise. Innovation is powered by research. Thought leadership is the foundation of credibility. Today, more than ever before, a dissertation can become so much more than simply a university document. It can be the foundation of professional influence and global recognition.

The research work demonstrated beyond merely knowledge of a subject is representative of analytical thinking, intellectual discipline, perseverance and creative problem solving-all factors valued highly by any organization or industry today.

The obstacle researchers currently face is their ignorance of how to translate their academic writing to broader use.

Traditional university academic structures often train researchers to simply complete their work, submitting the paper to the necessary bodies and moving on, without adequate training in how to publish or contribute to public discourse and establish themselves as authoritative experts in their field.

This results in an enormous missed opportunity.

There are valuable insights within every dissertation which can be utilized to inform broader discussions, even though the research focus may be solely upon technicality and the relevant field. Whether it's technology, healthcare, leadership, education, sustainability, psychology, business or societal change, the focus is likely to be upon a challenge that impacts more than just academia.

It's for this reason that researchers have to shift their mindsets.

A dissertation is not merely a 'thesis', but rather an instance of intellectual capital-a substantial piece of work based upon unique thought, that can ultimately deliver visibility, influence and opportunity.

Publishing, is the only conduit between academic writing and impact.

As soon as an piece of research is made visible, it gains the capacity to influence industries, engage audiences, and demonstrate credibility, either through the credibility that follows journal publications, authority delivered through books, or accessibility provided through blogs and digital means and conferences, seminars, podcasts etc.

And the role of storytelling in the modern era needs also be taken into account.

Much academic writing has become so deeply focused on technical writing and accuracy, that the general public simply do not see any need to engage with it. When researchers adapt their writing to highlight the clarity and applicability of their research, enormous audiences will readily connect with them.

The development of online publishing technologies and social networks, from ResearchGate and Academia.edu through to Linkedin, Medium and blogging sites like Blogger and WordPress, have allowed anyone to distribute their findings globally with little more than an internet connection.

And while the focus may have traditionally been upon building a career or acquiring further academic qualifications; in today's world it is equally about gaining prominence, for this will bring further professional opportunities. Visibility becomes more and more important. A researcher who publishes, contributes, collaborates and comments over time will undoubtedly establish themselves as an expert voice and authority in their field.

This influence in itself builds momentum. The increased visibility offered by publication leads to more speaking invitations, consultant opportunities, invitations for collaboration and partnerships, recognition in the media, positions of responsibility and a generally higher profile among potential employers. For a researcher, the dissertation can become far more than a qualification; it becomes a platform to elevate career aspirations and influence.

Although researchers may be reluctant due to fears of criticism or the idea that their research is too niche to be of use, the truth is that success follows a consistent strategy of publishing. Perfection is unattainable.

The future researcher is one that can both create and communicate. In tomorrow's world, it will no longer be enough to labor in obscurity within the academy alone, but to work towards the application and dissemination of findings that may improve our lives and industries around the world.

Your dissertation is not the conclusion. It's the beginning of public influence.

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