Crafting a publications career

Publishing excellent research plays an essential role in shaping and progressing an academic career. It helps to enhance the visibility and credibility of researchers, building a credible academic profile. Publications are important in securing jobs and promotions, obtaining grant funding, and creating pathways for career progression. While publishing has tremendous benefits, many academics encounter internal and external barriers that hinder their writing efforts. This chapter highlights the importance of publication within an academic career, leading to knowledge dissemination, career advancement, credibility and recognition, and societal impact. It also explores the many reasons, including the what, whom, where, and how aspects, that underscore the importance for academics to publish at various stages of their academic journey. This study aims to serve as a guideline for diverse segments of the academic community, ranging from PhD students and early career researchers to senior academics, when crafting their publication careers.