Grad Students Must Focus on the 6 P’s

Entering the workforce with a graduate degree often means stepping into roles within large, sometimes bureaucratic organizations. Whether in academia, government or nonprofits, the ability to navigate such spaces strategically is crucial.

I was fortunate to be introduced to a transformative framework by my colleague Naledi Saul, the director of the Office of Career and Professional Development at the University of California, San Francisco. This framework, which she shared during a midcareer professionals’ workshop organized through the Graduate Career Consortium, has been instrumental in my leadership journey, and I believe it can serve graduate students well in their career paths. One statement she made that has never left my mind and will forever be ingrained in my leadership journey is that “Bureaucracies and institutions do not respond to merit, but bureaucracies and institutions respond to strategy!”

Reflecting on my experience as a new leader in higher education, I realized the immense value of understanding and applying this framework. If you are a graduate student, you may often find yourself in roles within bureaucratic or institutional environments, where navigating the complexities can be challenging. By leveraging the six P’s—purpose, priorities, purse, positioning, politics and people—you can develop a strategic approach to your work and leadership roles.

Purpose. The first step in any strategic endeavor is understanding the purpose of the organization that you are part of. Ask yourself, what is the mission of this organization? What are its core values? How does my role contribute to these larger goals?

Having a clear grasp of the organization’s purpose provides a sense of direction and aligns your efforts with the broader objectives. It’s essential to regularly reflect on how your work advances the organization’s mission, ensuring that your contributions are meaningful and impactful.

Reflecting on my own journey, I’ve seen that understanding the purpose of the organizations I’ve been part of has been a guiding force. In one of my early roles, I was an elected executive of a large labor union that prioritized member engagement and interest-based bargaining. By aligning my projects and accountabilities with those values and goals in mind, I found greater satisfaction in my work and made more significant contributions. For graduate students, taking the time to understand the underlying mission of your university and academic unit can be a game-changer in finding purpose and direction in your role as a student and a professional.

Priorities. Once the purpose is clear, identify the organization’s current priorities. What are its key initiatives and projects? What goals are at the forefront of its agenda? Understanding those priorities helps you focus your efforts on what matters most. It also allows you to anticipate and respond to shifts in focus, ensuring that your work remains relevant and valued. Engaging in conversations with supervisors and colleagues can provide insights into those priorities and how your role fits within them.

In my career, I’ve seen the importance of staying attuned to organizational priorities. At one point, I was involved in a project that initially seemed peripheral but later became central due to a shift in the unit’s focus. By staying informed and adaptable, I was able to position myself and my work strategically, contributing to the organization’s evolving goals. As a grad student, being aware of and responsive to changing priorities can lead to greater alignment and impact in your role.

Purse. The purse, or funding, is a vital aspect of any organization. Knowing where the money comes from and how it is allocated can significantly influence your strategic decisions. Familiarize yourself with the organization’s budget, funding sources and financial constraints. This knowledge will enable you to advocate for resources effectively, identify funding opportunities and make informed decisions about project feasibility and resource asks. Financial literacy is a valuable skill that enhances your ability to navigate and thrive in resource-dependent environments.

Understanding the financial landscape has been crucial in my positions. For instance, during a budget review, I discovered underused funds that could be reallocated to support a high-impact project. That not only advanced the unit goals but also demonstrated my financial acumen and strategic thinking. You can benefit immensely from understanding the financial aspects of their organizations as a grad student, enabling you to make informed and strategic decisions.

Positioning. Positioning involves understanding the organization’s place within the broader landscape. Who are the key partners and stakeholders? How does it compare to competitors or similar entities? What is its distinct value proposition?

By grasping those elements, you can better understand the external factors that influence the decisions of your organization’s leaders. That awareness allows you to align your contributions and expertise with the organization’s strategic positioning, contribute to its competitive advantage and identify opportunities for collaboration and innovation. For example, by identifying potential partnerships with similar institutions and organizations, I was able to initiate joint projects that amplified our impact. Graduate students should consider how your work and expertise are positioned with the broader context and look for opportunities to position the value you bring to strategic initiatives.

Politics. Politics within an organization can be complex and nuanced. It’s essential to recognize the informal networks, power dynamics and decision-making processes that shape the organizational culture. Who holds influence? How are decisions made? What are the unwritten rules? Navigating the political landscapes requires emotional intelligence, diplomacy and strategic thinking. Building relationships and understanding the interpersonal dynamics at play can help you meet challenges and leverage opportunities effectively. As my mentor has always shared, it is important to be able to read a room, to know when to have an opinion and open your mouth and to know when to keep it shut.

Navigating organizational politics has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of my career. By building strong relationships and understanding the power dynamics, I’ve been able to influence decision-making processes and drive meaningful change. For graduate students, honing these political skills is essential for effective leadership and strategic impact.

People. At the heart of any organization are its people. Building strong relationships with colleagues, supervisors and stakeholders is fundamental to your success. Understand the skills, strengths and motivations of those you work with. How can you support and collaborate with them? Effective communication, empathy and teamwork are vital in fostering a positive work environment. Additionally, seeking mentorship and learning from experienced professionals can provide valuable guidance and insights as you navigate your career.

The relationships I’ve built throughout my career have been invaluable. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, I’ve been able to lead effective teams and achieve collective goals. Prioritizing relationships and seeking mentorship can provide a solid foundation for growth and success as a grad student.

Plan

With a thorough understanding of the six P’s, you can develop a strategic plan and approach for your role within the organization. Reflect on how each principle applies to your specific context, and identify actionable steps to enhance your effectiveness. Set clear goals, prioritize tasks and continuously evaluate your progress. A well-thought-out plan ensures that your efforts are aligned with the organization’s objectives and positions you for growth and success.

Developing a strategic plan has been a cornerstone of my leadership approach. By setting clear goals and continuously evaluating progress, managing myself through shifting priorities, I’ve been able to adapt and thrive in various roles. Creating and following a strategic plan can ensure your efforts are focused and aligned with organizational goals.

The six P’s framework offers a comprehensive approach to thinking strategically about your work in any organization. By understanding the purpose, priorities, purse, positioning, politics and people, graduate students can navigate their roles more effectively and contribute meaningfully to their organizations. Embracing this framework empowers you to develop strategic skills, adapt to changing environments, and advance your career with confidence.

As you embark on your professional journey, remember that strategic thinking is a continuous process. Regularly revisit and refine your understanding of the six P’s, and stay proactive in seeking opportunities for growth and development. With a strategic mindset, you can transform challenges into opportunities and navigate the complexities of any organization with ease.