Should I Write Ph.D. or PhD? (Complete Guide)

As some of you are probably aware, the kind of English used on my side of the pond (England) is sometimes a bit different to the English used in the land of burgers and Trump.

Should I Write Ph.D. Or PhD?

What does ph.d. or phd stand for, why americans and brits disagree on ph.d. or phd.

This could help us to understand why Brits prefer PhD but Americans prefer Ph.D.

Perhaps, according to the Brits, it stands for “Philosophiae Doctor”. But, according to the Americans, it stands for “Doctor or Philosophy”.

After all, the Brits do have a habit of trying to sound smarter. But, whichever one you use, people on both sides should know what you’re saying.

Why Ph.D. Or PhD Is A Bit Strange

Let’s say someone gets a Ph.D. in history.

Yet, for some reason, we still call her a “Doctor of philosophy”.

Where Does The Word “Doctor” Come From?

But originally, “Doctor” was Latin for teacher. Through time, you were able to get a “PhD” in more things than just philosophy.

Technically, “Doctor” would be the wrong word. But it’s become so common, it’s managed to “common” itself enough to become the right word.

How To Get A Ph.D. Or PhD

Let’s be honest here, most of the time you spend doing a bachelor is just having fun.

If you want to, you can then progress onto doing a master’s degree. This is a bit more high level, and you tend to need to work for it.

What Kind Of Word Is Ph.D. Or PhD?

A PhD is also something you are. If you have a PhD, you might say “I’m a PhD.”

How To Address Someone With A Ph.D. Or PhD

Ph.d. or phd vs doctorate.

Here are some forms of doctorate you may want to know.

Doctorate in engineering.

If you were wondering whether you should write “PhD” or “Ph.D.”, you can write either, both are grammatically correct, and both are very common terms that mean the same thing.

You may also like: DSc Degree vs. PhD Degree – What’s the Difference? 9 Correct Ways to Write PhD Title on a Business Card

Academia Insider

How to use the PhD title and all the little doctorate “rules”

There are many conventions in the academic world that can make it difficult to navigate the PhD title. The PhD title is awarded to those who have completed a doctoral degree but, not many people know how to use it once they have it.

This article will go through everything you need to know about using the PhD title and when you can start using it.

The “rules” are relatively simple and can be broken as they are not officially set in stone – other than when you can officially call yourself a doctor.

There is no one correct answer but it may be misleading if you use the PhD title incorrectly. Here are the recommendations for effective communication.

It very much depends on the setting. Here are some examples of how I would use my PhD titles awarded to me after my PhD degree.

SituationPreferred titles
Full formal university businessDr Andrew Stapleton Ph.D, MChem
University emailsDr Andy Stapleton
Speaking to a primary school classDr Andy
Emails to students I am lecturingDr Stapleton
How I wish to be called while teaching university classesAndy

How do you Write PhD correctly after a name? Is it ph d or phd?

It can be confusing to know exactly how to write PhD after your name. Which bits are capitalised? Is there a ‘.’ In the middle?

When writing a name with a PhD after it, the correct way to do so is to use “PhD” or “Ph.D. or Ph.D”

Depending on the preference of the individual, either form can be used.

However, if the individual has a business card that states their degree in full, then the more formal “Doctor of Philosophy” should be used.

It is important to note that using “PhD” without any periods is incorrect; this abbreviation should only be used in informal contexts such as emails or text messages. I tend to use PhD in my YouTube videos and some people have pointed out that this is incorrect…

Following the individual’s preferred format will ensure that their name and credentials are properly represented.

Should you use Dr as well as PhD?

Some people like to use Dr and PhD in their official titles. There are a couple of important points that you need to know about markers and academic titles.

  • A person can have more than one marker in their name. For example my full title is Dr Andrew Stapleton, PhD, MChem.
  • The doctor title at the front can be used as a variant to the PhD at the end.

It can be a little bit ambiguous if I was to use Dr Andrew Stapleton, PhD as there are two markers. This could mean that I have two PhD’s, it could mean that I have a PhD and a medical doctorate, or it could just be that I want to use both the doctor and the PhD tags for the one degree.

However, in my experience, I still like to use the doctor title at the front and the PhD tag at the end of my name for official purposes.

Academics would rarely use the PhD suffix in everyday communication. They would much rather just use the doctor title.

What is the proper title for a PhD?

The proper title for a PhD is Doctor of Philosophy. However, some teachers and professors like to be referred to without their official title.

If you are not sure about how your professor, lecturer, or friend with a PhD wishes to be officially addressed you can ask them.

Most of the time, I like to refer to my colleagues with their doctor title for official purposes, but I do not include the PhD at the end of their name. That is much better suited to a business card.

Your lecture may wish to be referred to as:

  • Dr [last name]
  • Dr [first name]

Asking them in the early stages of your relationship is the best way to work out which one they prefer.

If in doubt, always go for the more formal name and nomenclature.

When can you start to use your PhD title after your doctorate?

When you have earned your PhD, you can start using your title immediately. Although, it can be a little bit confusing as to when you have actually passed your PhD. Is it when you have submitted your dissertation? Is it when you have received the comments back?

The University of Adelaide says that you can use it from your conferral date:

Students can be conferred on one of five dates during the year and for PhD students the conferral date will be the first available following the completion of all the academic requirements of your degree, including final thesis lodgement and the disbursement of any outstanding financial obligations to the University.

I started using my PhD title as soon as my confirmation letter arrived at my house. It was the first letter from the University that referred to me as Dr Stapleton. It was incredibly excited.

Generally, it is acceptable to use the title “Dr.” both professionally and socially but socially, people very rarely use it – at least in Australia. But you should never use it if you are a PhD student, PhD candidate or enrolled in a PhD program without a previous PhD qualification. 

I do use it in professional settings but it always makes me feel a little bit awkward.

However, there may be some restrictions for certain settings. For example, if have a research degree resulting in a doctor title and you are working in a medical setting – some institutions do not like you to use Dr as it can confuse patients into thinking that you have a medical degree. 

Instead, they ask that you use the PhD tag at the end of your name rather than the doctoral title for official and professional communications.

What is the correct way to write PhD?

When writing about someone’s PhD, the correct way is to write the term in full and capitalize each letter.

This should be done for all academic degrees, not just PhDs.

For example, it would be “Doctor of Philosophy” or “PhD” instead of “Ph.D.”, “Dr.”, or “DPhil”.

Additionally, it is common to mention the field of study in which the degree was earned if known, such as “Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics”. It is also good practice to include the institution that granted the degree if it is a recognized one.

When writing about someone’s PhD, use proper capitalization and include relevant information like field of study and institution if known to ensure accuracy.

How do you put a PhD in a title?

Putting a PhD in a title is not as complicated as it may sound.

Generally speaking, the proper way to list a PhD in an academic or professional setting is by writing “Dr.” before the name, followed by the person’s full name and the appropriate abbreviations for their degree.

For example, if John Smith has earned a doctorate in psychology, his credentials would be listed as “Dr. John Smith, Ph.D.”

In some cases, such as when addressing someone formally in speech or on a business card, it may also be acceptable to list their credentials as “John Smith, Ph.D.”

Depending on context and personal preference, some people may also choose to list their higher degrees after their names by writing out the entire degree instead of just its abbreviation.

For example, John Smith could choose to write his full title as “John Smith, Doctor of Psychology”

However, I have not seen this in real academic life.

Should the font size of Ph.D. be the same as someone’s name?

The question of whether the font size of a Ph.D. should be the same as someone’s name is an interesting one.

On one hand, it could be argued that the Ph.D. deserves to be highlighted and therefore should be given a larger font size than someone’s name to denote its importance.

On the other, it could be argued that this would not be necessary or appropriate, and that treating everyone equally regardless of their title or degree is more important.

It depends on context and usage – if both names appear in the same document then they should likely have the same font size; however, if one appears in a formal setting such as a diploma or certificate, then it may make sense to give it a larger font size than someone’s name to emphasize its importance and significance.

Ph.Ds (or PhDs) are an important academic achievement and should be respected accordingly but without going overboard by giving them overly large fonts sizes which can take away from rather than add to their importance.

Wrapping up – doctoral title rules

this article has been over everything you need to know that using the PhD title properly and effectively.

The doctor title can be used in place of the PhD and for incredibly formal communications, such as a business email or card, you can use both.

However, sometimes using both can cause confusion as to whether or not there is a reason first using both the doctor and PhD tags. Nonetheless, many people still use both.

phd or ph.d. on business card

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

Thank you for visiting Academia Insider.

We are here to help you navigate Academia as painlessly as possible. We are supported by our readers and by visiting you are helping us earn a small amount through ads and affiliate revenue - Thank you!

phd or ph.d. on business card

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phd or ph.d. on business card

PhD Candidate Business Cards: Making a Lasting Impression in the Academic World

phd candidate business cards making a lasting impression in the academic world

Are you a PhD candidate looking to make a lasting impression in the academic world? Look no further than business cards. Business cards may seem like a relic from the past in today’s digital age, but they still hold a certain charm and effectiveness when it comes to networking and professional interactions. In this article, we will explore why PhD candidate business cards are important, what information they should contain, and tips for designing impressive business cards that leave a lasting impression on colleagues and potential employers.

Why Are PhD Candidate Business Cards Important?

phd candidate business cards 1

As a PhD candidate, business cards can serve as a valuable tool in your professional arsenal. They allow you to easily exchange contact information with fellow researchers, professors, and potential collaborators at academic conferences, workshops, and other networking events. While you may already have an online presence and a professional email signature, business cards offer a tangible and personal touch that can make you more memorable in the minds of others.

Building Your Personal Brand

Your business card is a tangible representation of your personal brand as a PhD candidate. By designing a unique and visually appealing card, you can showcase your professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail. This is especially important when you’re competing in a crowded academic environment.

Facilitating Networking Opportunities

Attending conferences and other academic events provides an opportunity to meet and connect with influential individuals in your field. By having your business card readily available, you can easily share your contact information, ensuring that others can reach out to you later for collaboration, research opportunities, or job prospects. It’s all about making those valuable connections that can shape your future career.

Leaving a Lasting Impression

In the fast-paced world of academia, it’s easy to forget someone’s name or research interests amidst a sea of faces and conversations. A well-designed business card with concise information can help others remember you long after the event has ended. Additionally, the act of exchanging a physical business card shows a level of professionalism and sincerity, leaving a positive impression on your recipients.

What Information Should Your PhD Candidate Business Card Contain?

phd candidate business cards 2

While the design of your business card should be visually appealing and reflective of your personal brand, it’s crucial to include relevant and concise information to make it functional. Here are some essential elements to consider:

1. Your Name and Degree

Make sure your full name is prominently displayed on the card. As a PhD candidate, it’s also important to indicate your degree in progress. You can include “PhD Candidate” or “Doctoral Candidate” below your name. This helps establish your credibility and expertise, allowing others to recognize your academic standing right away.

2. Contact Information

Include your professional email address and phone number on the card. Ensure that the email address you provide is associated with your academic institution or a reputable platform like Gmail. Avoid using personal email addresses or unprofessional handles, as they can create a negative impression. Including your LinkedIn profile link can also be beneficial if you maintain an active profile.

3. Research Focus or Field of Study

Including a brief summary of your research focus or field of study can help others quickly understand your academic interests and expertise. Keep this section concise and to the point, emphasizing keywords and phrases that capture the essence of your work.

4. Personal Website or Portfolio (Optional)

If you have a personal website or an online portfolio showcasing your research, publications, and projects, consider including the URL on your business card. This allows interested individuals to delve deeper into your work and provides an additional avenue for making connections.

Designing Impressive PhD Candidate Business Cards

Now that you understand the importance of PhD candidate business cards and what information to include, let’s explore some tips for designing impressive cards that make a lasting impression:

1. Keep it Simple and Professional

Avoid cluttering your business card with excessive design elements or overwhelming information. Stick to a clean and professional design that reflects your academic field.

2. Choose a Legible Font

Ensure that the font you choose is easily legible. A combination of a sans-serif font for your name and a serif font for other text can create a pleasing contrast. Experiment with font sizes to make important information stand out without overwhelming the card.

3. Use High-Quality Printing and Materials

Invest in high-quality printing and materials to ensure your cards look and feel professional. Matte or glossy finishes, thick paper stock, and rounded corners can add a touch of sophistication to your business cards.

4. Incorporate Branding Elements

Consider incorporating elements from your academic institution, such as its logo or color scheme, to tie your business card to your current academic affiliations. This can help establish credibility and recognition within your field.

5. Double-Check for Accuracy

Before printing a large batch of business cards, meticulously proofread and double-check all the information. A typo or incorrect contact information can be embarrassing and undermine your professionalism.

6. Get Feedback

Show your design to trusted colleagues or mentors and ask for their feedback. Their insights can help you refine your design and ensure it makes the desired impact.

In Conclusion

phd candidate business cards 3

As a PhD candidate, business cards are a valuable tool to establish your personal brand, facilitate networking opportunities, and leave a lasting impression on others. By including essential information and designing your cards with professionalism and creativity, you can elevate your presence in the academic world. So, don’t underestimate the power of a well-designed business card; it might just open doors to exciting research collaborations, job opportunities, and lifelong connections in your field as a PhD candidate.

Ava Taylor

Ava Taylor’s passion for branding and marketing shines through in her dynamic writing. She brings a unique perspective with her background in event planning, infusing creativity into her content. When she’s not writing, Ava enjoys organizing community events and gatherings.

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phd or ph.d. on business card

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Research Tips and Infromation

Is it Necessary to Have Business Cards for PhD Students?

Business Card for PhD

In the world of academia, networking and professionalism are the pillars upon which promising careers are built. For PhD students, this holds particularly true as they navigate the intricate paths of research, mentorship, and collaboration. Yet, in an increasingly digital age, where virtual connections abound, the timeless charm and efficacy of a small piece of paper often go overlooked—the business card. In this digital era, is there still a place for business cards in the academic landscape? We believe the answer is a resounding yes.

A business card for PhD students is a small, professionally designed card that contains essential contact information, academic titles, and optional elements such as research interests, and serves as a tangible representation of a PhD student’s professional identity. It is a tool used to facilitate networking, establish credibility, and make a lasting impression in academic and professional settings.

In the following article, we will delve into the significance of business cards for PhD students. We will explore how these modest, pocket-sized pieces of professionalism can leave an indelible mark on your academic journey. From crafting the perfect design to understanding what crucial details should grace your card, we’ll provide comprehensive guidance for every aspiring scholar. Moreover, we will discuss when and how to distribute these cards for maximum impact. After all, networking isn’t merely about exchanging contact information; it’s about building meaningful connections that can propel your academic career to new heights.

Join us as we unravel the art and science of business cards for PhD students. Discover how these small, tangible tokens can help you make a professional impression and open doors to academic opportunities you never thought possible. Whether you’re a doctoral candidate just embarking on this scholarly adventure or a seasoned researcher looking to enhance your professional image, this article will equip you with the knowledge you need to stand out in the academic world.

So, grab your notepad, or perhaps, your digital device, and let’s embark on this exploration of the timeless tool that can elevate your academic journey—your very own business card.

Introduction

The value of business cards for phd students, essential information in phd business card, optional elements in phd business card, professional design for phd business card, colour and branding for phd business card, etiquette and follow-up.

Networking and professionalism are the cornerstones of success for PhD students in today’s academic and professional landscape.

Imagine you’re at a prestigious academic conference, surrounded by brilliant minds in your field, and you strike up a conversation with a renowned professor. The discussion is insightful, and you’re on the brink of a meaningful connection that could potentially shape your academic journey. However, when the time comes to exchange contact information, all you have is a hurriedly scribbled email address on a napkin. In this fast-paced world, a simple piece of paper could be the difference between a fleeting conversation and a lasting connection. This is where the humble business card steps in.

Pursuing a PhD is a demanding endeavour, often involving years of dedicated research, academic discussions, and the quest for knowledge. In this journey, networking and professionalism are paramount. Building relationships with mentors, peers, and experts in your field can open doors to opportunities, collaborations, and future career prospects. Yet, the question remains: Why do business cards still matter in an age dominated by digital communication and social media connections?

This article aims to shed light on the enduring relevance of business cards for PhD students. We’ll explore how these tangible tokens of professionalism hold the power to make a lasting impression in the academic world.

By the end of this read, you’ll understand not only the value of a well-crafted business card but also how to create one that reflects your academic journey and aspirations. Get ready to unravel the secrets of making a memorable mark as a PhD student by mastering the art of business card exchange. Whether you’re at a conference, seminar, or casual meet-and-greet, we’ll guide you on why, what, and how to use these tiny tools effectively.

Business cards play a pivotal role in establishing a professional identity for PhD students. When you exchange a well-designed and thoughtfully crafted business card, you’re not just passing along contact information; you’re making a statement about your professionalism, expertise, and commitment to your field.

Consider this scenario: You meet a potential collaborator or a future employer at an academic event. Instead of fumbling through your pockets or digging for a scrap of paper to write your email address, you confidently present a professionally designed business card. The simple act of handing over this card communicates that you are serious about your work, you pay attention to detail, and you value the connection you’re about to make. It tells the other person that you are invested in your academic journey and eager to engage in professional relationships.

Moreover, a well-designed business card acts as a tangible extension of your academic persona. It reflects your dedication to your field of study, and it becomes an integral part of your personal brand as a PhD student.

  • According to a study by the Harvard Business Review, 72% of people judge a person’s professional capabilities based on the quality and design of their business cards. This highlights the significance of making a strong first impression through a well-designed card.
  • Anecdotal evidence also demonstrates the value of business cards in professional settings. For instance, Dr. Jane Smith, a renowned professor in the field of neuroscience, recalls how she received a business card from a PhD student at a conference. The card’s design was impressive, and Dr. Smith was so intrigued that she later contacted the student to discuss a potential research collaboration. This illustrates how a business card can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities.

By presenting yourself professionally through a business card, you not only enhance your credibility but also increase the likelihood of future collaborations and academic success.

What to Include on Your PhD Business Card?

A PhD student’s business card should include essential information that allows for easy and effective contact. These core elements typically encompass your name, contact details, and academic title.

Name: Your full name should take centre stage on the card, displayed prominently and legibly. If you have any academic titles (e.g., “Ph.D.” or “Doctor of Philosophy”), these should appear alongside your name to convey your scholarly standing.

Contact Details: Include your professional contact information. This should comprise a professional email address, a phone number where you can be reached, and the physical address of your institution or department. It’s crucial that these details are accurate and up to date.

Academic Title: As a PhD student, your academic title, such as “Ph.D. Candidate” or “Doctoral Researcher,” serves to underscore your academic standing. This title can instil confidence in your peers and potential collaborators and signal that you are actively engaged in advanced studies.

Academic and institutional branding guidelines are paramount in maintaining consistency across all university-related materials. For example, if your institution has specific guidelines for font style, logo usage, or colour schemes, adhere to them when designing your business card. This ensures that your card aligns with your university’s branding and reinforces your affiliation.

While essential information establishes your academic identity, optional elements can add depth and richness to your business card, providing insights into your academic interests and digital presence.

Research Interests: Including a brief list of your research interests or academic specializations can be a valuable addition. This provides recipients with a quick glimpse into your areas of expertise. For instance, a card for a psychology student might list “Cognitive Psychology” and “Neuroscience” as research interests.

QR Code: In today’s digital age, incorporating a QR code on your business card can be a smart move. This QR code can link to your personal website, academic profile, or LinkedIn page, enabling easy access to more detailed information about your academic journey, publications, and projects.

Optional elements can enhance your card’s effectiveness by facilitating more in-depth connections. For instance, a QR code can direct colleagues or potential collaborators to your online presence, where they can access your research papers, conference presentations, and contact details conveniently. This level of accessibility can strengthen your network and foster future collaborations.

Including both essential and optional elements on your business card helps strike a balance between professional identity and the ability to convey your academic interests and accomplishments effectively.

Design and Formatting Tips for PhD Business Card

Designing your business card with professionalism in mind is essential. A clean and professional design ensures that your card conveys the right impression to those who receive it. Here are some tips for creating a business card with a professional design:

  • Keep it Simple: A clutter-free design is key. Avoid overcrowding the card with too much information or complex graphics. Simplicity often equals sophistication.
  • Legibility is Crucial: Use clear, easy-to-read fonts. The font size should be large enough to ensure that your name and other details can be read without difficulty.
  • Visual Appeal: While simplicity is crucial, that doesn’t mean your card has to be dull. You can add a touch of visual appeal through tasteful graphics, such as your university’s logo or an academic-themed image related to your field of study.
  • Consistency: Ensure that your business card design aligns with your personal or institutional branding, maintaining a cohesive look with your other academic materials.

According to a study published in the Journal of Business Research, a well-designed business card is more likely to leave a positive impression on recipients. The study revealed that 90% of people believe that a visually appealing business card indicates a high-quality service or product.

Colours and branding are critical aspects of your business card’s design. They play a significant role in shaping your card’s visual identity and impact.

  • Use of Colors: While you can certainly add colour to your card, it’s important to use a professional and consistent colour scheme. Overly vibrant or clashing colours may detract from the professionalism of your card. Stick to classic and subdued colour choices.
  • Institutional Branding: If you are affiliated with a university or institution, incorporate their branding elements such as the official logo, colours, or fonts. This aligns your card with the institution’s image and can enhance its credibility.

Branding guidelines exist for a reason. They help maintain a unified visual identity for organizations and institutions. When your business card complies with these guidelines, it can subliminally convey trust and credibility. For example, if you’re a PhD student at “X University,” using the university’s official colours and logo can immediately link you to the institution’s reputation and history.

Incorporating these design and branding elements into your business card helps ensure that it not only looks professional but also aligns with your academic and institutional identity, reinforcing your credibility in the eyes of those who receive your card.

When and How to Distribute PhD Business Cards

Timing and context are crucial when distributing your business cards as a PhD student. Identify specific situations and events where it’s appropriate and beneficial to hand out your business cards. Here are some examples of academic and professional gatherings where you can distribute your cards:

  • Academic Conferences: One of the most obvious settings is an academic conference. These events gather scholars, researchers, and professionals from your field in one place, providing an excellent opportunity to network and exchange business cards.
  • Seminars and Workshops: Attendees at specialized seminars and workshops often share similar interests, making it an ideal setting for networking and card exchange.
  • University Events: University-hosted lectures, colloquiums, and social gatherings can also be fruitful for networking among faculty and fellow students.
  • Career Fairs: If you’re exploring career options beyond academia, career fairs can be a prime opportunity to connect with potential employers or organizations.

Studies in the field of networking and career development have consistently shown that in-person events like conferences and professional gatherings significantly contribute to building valuable connections. For example, a survey by Networking Now revealed that 85% of professionals believed in-person meetings are essential for building and maintaining business relationships.

I have written several articles related to Research conferences . Please visit to learn more about how to identify predatory and good conferences, how to dress for the conference and how to make research presentations at research conferences and many more.

Distributing your business card is just the first step; proper etiquette and follow-up are equally crucial. Here’s advice on how to exchange business cards professionally and how to maintain connections:

  • Exchange Cards Thoughtfully: When exchanging business cards, do so at an appropriate moment in the conversation. Take the time to engage in a meaningful discussion before offering your card. When you receive someone else’s card, take a moment to read it and acknowledge the information.
  • Follow Up Promptly: After the event, follow up with the individuals you’ve connected with. Send a personalized email expressing your appreciation for the conversation and expressing your interest in further collaboration or communication.
  • Maintain Regular Contact: Building professional relationships requires ongoing effort. Stay in touch with your network by sending occasional updates on your academic progress or by engaging in discussions related to your field of study.

A study published in the Harvard Business Review found that following up after networking events significantly increases the likelihood of turning initial connections into lasting professional relationships. For example, a well-crafted follow-up email can lead to collaborations, mentorships, or job opportunities.

By distributing your business cards in appropriate settings, observing proper etiquette, and diligently following up with your contacts, you maximize the potential of your network and pave the way for meaningful collaborations and career advancement as a PhD student.

The article emphasizes that business cards remain a valuable tool for PhD students, allowing them to make a professional impression, build meaningful connections, and enhance their academic and professional journeys. By understanding the value, design, and effective use of business cards, PhD students can take full advantage of the networking opportunities available to them.

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Professional designations and degrees on business cards and e-mail signatures [duplicate]

I'm going to be creating some simple business cards for myself going forward, and would like some advice on the addition of my degrees and professional designations to the card.

So far, the planned text, aside of the graphics, phone numbers, e-mail address, etc, would look like (using made-up names):

The P.Eng. designation is critical, as it means I am a "true" engineer, have the requisite supervised experience, no criminal record, have completed the law and ethics training, and so forth. In Canada, one is not allowed to have the word "engineer" in one's job title or on his/her business cards without earning the P.Eng. designation. It would be like calling one's self a "medical doctor" without the right credentials, and you can be fined heavily for it.

At least one academic degree should be listed, but I opted to list both my PhD and Masters in Engineering, as in my neck of the woods (North America), at least in the tech sector, there is a common trend where people will do just a Bachelors and a PhD, or sometimes just a PhD, usually from a degree mill. The common sentiment is that people who have taken this route are "professional students" with no relevant job skills, or the degree is meaningless if it smells like a degree mill; while one with the Bachelors, Masters, and PhD plus at least so many years of experience can actually be hired for real work. I've even known several individuals who don't even include their PhD on CVs/resumes for this reason.

I opted to leave out the Bachelors of Engineering since I feel it would be overkill. Finally, I feel the FIEEE designation shows a lot of committment to my field, and opted to include it.

So, my question is as follows: Does this seem to be overkill or snooty in professional or academic circles in North America? My main concern is listing two degrees, and using the format described above has already gotten me some vicious comments on e-mail threads for being "elitist", though the individuals who made those comments tend to exhibit anti-academic sentiments anyways, so I'm probably just (unintentionally) rubbing salt in a wound or hitting a nerve.

Also, if anyone could weight in on whether this is acceptable in Western Europe (I sometimes work with Field Application Engineers in France, UK, and Italy), it would be very helpful.

My plan is to use this advice to create multiple sets of business cards and/or e-mail signatures if there is enough variance in cultural attitudes to justify it. Thank you!

  • professionalism
  • business-cards
  • 2 The answers here are likely to be very opinion based, especially when "snooty" is one of your options. I would think that P.Eng and Ph.D would be sufficient. The Ph.D either includes, or supersedes the Masters degree, and nobody would doubt your commitment to your profession unless you demonstrate your lack of commitment, so the FIEEE is not really necessary. IMO. (Southwestern USA, fwiw) –  Kent A. Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 17:06
  • 3 Your business card is not your CV. If you feel like the only way you can be taken seriously is to beat people over the head with your qualifications, you're doing it wrong. –  Eric Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 19:00
  • @Eric A business cad doesnt need to impress people but rather should be a small piece of paper which yields all information about a person. And if this guy is good at doing a specific or multiple thing (s) that it would be nice if other people would be able to see it because it adds value to the person and thus to the ability to connect to other people –  BlueWizard Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 22:42
  • 1 @JonasDralle Again, your business card is not your CV. It's a way for people to remember you after meeting you and contact you. If you couldn't make your qualifications known and yourself memorable when handing out the card, you're doing it wrong. –  Eric Commented Aug 10, 2015 at 3:28
  • The commentary about needing to have a Masters in addition to the PhD to be taken seriously sounds very odd. –  Chan-Ho Suh Commented Aug 10, 2015 at 5:41

3 Answers 3

It seems your question can be answered with the old cliche "You can't make everyone happy".

That's something that's very important to consider with personal branding. Are some people going to think you're an academic intellectual elitist with your large degree listings? Sure maybe...

But at the same time aren't a lot of people going to find your degree set as something that designates you as a great contractor to give their engineering department (or whatever they need consulting on) the boost forward it really needs? Probably. I think you have two pretty good options here...

You could experiment and collect metrics from your personal brand with different levels of degree suffixes, and see which one gains you the most customers and engagements with as much control of other variables as possible.

(What I would do) Is you can kind of apply the "have your cake and eat it too" principle by drawing minimum attention to the degree principle, which seems to (in my opinion) say "Hey I got all these awesome degrees but I'm totally not snooty about it". That best way to do that is to either put a more subtle color contrast on the suffix and/or make them smaller.

For example:

enter image description here

Hopefully that helped and to harp on that main point, you really can't please everyone, just make sure you're pleasing the most amount of people possible.

Community's user avatar

  • You're very welcome –  salad_bar_breath Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 19:35
  • Smaller - good Idea. That small - no. I think you worked hard for those titles and you have every right to show it to the world. This title is now legally part of your name and no one can blame you for using it like it. –  BlueWizard Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 22:40
  • I threw that together in Paint.Net in less than sixty seconds, cut me some slack @JonasDralle lol. I agree it definitely shouldn't be that small but I was just trying to show the concept for content that you want to draw less attention to. I personally totally agree with you and I'm all about parading academic accomplishments (as you can see by my Dean's List awards flaunting on my LinkedIn). However, the intellectual elitist label is an existent one in our society, and I want to help him sell to as many clients as possible, including the ones tossing that label around... –  salad_bar_breath Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 22:52
  • 1 Ah ok. I think it could look pretty good when it's the same font size but has a dark gray as color (not black) with small line thickness. This would look modern and decent without disturbing the eye thru diffrent font sizes. But thats just an Idea –  BlueWizard Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 22:56
  • That would be pretty cool, I think it could work with the same or almost the same font size but I still think it would look good super-scripted. I put the colors on there more to demonstrate contrast, because I have no clue what color theme he was planning to stick on his business cards. Maybe you should start something up in Graphic Design Stack Exchange on how to throw together some sick designs on name/suffix combinations. Send me the link when you do I want to see that. –  salad_bar_breath Commented Aug 9, 2015 at 23:28

Unfortunately this depends a bit on context, culture and the recipient. For a while I had actually two set of business cards, one with the PhD and one with PhD off. PhD is useful in Europe and when interacting with the press and public communication. PhD in day to day business in the US feels pretentious so it's better to leave it off.

Business cards are cheap, so there is no problem in carrying two sets.

I would leave the Master's off. The PhD already implies that you have a master (and a bachelor, and a high school degree etc.), so unless it's in a different field or major, it doesn't add any information.

Hilmar's user avatar

I'm assuming you are approaching this problem as an independent contractor trying to sell your services directly to potential customers.

You are not selling your credentials. You are selling services or solutions. If your competition with fewer credentials is offering better and cheaper solutions to your potential customers, you have a problem that your credentials alone will not solve. Your crendentials may make you a more trustworthy supplier to new customers, but after the first job, trustworthiness will be defined purely on how well you have already delivered. If you get word-of-mouth recommendations from customers, you can be assured it is not because you have 4 acronyms after your name but rather because you provided a great solution or service.

If you approach it from this angle, you will see that emphasizing your credentials is important, but it should not be the central focus of your message. You should mention your credentials clearly on your website in a section about your background. You should also place enough emphasis on your background and experience to be taken seriously in initial conversations. Your credentials are a small part of this. The main focus of your website and initial conversations, though, should be about how you will meet the potential customer's needs. You should focus on how great your solutions are, how you have provided similar solutions to other customers before, etc.

Once you have a great initial conversation and a great website to entice potential customers, then you should find that your e-mail signature and your business cards become more of a reminder to people of who you are and how to contact you rather than a sales vehicle in their own right. In this context, it should not be necessary to include your credentials everywhere.

If you simply can't resist putting credentials in your signature and on your business cards, try to limit yourself to one that best conveys how having that credential will ensure your solutions are top notch.

Eric's user avatar

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phd or ph.d. on business card

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phd or ph.d. on business card

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Ph.D. or PhD on business card

  • Thread starter oscarthewild
  • Start date Feb 5, 2007
  • Tags business business card business cards ph.d. phd
  • Culture and Lifestyle

oscarthewild

oscarthewild

Distinguished member.

  • Feb 5, 2007

Hello, I have seen examples of each Ph.D. http://radio.weblogs.com/0110772/BusinessCardEng.jpg http://www.psych.ufl.edu/~white/kdw_..._card_2005.gif and also examples of PhD http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/audio...rd-Herring.gif http://research.microsoft.com/~awils...20card%202.jpg Any comments which is correct or more correct? Thanks -  

chorse123

Stylish Dinosaur

Ph.D. according to Chicago Manual of Style.  

Thank you  

LA Guy

Opposite Santa

They are all fine. However, imhe, no academic puts "Ph.D" on their card. It's assumed that you have one, especially if "Professor" is anywhere on the card. A Ph.D. is sort of like having a ticket for the show. No one pins it to their chest. Same goes for research labs like JPL, NASA/Ames, etc... The only reason that you would put Ph.D. is if you work in the bureaucracy or in the corporate world, where not everyone has a Ph.D. The only letters I generally see on academic and researchers cards are things like fellowships in the Academy of Sciences or a similar honor.  

MrRogers

Senior Member

I dunno, I have to disagree with that. I've been in academia (psych) for the better part of my life and whose with doc degrees have Psy.D. or Ph.D. on their card. It is assumed that if one is called a "psychologist" then they have a doctorate as MS level practitioners default to "therapist". Perhaps this is different in other fields such as research as the above poster mentioned IMHO if you get through a doctoral program you deserve to put it on there MrR  

drizzt3117

Originally Posted by MrRogers Click to expand...

imageWIS

Originally Posted by drizzt3117 Click to expand...

DNW

Originally Posted by imageWIS Click to expand...

LabelKing

What do the German academics put on their cards?  

odoreater

Ph.D. looks better, IMO.  

matadorpoeta

matadorpoeta

not all professors have a ph.d. it is a common complaint at many colleges that undergrad classes, especially lower division ones, are being taught by professors with only a master's degree.  

Originally Posted by matadorpoeta Click to expand...

kwiteaboy

I can't wait to put Ph.D. all over everything I own. All of my shirts will be monogrammed at the cuff with PHD.  

Violinist

Originally Posted by LabelKing Click to expand...

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Student Business Cards

Harvard Griffin GSAS graduate students can order business cards online in blocks of 250, 500, or 1,000. 

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For graduate students, attending conferences and building connections with others in their field is a key component of professional development. Having a business card on hand can be an important way to share information.

Students enrolled in degree programs at the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences can order business cards online in blocks of 250, 500, or 1,000. Cards will be available for pick up at the reception desk at the Harvard Griffin GSAS administrative offices on the third floor of the Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Campus Center, 1350 Massachusetts Avenue, and you will be contacted when they are ready. You may also select to have your cards delivered to you directly for an additional fee. Production time is 7–14 business days from approval. 

 Please follow the instructions below when placing an order.

  • Go to hgsasstudent.fenwayprint.com .
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For additional questions, please email  [email protected]  or call 617-495-2321.

Ph.D. or PhD: which is correct?

What is the correct abbreviation for phd answered. .

How to spell PhD? Is it Ph.D. or PhD?

Answer: both are correct, Ph.D. and PhD are correct abbreviations of Doctor of Philosophy or the Latin term Philosophiae Doctor . Apart from these two, another correct abbreviation is DPhil. 

PhD and Ph.D. abbreviations explained 

Although both, PhD without periods and Ph.D. with periods are correct, currently the language is evolving into a more simplified spelling. The current tendency is to write PhD rather than Ph.D. (similarly to the spelling of ‘pm’ instead of ‘p.m.’)

Now let’s look into some examples. 

Ph.D. or PhD? Which is correct? Explained.

How to write Ph.D. on a business card?

Examples of ph.d. and phd on business cards.

  • Jane Fox, M.D., Ph.D.
  • Adam Murphy, PhD
  • Charles Newman Ph.D. Candidate Department of Geology

How to use Ph.D. in a sentence? 

Examples of phd and ph.d. usage in a sentence.

  • John is currently working towards his PhD. 
  • Sylvia has a PhD in chemistry. 
  • A PhD is a postgraduate academic degree awarded by universities.
  • His current PhD research focuses on second language acquisition. 

How to write Ph.D. in a signature?

Examples of ph.d and phd in signatures.

  • Timothy Smith Ph.D. in Psychology Cambridge University 
  • Deborah Williams, PhD CEO, Brilliant Ideas 

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  • Ars Lykaion
  • The Boardroom

mentioning credentials (MS, MBA, PMP) in your business card

  • Thread starter nixss7
  • Start date Nov 5, 2010

More options

Wise, aged ars veteran.

  • Nov 5, 2010
  • Add bookmark

This is a simple question, but after days of reviewing online, I am not sure about this. Is it okay to mention your degrees and certifications after your name in business cards. Some say that it depends on the audience. Some suggested to have 2 cards. One formal card (where you work) where you do not mention the credentials and one personal card which mentions all your credentials. But if you were to have one card, would you have the degrees and certifications mentioned in your business card? Please advise. Thanks.  

Ars Scholae Palatinae

Tacky.  

ChloroFiend

Ars praefectus.

In my field (IT/INFOSEC), it's pretty commonplace and accepted to add those in. I personally wouldn't display more than 2 or 3 designations, as after that point it strikes me as an exercise in e-peen measuring. For instance, I could technically list out "ChloroFiend, MS, CISSP, MCSE:Security, CCSE, Sec+" and a few others I've likely forgotten. Instead, I only use "ChloroFiend, CISSP" as its pretty much the capstone credential in my field. I'll add on the CISM as well too when I earn that designation but don't anticipate tacking anything else on. I terms of academic degrees, I do hold an MS but don't list that anywhere. I wouldn't do that with an MBA either. PhD only if its specifically relevant to the position.  

pauli

Ars Legatus Legionis

if the qualification isn't intrinsic to your job (md, dds, etc), don't put it on.  

Bright Wire

Either use the capstone of your profession or leave it off completely. Nothing is more ridiculous than watching folks put expected credentials on cards and in email signatures like Joe Black, Computer Support Tech: A+, Network+, MCP. Watching Project Managers put down MBA and PMP is always laughable. It tells me nothing more about your ability to do the job than adding on "Can pee standing up" in my experience. Bonus points for reordering your creds to the following: Nixss PiMP mmMBAp w/ MS  

Thanks for the great advice. I did think it was kinda tacky as well.  

English_C6H^

I went back and forth on this for a long time before I figured out a simple test. Here's my test: Would you be held to a higher legal standard for having those letters behind your name? If you're not sure, think about this: If you worked free-lance, would you need malpractice or "errors and omissions" insurance? If you do, congratulations, you're held to a higher legal standard. With great power comes great responsibility (and the opportunity to put letters after your name on a little piece of a dead tree). e.g. - MD - Yes DDS/DMD - Yes CPR - No CPA - Yes CFP - No, AFAIK (Cert. Financial Planner) PE - Yes (Professional Engineer) CIH/DABT - Yes (Certified Industrial Hygienist, Diplomat of American Board of Toxicology) CSP - Probably not (Certified Safety Professional)  

But if you were to have one card, would you have the degrees and certifications mentioned in your business card? Click to expand...

Ars Tribunus Angusticlavius

I have no degree, and no certifications. And yet, I put HMFIC after my name on business cards.  

English_C6H^":484gh1r2 said: I went back and forth on this for a long time before I figured out a simple test. Here's my test: Would you be held to a higher legal standard for having those letters behind your name? If you're not sure, think about this: If you worked free-lance, would you need malpractice or "errors and omissions" insurance? If you do, congratulations, you're held to a higher legal standard. With great power comes great responsibility (and the opportunity to put letters after your name on a little piece of a dead tree). e.g. - MD - Yes DDS/DMD - Yes CPR - No CPA - Yes CFP - No, AFAIK (Cert. Financial Planner) PE - Yes (Professional Engineer) CIH/DABT - Yes (Certified Industrial Hygienist, Diplomat of American Board of Toxicology) CSP - Probably not (Certified Safety Professional) Click to expand...

Danger Mouse

Danger Mouse

  • Nov 6, 2010
Heresiarch":3oa87sk9 said: My rule of thumb (when evaluating email sigs and business cards) is simple: "the more credentials they feel the need to include, the more likely it is they're a complete cock". I may unfairly a few exclude people who are simply proud of what they've achieved, but meh Click to expand...

NervousEnergy

NervousEnergy

  • Nov 8, 2010
Would you be held to a higher legal standard for having those letters behind your name Click to expand...
  • Nov 10, 2010
brainchasm":2jq6gzhk said: I have no degree, and no certifications. And yet, I put HMFIC after my name on business cards. Click to expand...
LordFrith":3guoauzc said: Heck, I find it tacky when people add "PhD" after their names on business cards, and that's significantly more work than any cert. Click to expand...

death_to_novell

"Heck, I find it tacky when people add "PhD" after their names on business cards, and that's significantly more work than any cert." I don't think I've ever seen that. I do occasionally see Dr. when interacting with people in industry. It's kind of good because it tells me the person I'm talking too might not be a clueless moron who can't help with my questions.  

As a Senior Network Engineer, I was keen on putting my CCIE number on my cards and email signature. Now that I am in a management role, I leave that off. I also don't put my M.S. on there either. I guess I just let my work do the talking. I keep all my certs active and list the relevant ones on my resume, but I don't just vomit all of them on to the paper.  

M. Jones":119a2lnh said: brainchasm":119a2lnh said: I have no degree, and no certifications. And yet, I put HMFIC after my name on business cards. Click to expand...
JasonF":2596tv5a said: I do occasionally see Dr. when interacting with people in industry. It's kind of good because it tells me the person I'm talking too might not be a clueless moron who can't help with my questions. Click to expand...

The Mighty Zoltan

  • Nov 15, 2010
English_C6H^":1lbx43qt said: JasonF":1lbx43qt said: I do occasionally see Dr. when interacting with people in industry. It's kind of good because it tells me the person I'm talking too might not be a clueless moron who can't help with my questions. Click to expand...
  • Nov 16, 2010
I used to do desktop support at a small firm that was all MD, MBA, PhDs. Yes, everyone had all of those degrees. Great people, they couldn't tie their own shoes, but great people. Click to expand...
  • Nov 17, 2010
JasonF":1t504q46 said: I don't think I've ever seen that. I do occasionally see Dr. when interacting with people in industry. It's kind of good because it tells me the person I'm talking too might not be a clueless moron who can't help with my questions. Click to expand...

Ars Tribunus Militum

I guess I'm tacky, because I have PhD on my card. In an academic/research setting it does make a difference in how you get perceived. If I were out in industry, I wouldn't, but here at a gov't research institute I do. I don't go around shouting that I have the degree, but occasionally it's nice not to be thought of as some IT flunky, computer guy. I'm so low-key about it, that one of the secretaries said to me recently that she just found out I was a "doctor". We've been working in the same group for 8 or 9 years.  

Heresiarch":3km6pjhr said: My rule of thumb (when evaluating email sigs and business cards) is simple: "the more credentials they feel the need to include, the more likely it is they're a complete cock" Click to expand...

I met a guy once who listed his A+ certification on his business card. No joke.  

I think I have my name followed by CCNP and CCSP because those are the two highest and most recognized certs that I have. When I finish my CCIE, damn right I will be putting my CCIE # on my cards. I see nothing wrong with PMP or some other high level or capstone cert. As for degrees, I only think academic degrees are appropriate when they are graduate degrees. So you would not put Joe Schmo, B.S. but Joe Schmoe, P.H.D. or M.D. or J.D. is appropriate. Master's degrees are a bit iffy, especially an MBA.  

pauli":2fzgd50n said: if the qualification isn't intrinsic to your job (md, dds, etc), don't put it on. Click to expand...

FWIW I work with a number of PhDs in a commercial setting, and I think they've earned it. However I won't (seriously) call you Doctor unless you're an MD. Beyond the terminal PhD level degrees, in an appropriate professional setting I think I like the "legal standard" one is pretty good. EDIT: Agreed on the JD thing. It's reasonable to put on a business card, and you did complete post-graduate level course work. However you aren't a Doctor. JSD, sure, ok.  

clm100":o13fmhxp said: FWIW I work with a number of PhDs in a commercial setting, and I think they've earned it. However I won't (seriously) call you Doctor unless you're an MD. Beyond the terminal PhD level degrees, in an appropriate professional setting I think I like the "legal standard" one is pretty good. Click to expand...
EDIT: Agreed on the JD thing. It's reasonable to put on a business card, and you did complete post-graduate level course work. However you aren't a Doctor. JSD, sure, ok. Click to expand...

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PhD on business cards

  • Thread starter Agiii
  • Start date Sep 6, 2015

Agiii

Senior Member

  • Sep 6, 2015

I've got a PhD in a non-medical field of study. I'm currently designing my business cards and asking myself whether it's normal to put my PhD on them and if yes, in what form. Mary Smith PhD Mary Smith, PhD Mary Smith Ph.D. Mary Smith, Ph.D. ? Or how should I do it? I got my PhD in continental Europe and the original title is "Dr. (Mary Smith)", I'm not sure if that's used in the US/ UK/ Australia, etc.  

grassy

Hi, I have seen this: Mary Smith, PhD  

sdgraham

You're likely to "see" just about anything in such style issues. The style used by American newspapers (when they follow the stylebook) is Mary Smith, Ph.D. (No. 4 above) Likewise, American newspapers do not use the honorary title "Dr." for non-medical degrees and might not use it at all when not relevant. Sen. Rand Paul, for example, who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, is an ophthalmologist, but since that's irrelevant to his political aspirations, news stories generally do not use the medical honorific.  

Song Sprite

Ok, thank you so much!  

  • Sep 18, 2015

Sorry, I have to start the subject again. I see "Dr John Smith" a lot on linkedin and I'm asking myself whether this version is not preferred to "John Smith, Ph.D.".  

natkretep

Moderato con anima (English Only)

The British style is not to use the full stops: Mary Smith, PhD - and if you include PhD , Dr is surely redundant. Dr Mary Smith suggests that you are a medical person, I think; or at best it is ambiguous.  

  • Sep 22, 2015
natkretep said: The British style is not to use the full stops: Mary Smith, PhD - and if you include PhD , Dr is surely redundant. Dr Mary Smith suggests that you are a medical person, I think; or at best it is ambiguous. Click to expand...

Those aren't business cards. That page is put together by someone else who chooses to use a title with the names.  

But does it mean I should use "Dr" (or Dr.) on linkedin and on my website? I supposed there's no difference between business cards and those other situations where you present yourself.  

Andygc

natkretep said: and if you include PhD , Dr is surely redundant. Click to expand...

I'm thinking of non-medical settings and representations by self, rather than representations by others. I can't comment about medical settings. In academic settings, to include both the title and the degree in self-representations smacks of someone 'trying too hard' and not being subtle about it. It's a little like how when you introduce yourself, you don't include your title; you wait for others to accord you that honour, as it were.  

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Let me get this straight - Dr title.

If your have a PHD this confers the title Dr. Which you should not put on your email or business cards (either as Dr or PHD and most definitely not both!). In academia the title is redundant, in industry the title makes you pompous. But above all, in the mega rare instance someone needs a quick bit of CPR at 30,000 feet the MD takes exclusive entitlement of the title for all other occasions?. So why if all this is true, is there any point in the term 'doctorate' in a PHD?

;-p Good point.

Avatar for DrCorinne

Quote From DrStrangelove: If your have a PHD this confers the title Dr. Which you should not put on your email or business cards (either as Dr or PHD and most definitely not both!). Really???! Where did you get this piece of news? Never heard of it! In academia the title is redundant, in industry the title makes you pompous. I don't think so. I don't know in which country you leave/ work, but I can assure you that the Dr title still carries a lot of weight, especially if you work in academia. Actually, especially now, I don't think that you would be considered for any academic job without that little word in front of your name! So why if all this is true, is there any point in the term 'doctorate' in a PHD? Yes, because it comes from the Latin Doctus (past participle of Docere= to teach).

Strange as it sounds; all these points come up when you look at Phd etiquette online. Admittedly mostly in the US where they seem hugely egalitarian. Personally I will use the title, but also be mindful not to abuse it. I dont want people to think im all that. But equally I dont want to hide it like a dirty secret! Like many a student I feel it a reasonable reward for the monumental effort involved.

Quote From DrStrangelove: Personally I will use the title, but also be mindful not to abuse it. I dont want people to think im all that. But equally I dont want to hide it like a dirty secret! Like many a student I feel it a reasonable reward for the monumental effort involved. Absolutely, I agree with you. It can be difficult to get the balance right, and it also depends on the environment you work/ live in etc. Some of my colleagues put the title even on their credit cards. I didn't - I feel that it would be too much (and surely the shop assistant doesn't care at all about it!). I suppose that it is a personal choice, you have to do what suits you best in the end, and things can be adjusted depending on the situation.

Perhaps DrStrangelove should also be changed to Strangelove. It is simply redundant here.

Lol, exactly!

Avatar for Mackem_Beefy

Quote From DrStrangelove: If your have a PHD this confers the title Dr. Which you should not put on your email or business cards (either as Dr or PHD and most definitely not both!). In academia the title is redundant, in industry the title makes you pompous. But above all, in the mega rare instance someone needs a quick bit of CPR at 30,000 feet the MD takes exclusive entitlement of the title for all other occasions?. So why if all this is true, is there any point in the term 'doctorate' in a PHD? These are my current views almost to a tee. The one point I would differ is a PhD in academia does still ease upward progression as it infers (though does not necessarily mean) proven research ability. I simply don't use the title. I'm just bog standard 'Mackem_Beefy' and not 'Dr Mackem_Beefy'. It is on my bank card, but that is the only place (i.e. a sort of proof I have the qualification if challenged). Professional qualifications are more useful on a CV or business card to be honest (i.e. ProfGradIMMM, Chartered status, etc.). The PhD for me was a major high intensity project I did for the personal challenge, the opportunity to make new findings and provide a significant, original contribution to my field. Anyone going into it thinking it will help them professionally will realise unless they stay in academia, that it does not help greatly (perhaps one example where it might is Pharmacy) and even hinder if you later return to the real world. I had major problems returning to employment in the real world after my PhD and two post-docs. If you are looking to progess in the real world, you're better looking at a good ''vocational'' masters in your chosen field (or a technical conversion course if you find your humanities degree is holding you back) to help your CV stand out and show your capabilities. If you're going to do a PhD, do it for the right reasons.

Also, using in a real world context is dangerous if someone needs urgent medical treatment. I know of a case where an academic was pulled out of bed to treat an hart attack victim whilst hotel staff was waiting for an ambulance. It didn't go down too well with the hotel and their interpretation was 'Dr.' inferred medical expertise. I wonder if PhDs should have a compulsory first aid course to cover this potential eventuality. It would only take a couple of days out of their studies. :-) Finally, the opening poster is correct. You can call youself "Dr. Joe Bloggs" or "Joe Bloggs PhD", but not "Dr Joe Blogs PhD". This latter form infers you're doctor twice, which is a misrepresentation. If titles have to be used, I prefer the "Joe Blogs PhD" representation, as this clearly differentiates you from a medical doctor ("Joe Bloggs M.D.") thus preventing the mix up the above academic experiences. The 'safer' qualification after the name representation is fairly standard in North America. Ian (Mackem_Beefy)

Quote From DrStrangelove: Strange as it sounds; all these points come up when you look at Phd etiquette online. Admittedly mostly in the US where they seem hugely egalitarian. Personally I will use the title, but also be mindful not to abuse it. I dont want people to think im all that. But equally I dont want to hide it like a dirty secret! Like many a student I feel it a reasonable reward for the monumental effort involved. I agree it should not be abused. Unfortunately in the UK at least, I've found it in some ways to be a dirty secret. It seems at times achievement is something that makes you a target to be shot down or at least brought down to earth with a big bump. Even if it is not the intention, in the UK if you stand out somehow it seems to some you're setting yourself up as someone 'better' than everyone else and thus some people see this as a green light to have a go at you. Sorry about the three separate messages. I'm just trying to answer different aspects of this discussion. The word limit doesn't help at times. :-) Ian (Mackem_Beefy)

Ian, thanks for the great posts and adding to the discussion. What are your veiws on professional doctorates like the DEng/EngD. This is more of an applied qualification, based in industry. Is the use of Dr Engineer still a no no in a relevant domain and setting?

Quote From DrStrangelove: Ian, thanks for the great posts and adding to the discussion. What are your veiws on professional doctorates like the DEng/EngD. This is more of an applied qualification, based in industry. Is the use of Dr Engineer still a no no in a relevant domain and setting? My arguments with an EngD are the same as for PhD. Use only sparingly in a professional context. I'd once again personally see your professional qualifications. The only time I'd reasonably expect to see 'PhD' or 'EngD' is on a CV. The only time I'd expect to hear 'Dr.' or 'Prof' for that matter is probably the introduction of an 'esteemed' speaker at a conference. Otherwise, who really gives a $#!+ what you do or what others do? My friends after teasing me when I was awarded the PhD (one of them annoyingly so) have long since reverted to 'Mr.' Also, the direction my life has taken since I got it means the PhD is now a complete irrelevance to my life. I'm still glad I did it for the personal challenge, but it has no bearing on who I am and what I do now. There isn't any point in using either 'Dr.' or 'PhD'. Ian (Mackem_Beefy)

I really have a problem with some of the replies here, which are speaking from a non-academia environment, or, I believe, speaking from outside the UK. In the UK the Dr title is *not* redundant in an academic environment. Though when it is used it should be Dr John Smith, not Dr John Smith PhD. So if you are working as an academic of course it can be on your business cards. I do not use my title outside academia, but I do have it on my bank card. The reason is that it gives me extra ID with my doctorness on it, which can be useful. But I never speak to any banking person who would see it, so it never comes up in that kind of conversation. Nor does it come up in any shop setting, because I'm the one bunging the card in the Chip and PIN unit. I am a non-affiliated academic, due to severely disabling progressive neurological disease. But I have an honorary research fellowship (ongoing, probably for life), and am pursuing an academic path as much as I can, as an independent academic historian, publishing academic journal papers, speaking at academic conferences, and taking part in my university department's research community. In no way in any of these settings is my 'Dr' redundant. I think the situation is very different for anyone working outside academia, and it can be different in other countries. But do not make broad claims for its misuse in academia in the UK.

Personally I can't wait to get the Dr title and I shall definitely be using it. I want to stay in academia anyway so maybe it's more relevant but even if it's not I will have earned it and therefore will be using it :)

Quote From TreeofLife: Personally I can't wait to get the Dr title and I shall definitely be using it. I want to stay in academia anyway so maybe it's more relevant but even if it's not I will have earned it and therefore will be using it :) I am with you on that one. I worked hard for my PhD, it was a major achievement and I do use the title (Just like you TreeofLife I couldn't wait to get that title!). I don't know whether it is superfluous outside of an academic environment but I can't think of one occasion it has been detrimental. I am no longer a researcher but I do work in a university setting and I think it does carry some weight.

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How the MS in Management Fosters a Spirit of Entrepreneurship

Kaieem (Kai) Caesar

If you strive to succeed as an entrepreneur, you have a lot in common with Kaieem (Kai) Caesar — even if you never played college athletics like he did.

During his time at Ohio University, Kai excelled on the football field and in the classroom. He earned a bachelor's degree and two graduate degrees, including a Master of Science in Management (MSM) .

The online MSM program energized his passion for entrepreneurship. With guidance from OHIO's dedicated faculty and academic advisors, Kai capitalized on opportunities that prepared him to lead new business ventures — and you can do the same.

OHIO's Impact on Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Every student entrepreneur in OHIO's MSM program has a personal story to tell, and Kai's is quite interesting.

Born in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Kai moved to Oklahoma as a child and began playing football in middle school. His abilities flourished as he progressed from middle to high school, and he eventually became a defensive tackle at OHIO, where he grew as a leader on and off the field.

"We all come from different backgrounds," Kai said, reflecting on his journey to OHIO and the MSM program. If you asked him for advice on how to succeed in the program, he would say to consider your past to find your purpose as a student and aspiring entrepreneur:

"You're here for a reason. That's the number one thing. Find that reason before you do anything else."

Conversations with Dr. Amy Taylor-Bianco — or "Dr. B." to her students — helped Kai identify his purpose. Dr. B. is the MSM Program Director, and she met with Kai to discuss what he could achieve in the program. This type of guidance helped him set professional goals for after he finished college and his football career.

"I sat down and made a plan instead of, four years from now, still trying to figure out what I would try to do in my life," Kai said.

His plan included developing competencies for careers in entrepreneurship and other business sectors. "A lot of employers want experienced people," he said, noting that many college students must gain hands-on experience to qualify for open positions. Fortunately, as Kai said, "The MSM program gives us that experience."

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Why Is OHIO's Online MSM Program Beneficial to Entrepreneurs?

Through the online MSM program, Kai was able to customize the coursework for his goals. The curriculum includes a Management and Leadership Graduate Certificate and allows students to choose two additional online business certificates that align with multiple career paths.

"Being an entrepreneur has been a part of me since I was a kid," Kai said. So, it's no surprise that he selected the Business Venturing and Entrepreneurship certificate, which opened his eyes to the experience of owning a business:

 "Going through this process and seeing how I could structure everything, it allowed me to think about, if I had a business right now, how I would want to be as a leader."

Through the Business Venturing and Entrepreneurship certificate, Kai gained opportunities to plan multiple aspects of launching and managing an enterprise. These hands-on experiences required him to wear many hats as he developed valuable skills for starting and overseeing organizations as an entrepreneur.

"In the MSM program, I learned how to interact and connect with other business professionals, such as people in sales and acquisitions," Kai said. The coursework went beyond private-sector endeavors, as he learned about grant writing and other initiatives relevant to managing a nonprofit.

In addition to the Business Venturing and Entrepreneurship certificate, Kai earned a Business Analytics certificate. "This third certificate helped me understand the backend aspects of companies, so that I could analyze and determine what the company needs to move forward," he said. Moreover, developing knowledge of AI and other emerging technologies would help him create strategies that align with the future of business.

Why Is Personal Growth Important to Entrepreneurs?

While leadership and decision-making skills are essential to success in entrepreneurship, it's also important to commit to personal growth. According to an Industry Leaders article, "Starting and running a business requires a great deal of personal development and growth — and the entrepreneurial journey can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and improvement along the way."

Much of Kai's growth as a student stemmed from tackling personal challenges. During his first year as an undergraduate at OHIO, his academic performance floundered. So, he worked with an advisor to plan his comeback, aiming to prioritize school and raise his grades to a high level.

This experience motivated him to commit to academic excellence for the rest of his collegiate career. In fact, he received various academic accolades as a student at OHIO, including recognition on the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Honor Roll in 2018 and the Diversity and Inclusion Student-Athlete Award in 2022.

"I just wanted to create a business mindset," Kai said, referring to his interest in making his academic experience translate to professional advancement. At the same time, he set personal growth goals that would aid his development as an entrepreneur. For instance, Kai is known for his strong leadership abilities, and he strived to extend them further by setting positive examples for his teammates and classmates. To achieve that goal, he challenged himself to lead with actions that would inspire the people around him to prioritize their own personal growth.

"That way, they could see that we are all in this together. It's all about developing that mindset and applying it," Kai said. In addition to having a positive influence on his teammates and classmates, he experienced personal growth that will serve him well as an entrepreneur.

Empower Your Entrepreneurial Spirit at Ohio University

In the MSM program, Kai learned how to plan a new business and harness innovations that can improve the operations of companies of every size, from startups and small businesses to global corporations. By offering multiple certificate options, the program enabled him to customize his education around his goals. Or, as Kai described it:

"This program allowed me to do things my way."

If you want to follow in Kai's footsteps by acquiring an entrepreneurial mindset and leadership abilities, pursue your Master of Science in Management degree online at OHIO. Dr. B. and our other dedicated faculty members will provide a comprehensive and transformative journey that emphasizes professional and personal development. The online courses offer the convenience that professionals need, in a supportive environment with networking and executive mentorship opportunities. To learn more, request information today .

Kaieem (Kai) Caesar

About Kaieem Caesar 

Kaieem is a 2022 graduate of the Master of Science in Management program at Ohio University. He played defensive tackle for the Ohio Bobcats, serving as defensive team captain for three seasons and capping his football career with an overtime victory in the Arizona Bowl in 2022. At OHIO, he earned a bachelor's in communication studies (2020) and master's degrees in management (2022) and crisis communication (2023). He was born in the U.S. Virgin Islands and later moved to Oklahoma, where his passion for football began. His accomplishments as a Bobcat include the development of nonprofit organizations and receiving the MAC Diversity and Inclusion Student-Athlete Award in 2022. 

Related Resources

  • Benefits of Choosing an Online MSM Degree
  • MSM vs. MBA: What is the Best Master’s Degree for Managers?
  • How an Online Master's Degree Benefits Student-Athletes

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Vincent O. van Empeh, Ph.D.

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Dr. Vincent van Empeh teaches Marketing, Business Administration and Management and Entrepreneurship courses at the School of Business. He is also the Lead Faculty Advisor for the Capstone Project in the Master of Business Leadership and Design (MS SLD) Program at the Graduate School of Business, University of Indianapolis.

Dr. van Empeh holds a Ph.D. in Applied Management and Decision Sciences (Finance), an MBA in Global Management, a Graduate Degree in Economics, and a BS in Public Administration and Economics. As a scholar-practitioner, his crossover expertise between the business field and academia spans over 25 years in three industries: airline, banking and higher education management.

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Meet Bill and Melinda Gates' Gen Z daughter Phoebe, a Stanford graduate and activist who's dating Paul McCartney's grandson

  • Phoebe Gates, 21, is the youngest daughter of Bill and Melinda Gates. 
  • She has over 240,000 followers on TikTok, where she posts about her life and passions. 
  • The Stanford graduate has her eye on a career in fashion and is dating Paul McCartney's grandson.

Insider Today

As one of the richest people in the world, Bill Gates is a household name, and now we're getting to know his youngest daughter, 21-year-old Phoebe, too.

Through her social-media pages, Phoebe Gates has been sharing her life with her hundreds of thousands of followers, from her stances on national issues to videos of bubble-tea dates with her dad.

With parents like Bill and Melinda Gates , it's no surprise that she appears to be an overachiever: This month, she graduated from Stanford University after wrapping up her degree in three years. She's already teased the release of her sustainable fashion tech platform, has attended fashion weeks around the globe, and has become an outspoken social activist. Oh, and she's dating Paul McCartney's grandson.

Here's what we know about her life and interests based on what she's shared on TikTok.

Phoebe Gates is the youngest daughter of Bill and Melinda Gates.

phd or ph.d. on business card

Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates, who married in 1994 and divorced in 2021, have three children: Jennifer, 28, Rory, 25, and Phoebe, 21. The children all went to Seattle's Lakeside School , a private high school their father also attended, and are now on different trajectories.

Jennifer is a decorated equestrian who just graduated from medical school, while Rory is a congressional analyst, according to a 2023 Puck report. While her brother stays out of the spotlight, Phoebe is sharing her life online, and has ambitions in the fashion industry.

The three Gates children will inherit at least some of their parents' wealth: Bill Gates has said he plans to leave them "only" $10 million each.

"I definitely think leaving kids massive amounts of money is not a favor to them," Gates said in a 2013 Reddit "Ask Me Anything." "Warren Buffett was part of an article in Fortune talking about this in 1986 before I met him, and it made me think about it and decide he was right."

Today, nearly five decades after cofounding Microsoft, Bill Gates has a fortune of about $134 billion, according to Forbes . He left Microsoft's board in 2020 — although is still reportedly "intimately involved" at the company — and has remained focused on the Gates Foundation, which he once ran with French Gates . She also  became a billionaire following their divorce.

She shares glimpses of her parents on her social media pages, which have accumulated hundreds of thousands of followers.

phd or ph.d. on business card

As of June 2024, Phoebe Gates has 424,000 followers on Instagram and 244,000 followers on TikTok.

A day after posting a video of her sharing bubble tea with her dad in October 2023, she gained over 59,000 TikTok followers, according to analytics website Social Blade .

"Father-daughter bubble tea time," read a caption under the TikTok post.

In the clip, which has received 16.7 million views on TikTok and uses "As It Was" by Harry Styles as a backing track, Phoebe sits opposite her billionaire father as they both poke straws into cups of bubble tea and smile at one another overlooking a Manhattan skyline.

Bill Gates has made appearances on other creators' TikTok accounts in the past, often participating in math or art challenges, although he does not have an account himself.

Gates just graduated from Stanford University, and she has previously vlogged about her college life.

phd or ph.d. on business card

In an interview with the sustainable fashion brand Reformation, which Gates promoted on her Instagram page in March 2023, the billionaire's daughter said she was majoring in human biology at Stanford University. 

She has previously showcased her dorm room and filmed vlog-style updates about her life at college. In one clip posted in December 2022, she filmed herself riding a bike to a stats class, later showing herself making a very student-esque pasta dish for dinner.

In June 2024, she graduated after just three years, Nylon reported. At the ceremony, her mom, Melinda Gates, gave the commencement speech.

Phoebe Gates blogged her day for Nylon, sharing that she celebrated the milestone with a party attended by her mom and dad.

"So grateful to have my parents by my side on this day," she wrote.

She is passionate about sustainable fashion and is pursuing entrepreneurial opportunities in the industry.

phd or ph.d. on business card

On TikTok, Gates has previously posted about attending fashion week in Copenhagen and New York. She has also shared informational clips about sustainable fashion and promoted buying secondhand clothes. 

According to Vogue , Gates is co-launching her own fashion platform, called Phia, with her fellow Stanford student and roommate Sophia Kianni (pictured above left). The outlet reported that it has already landed a partnership with fashion house Stella McCartney for a bag collection that will celebrate women in tennis.

Gates has become an outspoken social activist.

phd or ph.d. on business card

One of the topics Gates has frequently addressed on her TikTok page is reproductive health and advocating for abortion rights.

She has previously posted clips of herself speaking about access to contraception at events , including Goalkeepers , hosted by The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

In a video she shared in December, her mother asked her why she was an advocate for reproductive health.

"I think for me, coming for age in this country, our generation has been put in a spot where a lot of times we feel quite a bit powerless," Phoebe Gates said. "You know, not having the freedom to make choices about your own reproductive health, your own ... your very own body."

She also spoke out on TikTok against the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade in June 2022.

In the summer of 2022, she also posted clips that she said were from a trip to Rwanda with the healthcare nonprofit Partners in Health, saying she learned about the country's healthcare system.

She appears to be following in her mom's footsteps, calling her an "inspiration."

phd or ph.d. on business card

The 21-year-old activist appears to be taking after her parents, especially her mother, who has advocated for access to birth control around the world for many years.

While Bill Gates appears in only a few of her TikToks, her mom has been featured much more prominently on her account. 

Phoebe Gates has posted several snippets on TikTok that show her discussing access to contraception with Melinda. 

"So you're a huge advocate for contraceptives. I mean, you've always hammered this into me since I was a child, about deciding for my body and having body autonomy," Phoebe Gates said in a clip posted in January 2023, where Melinda talked about the importance of access to family planning.

In an on-screen caption on a TikTok post from September 2022, Gates referred to her mother as her "inspiration." 

She is dating Paul McCartney's grandson, Arthur.

phd or ph.d. on business card

In her June 2024 graduation diary for Nylon, Gates shared photos of herself with her boyfriend, Arthur Donald. Alongside one of the images, she joked that he "cleans up nicely," while in another, he carried her on his back.

Donald, 25, is the oldest of Paul McCartney's eight grandchildren, People reported. He is the son of the Beatles' star's daughter Mary and her ex-husband, Alistair Donald.

He grew up in London and attended Yale University, according to People. He is an investor at the Collaborative Fund, a venture capital firm "for entrepreneurs pushing the world forward," according to its website .

Gates and Donald were also pictured together at the premiere of "Feud: Capote vs. The Swans" held in New York City in January.

phd or ph.d. on business card

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phd or ph.d. on business card

ICAR AIEEA PG, AICE JRF, SRF admit cards out. Direct link to download here

The national testing agency (nta) has released the admit cards for the icar aieea pg and aice-jrf/srf (phd) 2024 examinations. here is the step-by-step guide to downloading the icar aieea pg, aice phd exam 2024 admit cards..

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ICAR AIEEA PG, AICE PhD Exam 2024 admit cards released, direct link here

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has released the admit cards for the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) - All India Entrance Examination for Admission (AIEEA) - PG and All India Competitive Examinations (AICE) - JRF/SRF (PhD) 2024. Candidates who have registered can download their admit cards by entering their Registration ID and Password on the official website, exams.nta.ac.in.

HOW TO DOWNLOAD ICAR AIEEA PG/AICE PhD Admit Card 2024

1. Go to exams.nta.ac.in, the official website. 2. Find and click on the ICAR exam page on the homepage. 3. Look for the AIEEA or AICE admit card download link. 4. Enter your login credentials to access your account. 5. Once logged in, view and verify your admit card details. 6. Download the admit card in PDF format. 7. Print a copy of the admit card for your records.

Note: Please note, that issuance of the admit card does not guarantee eligibility, as further scrutiny of eligibility will occur during subsequent stages of the admission process.

The ICAR AIEEA (PG) and AICE-JRF/SRF (PhD) are national-level entrance examinations that determine admission to Master's and PhD programs, respectively, in agricultural universities across India.

Newport Harbor graduate kicks off business with a splash — and a slide

Landon Leguina stands by an inflatable bounce house.

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When he was growing up, Landon Leguina’s mother always rented out inflatable water slides for his June birthday parties. Between those and the parties organized on his street for the kids and neighbors to connect, those inflatable playsets held a lot of fond memories for him.

Now 18, he hopes to be able to facilitate those memories for other kids too.

Leguina, a recent Newport Harbor High School graduate, officially launched his business — Splash n Slide — in the spring of this year and was booked for two parties so far, with more on the way as the summer gets into full swing.

He said he’s been thinking about starting the business for at least two years, after talking about entrepreneurship with his step-father.

“I’ve always been interested in [the slides and bounce houses] since I was a kid, so we got the idea, but we stepped forward on it last summer. But I’d ended up being gone a lot, so I wasn’t able to put in as much time and effort as I wanted to. That’s why this spring and summer, it’s really been my focus,” Leguina said.

Landon Leguina, a recent Newport Harbor graduate from Costa Mesa recently launched Splash and Slide.

“I really started in February, so we could be set up for spring and summer, which would be what I thought was my busier season. I started making stickers, making fliers, going door-to-door. And, we had some great leads,” he said. “I got a small personal loan from my mom that I’m paying back now, but we bought a water slide and a bounce house after I did some research.”

Now, Leguina said he’s the proud owner of four water slides. Depending on the size requested and the dates of parties, all-day rentals are around $150 on average for bounce houses and $350 on average for the water slides. He said he negotiates costs with customers and that his business sometimes rolls out discounts.

For his part, Leguina said he does a lot of the business on his own, having learned through YouTube videos and asking questions. Deployment is another story. Sometimes friends he’s hired will help him transport the slides and set them up at venues because of the sheer weight and size.

Landon Leguina, a recent Newport Harbor graduate from Costa Mesa recently launched Splash n Slide.

Sometimes, he uses the slides and bounce houses to host events in his own neighborhood — his way of giving back.

“I do really enjoy working for a service, especially a local one. I feel good about knowing that kids will have fun because I used to be in those shoes. I remember how much I loved them for my birthdays and I enjoy knowing that I can do that for other people,” Leguina said. “The other side of that is that I can see myself being entrepreneurial. This whole experience has been really beneficial for me, and I like learning how to run a business better so that I can set myself up for the future.”

Leguina said he’s heading to Orange Coast College in the fall, where he’ll be studying communications and business. He added he hopes to continue running the business locally even after he transfers to another school.

He said he has other business ideas he wants to eventually pursue, but that it’s his wish to keep Splash n Slide going for as long as he can. He encourages other young business-minded people to try to chase their ideas if they feel true passion for them.

“The longer you wait, the harder it’ll become. The earlier you start, the better you can set up. But it’s definitely not easy,” he said with a laugh.

Landon Leguina, a recent Newport Harbor graduate from Costa Mesa.

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phd or ph.d. on business card

Lilly Nguyen covers Newport Beach for the Daily Pilot. Before joining the Pilot, she worked for the Orange County Register as a freelance reporter and general assignment intern. She earned her bachelor’s in journalism at Cal State Long Beach. (714) 966-4623.

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Is a business card necessary for a graduate student?

I know some PhD students have their own business cards, but I don't know if it is a standard practice for PhD students to have their own business cards. I think a business card can be useful for networking in conference or collaborating with some industrial partners. So, is are business cards necessary for a PhD student or other graduate students attending conferences?

PS: in case it is field-specific, I would like to know the different practices in different fields

Fomite's user avatar

  • 2 MSc research students who may attend conferences, seminars or workshops may also be interested in this question. May be "Is a business card necessary for a research student?" –  enthu Commented Jun 29, 2014 at 11:57

8 Answers 8

It's probably discipline-specific, but I hand mine out all the time. That being said, I talk to lots of vendors of computer hardware that I want to get back in touch with, so exchanging cards is helpful. As a grad student, it might be worth having some small cards from someone like Moo that have your name, email, affiliation, and a link to your website. It might be easier to hand those out than to carry 20 preprints of your article when you're giving a talk.

All that being said, it'd be pretty unusual to push your cards on people you meet at conferences. If someone asks for your information, or a copy of your publication, you might offer the card, but I wouldn't volunteer it unless you've been asked for something. It's just not part of the culture in most of the fields I have experience with for students to do so.

Bill Barth's user avatar

  • 7 Before designing and buying your own cards, ask if your university provides them for free with its corporate design. –  Federico Poloni Commented Jun 29, 2014 at 9:07
  • 1 It's worth asking, but my experience is that they aren't free for students. –  Bill Barth Commented Jun 29, 2014 at 12:14
  • 1 @BillBarth In Europe, where PhD students are also employees, most universities seem to print business cards for students as well. In general, if you want to have a business card as a PhD student, I would really try to get one with the university corporate identity. –  xLeitix Commented Jun 30, 2014 at 9:03
  • 1 @xLeitix in parts of Europe, where phd students are also employees ;-) Here in .uk, PhD students are not employed, and the practice varies - some universities issue them, and others do not. Mine doesn't, so I made my own - and because they're well-designed and not corporate they usually get noticed and receive positive comments. –  Flyto Commented Jun 30, 2014 at 9:43
  • 1 My department reimburses PhD students for the cost of business cards. (Also, my university does not allow its logo to be used on self-designed cards) –  ff524 Commented Jul 1, 2014 at 1:23

As a PhD student, I had business cards and never used them. Now I don't even have cards. I consider them a relict from different times. I would say nobody strictly needs a business card anymore, and I rarely see them being exchanged at conferences either.

Now, a homepage is a different story. You definitely need a homepage , for many of the reasons you think you may need a business card.

Community's user avatar

  • 9 i agree but i would add that while they may be a relic, there are still cultures that it is very important (korea/japan), so depending on where you are, or if going to a conference in that area, it may still be beneficial –  user-2147482637 Commented Jun 28, 2014 at 16:25
  • 1 @user1938107 This may be correct. About 90% of all business cards I have ever received are japanese. However, I think they generally understand when I tell them that I don't own any. –  xLeitix Commented Jun 28, 2014 at 16:44
  • 8 I still see quite often people writing down each other's names and e-mail addresses at conferences. Business cards would be a way to make this process faster and lower the barrier for exchanging contact details. –  Federico Poloni Commented Jun 28, 2014 at 17:44
  • When there are some websites like LinkedIn, ResearchGate and etc., why the person needs to pay and make an on-line homepage for himself. I agree with the first part of your answer that being on-line is beneficial to the researcher, but there are some useful websites that the researcher can use, make connections and present his research activity and CV. –  enthu Commented Jun 30, 2014 at 8:19
  • @Parsa First, you should not have to pay your own web page. Any institution I know of provides web space for researcher home pages. Second, relying on LinkedIn or RG is a surefire way not to be taken seriously in my community. I strongly recommend against that. –  xLeitix Commented Jun 30, 2014 at 8:48

If there's any chance that you're going to be interacting with industry at conferences or other events, you need business cards. It's part of that culture. If there's any chance you'll be interacting with anybody from the far East, you need business cards (and ideally, a briefing on the etiquette of giving and receiving them).

Within academia (and not in the far east), it may depend on your field. Coming from a commercial background I was surprised to find that they aren't used in the same "scattergun" way in mine; but it can still save time with scribbling details, and a good card, offered appropriately, may make meeting you stand out in the fog of somebody's post-conference memory.

Summary: it's worth having some, but try to judge what is "normal" before pressing them on people.

Flyto's user avatar

This probably varies from country to country, but given that business cards can be had for the cost of running off-the-shelf preperforated stock through your computer, I think it's worth having a few. It does make handing your contact info to someone easier, plus giving you and/or them a surface upon which to scribble a note about why they should contact you.

And at least around here, many restaurants collect business cards as tickets for a free-lunch lottery. Trade shows may also use them as lottery entries.

Yes, e-mail addresses are starting to replace business cards as e-mail becomes an acceptable replacement for postal mail and phones, and smartphones can be used to enter contact info into a website.... But it isn't a complete replacement yet, and may never be.

And I find I use them informally as well, when I want someone I've just met to contact me about something.

Recommendation: Spend a small amount to print off a few, see how quickly you're using them, use that to guide how many more you obtain, how often, how many you should bother carrying at once, and how much effort you should put into the card's aesthetics.

  • 3 "e-mail addresses are starting to replace business cards" I disagree: e-mail addresses are the content you want to communicate, not the medium. It's like saying that microwave ovens are replacing beef meat. :) –  Federico Poloni Commented Jun 29, 2014 at 9:06
  • 1 @FedericoPoloni: Exactly. Or, in other words, I frequently use (both giving and receiving) business cards (also in an academic context, conferences and such) with the very purpose of exchanging the e-mail address. –  O. R. Mapper Commented Jun 29, 2014 at 10:00
  • Granted... but business cards can carry more information than just the e-mail address; they commonly provide name, title, phone number, sometimes mailing address... as well as e-mail. The reason I called e-mail an alternative is that folks have become more comfortable with only collecting e-mail addresses (which are short enough to quickly write down) and gathering the rest of the info later. –  keshlam Commented Jun 29, 2014 at 13:03
  • 1 "as e-mail becomes an acceptable replacement for postal mail" What is this? The 1990s? I don't think I've written a paper-letter in a professional context in the last five years. If you exclude job applications before they were all online, I don't think I've written one ever. –  David Richerby Commented Jun 29, 2014 at 22:44
  • As I said, it depends on what community -- and country -- you're dealing with. –  keshlam Commented Jun 29, 2014 at 22:46

In 15 years in academia (theoretical computer science, UK and Greece, plus conferences and workshops in several different countries in Europe and North America), the closest I've come to a business card was when somebody I'd befriended at a conference gave me a card for his hobby photography website. I've never had business cards printed and, to the best of my knowledge, nor have any of my colleagues.

David Richerby's user avatar

In the US, at least in doctoral psychology programs, we're often encouraged to have business cards to hand out at conferences. Conferences are often seen as a way to start building connections for internship, and a business card is a simple way to come across as polished and prepared (it's also less likely to be lost than a slip of paper, as I've seen faculty slip my card into a card holder). Further, my mentor does a great deal of field research in health clinics, and it's helpful for her students to have cards with their contact information readily available when coordinating with site staff.

In my department, our academic mentors typically pay for the cards, which are designed with the school's logo, just like the faculty members' cards. However, most of us wait until we have received our MS as part of our program requirements. We don't attend as many conferences pre-MS anyways, and since they're ordered in bulk (250 minimum) that way you don't have a large number of unused cards. In sum, it's not necessary to have business cards, but it can be helpful.

user30295's user avatar

This may depend on the country. In some countries, PhD candidates are employees of the university just like anyone else employed there, and thus get (or can get, upon request) any number of business cards printed from their office supplies department at any time. Thus, in such places, the effort of getting one's hands on business cards is virtually non-existent and hence there, it is a standard practice.

As implied by other answers, handing out business cards greatly simplifies establishing contact with other researchers on conferences, which is one of the main benefits one can draw from attending a conference.

In terms of establishing contact, I have only ever met two kinds of people on CS conferences - those that had their business cards ready and could thus easily provide some contact info at the end of a fruitful conversation and the agreement to keep in touch or exchange some further information, and those that did not, that would instead start a cumbersome search for something to write, use the back of someone else's business card (!) or require the recipient to find some suitable virtual place in whichever electronic device they currently have nearby to store the address, and remark that they "should really print some business cards for the next conference".

O. R. Mapper's user avatar

I'm in the biomedical and clinical sciences (Epidemiology in particular) and I regularly hand out 5 to 10 business cards at the average conference I've gone to, and often get just as many. I tend not to actually engage with industry that much, but they're an excellent, quick way to give someone your contact information in a way that's about as non-disruptive as possible. They're also harder to lose than scraps of paper, and as someone else mentioned, easier to keep track of - business card holders can not only hold your business card, but the cards of others.

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phd or ph.d. on business card

IMAGES

  1. 9 Correct Ways to Write PhD Title on a Business Card

    phd or ph.d. on business card

  2. PH. D. Business Card

    phd or ph.d. on business card

  3. PhD business card

    phd or ph.d. on business card

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    phd or ph.d. on business card

  5. PhD business card

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  6. PhD

    phd or ph.d. on business card

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  1. Ph.D.

  2. nobels ph-d analog phaser

  3. Ph.D and Research

  4. Central University of South Bihar PhD Admission form kaise bhare, government College Fellowship#phd

  5. PHD . POOR CITY

  6. Dance Your PhD 2008 *WINNER* Brian Stewart

COMMENTS

  1. What title to put on a professional business card, for a person with a PhD

    Is there a correct or preferred format for indicating 'Dr' or 'PhD' (or both) on a professional business card. Background: I am employed in the industry and I have just earned my PhD (in social science). My company wants to update my business card. The following are two options: Dr Name, PhD, University Name ; Name, PhD, University Name

  2. 9 Correct Ways to Write PhD Title on a Business Card

    Writing a Ph.D. title on your business card can be a great thing to include. However, there are a few ways to write it, and it would help to know which ones work best. This article will explore some of the best options. The preferred choices are "name, Ph.D. in discipline name," "name, Ph.D.," and "Dr. name.".

  3. Should I Write Ph.D. or PhD? (Complete Guide)

    The only slight difference is that "PhD" is more common in England and "Ph.D." is more common in America. This is perhaps because the British believe it stands for "philosophiae doctor" but Americans see it as "Doctor of Philosophy". But, no matter whether you use "PhD" or "Ph.D.", to have one, you neither need to be a ...

  4. How to use the PhD title and all the little doctorate "rules"

    When writing a name with a PhD after it, the correct way to do so is to use "PhD" or "Ph.D. or Ph.D". Depending on the preference of the individual, either form can be used. However, if the individual has a business card that states their degree in full, then the more formal "Doctor of Philosophy" should be used.

  5. For those of you with a PhD, what's on your business card? Are ...

    On my business card I currently put my PhD as a post-nominal (i.e. NAME, PhD) instead of as an honorific (i.e. Dr NAME). I was recently approached by our head of communications asking to explain/justify why I chose not to put the Dr title on my business card or email signature. My reasons are a bit vague but include elements of not wanting to ...

  6. phd

    6. The point of a business card is to provide contact details. Even though some people might consider it to be outdated, it still has uses; for instance during the poster sessions some people hang envelopes to which you can drop your card for more information or a pdf of the poster.

  7. PhD Candidate Business Cards: Making a Lasting Impression in the

    1. Your Name and Degree. Make sure your full name is prominently displayed on the card. As a PhD candidate, it's also important to indicate your degree in progress. You can include "PhD Candidate" or "Doctoral Candidate" below your name. This helps establish your credibility and expertise, allowing others to recognize your academic ...

  8. Necessity of Business Cards for PhD Students in 2024

    A business card for PhD students is a small, professionally designed card that contains essential contact information, academic titles, and optional elements such as research interests, and serves as a tangible representation of a PhD student's professional identity. It is a tool used to facilitate networking, establish credibility, and make ...

  9. Professional designations and degrees on business cards and e-mail

    For a while I had actually two set of business cards, one with the PhD and one with PhD off. PhD is useful in Europe and when interacting with the press and public communication. PhD in day to day business in the US feels pretentious so it's better to leave it off. Business cards are cheap, so there is no problem in carrying two sets.

  10. phd

    I can't think of a scenario where a PhD student would benefit from business cards over a digital connection. (Post-PhD scenarios may arise.) Nonetheless, if you do decide to have business cards, you can list your highest degree and your job title, e.g., Emma, MSc. Doctorate candidate, Department, University

  11. Ph.D. or PhD on business card

    The only reason that you would put Ph.D. is if you work in the bureaucracy or in the corporate world, where not everyone has a Ph.D. The only letters I generally see on academic and researchers cards are things like fellowships in the Academy of Sciences or a similar honor. "Blue Denim in their Veins".

  12. Student Business Cards

    Once you are logged in, click on the Student Business Card button. Select the quantity of cards you'd like to purchase—$52/250, $55/500, or $98/1,000. Click "Customize Order.". Fill in all necessary information. Required fields: Name, Degree Program, Phone Label 1, Phone 1, Email. Optional fields: Phone Label 2, Phone 2, Addresses 1 and 2.

  13. Which is correct Ph.D. or PhD? Answered. PhD and Ph.D Usage

    Examples of Ph.D. and PhD on business cards. Jane Fox, M.D., Ph.D. Adam Murphy, PhD; Charles Newman Ph.D. Candidate Department of Geology How to use Ph.D. in a sentence? Examples of PhD and Ph.D. usage in a sentence. John is currently working towards his PhD. Sylvia has a PhD in chemistry. A PhD is a postgraduate academic degree awarded by ...

  14. Should you put PhD candidate/student on your business cards?

    Or is it always appropriate. Examples below: John Doe, PhD candidate. John Doe, PhD in progress. John Doe, PhD student. John Doe, Postgraduate Researcher. John Doe. When your a PhD student/candidate what should you place, if anything, behind your name on your business cards? Or does it depend on your profession?

  15. mentioning credentials (MS, MBA, PMP) in your business card

    To my mind, PhD is appropriate on a business card or resume if your PhD work bears on the work that you are currently doing (or applying to do). There are a lot of people with PhDs in things like ...

  16. PhD on business cards

    Polish. Sep 6, 2015. #1. I've got a PhD in a non-medical field of study. I'm currently designing my business cards and asking myself whether it's normal to put my PhD on them and if yes, in what form. Mary Smith PhD. Mary Smith, PhD. Mary Smith Ph.D. Mary Smith, Ph.D.

  17. PhD Programs

    Students in our PhD programs are encouraged from day one to think of this experience as their first job in business academia—a training ground for a challenging and rewarding career generating rigorous, relevant research that influences practice. Our doctoral students work with faculty and access resources throughout HBS and Harvard University.

  18. Do you have business cards? : r/PhD

    As someone in industry, yes, PhD students with cards is good. I usually give mine and collect others throughout the day then go through and add everyone to LinkedIn at the end. Any little info is good because I rarely remember much about all the interactions so it gives me a little reminder who you are.

  19. What Can I Do With a Ph.D. In Business?

    Master's of Business (2 years): $40,000. Doctorate of Business (2 years): $50,000. This equates to a total expenditure of around $200,000 over 8 to10 years in order to obtain a Phd of Business. It should be noted however, that students can pursue more affordable tuitions that are much lower than these averages.

  20. Ph.D. Student Business Card Request

    Current Ph.D. students can request business cards from the Graduate Advising Team. Please complete the form embedded to the right, and one of the team members will complete your request soon. ... If you need business cards by a certain date, indicate this on the form. These requests will usually be fulfilled by the indicated date, even within ...

  21. Let me get this straight

    Quote From DrStrangelove: If your have a PHD this confers the title Dr. Which you should not put on your email or business cards (either as Dr or PHD and most definitely not both!). In academia the title is redundant, in industry the title makes you pompous. But above all, in the mega rare instance someone needs a quick bit of CPR at 30,000 ...

  22. Trump Says Foreigners Who Graduate From US Colleges Should Get Green Cards

    During the All-In podcast hosted by Silicon Valley tech investors, angel investor Jason Calacanis told Trump that the U.S. needs to be able to legally retain more high-skilled workers, a major ...

  23. Is it correct for a PhD holder to sign as "Dr. J. Doe, PhD"?

    12. There are two important points to note about name markers that refer to academic titles: You can have more than one of these markers in your name: Kay Doe, PhD, MD indicates a person who is both a doctor of philosophy and a doctor of medicine. The marker Dr. can very often be used as a variant of the post-positioned markers.

  24. Trump says he wants foreign nationals who graduate from US colleges to

    Former President Donald Trump proposed "automatically" giving green cards to foreign nationals who graduate from a US college - comments that break from his efforts to curb both legal and ...

  25. How Ohio University Fosters a Spirit of Entrepreneurship

    He earned a bachelor's degree and two graduate degrees, including a Master of Science in Management (MSM). The online MSM program energized his passion for entrepreneurship. With guidance from OHIO's dedicated faculty and academic advisors, Kai capitalized on opportunities that prepared him to lead new business ventures — and you can do the same.

  26. Vincent O. van Empeh, Ph.D.

    Dr. van Empeh holds a Ph.D. in Applied Management and Decision Sciences (Finance), an MBA in Global Management, a Graduate Degree in Economics, and a BS in Public Administration and Economics. As a scholar-practitioner, his crossover expertise between the business field and academia spans over 25 years in three industries: airline, banking and ...

  27. Meet Bill and Melinda Gates' Gen Z daughter Phoebe, a Stanford graduate

    Phoebe Gates, 21, is the youngest daughter of Bill and Melinda Gates. She has over 240,000 followers on TikTok, where she posts about her life and passions. The Stanford graduate has her eye on a ...

  28. ICAR AIEEA PG, AICE JRF, SRF admit cards out at exams.nta.ac.in/ICAR

    HOW TO DOWNLOAD ICAR AIEEA PG/AICE PhD Admit Card 2024. 1. Go to exams.nta.ac.in, the official website. 2. Find and click on the ICAR exam page on the homepage. 3. Look for the AIEEA or AICE admit card download link. 4. Enter your login credentials to access your account. 5. Once logged in, view and verify your admit card details. 6.

  29. Newport Harbor graduate kicks off business with a splash

    Leguina, a recent Newport Harbor High School graduate, officially launched his business — Splash n Slide — in the spring of this year and was booked for two parties so far, with more on the ...

  30. Is a business card necessary for a graduate student?

    We don't attend as many conferences pre-MS anyways, and since they're ordered in bulk (250 minimum) that way you don't have a large number of unused cards. In sum, it's not necessary to have business cards, but it can be helpful. Share. Improve this answer. Follow. answered Jun 29, 2014 at 12:36.