A Relational Approach to Impact: Reflections From a Lifetime ‘In the Field’

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingBook chapterCommunication

Abstract

Laura Empson reflects on her academic career, advocating for a relational, long-term approach to impactful research. Despite institutional discouragement, Empson integrated practitioner engagement into her work, developing mutually beneficial relationships that enhanced her research and its application. She critiques business schools’ transactional approach to impact, arguing that meaningful contributions require understanding practitioners’ needs and embedding impact into academic training and priorities. Through initiatives like tailored keynote speeches, advisory roles, books, and podcasts, Empson bridged academia and practice. She encourages researchers to pursue impact for its intrinsic value and calls on business schools to prioritise impact as integral to their mission.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationWomen In, and Beyond, Business Schools
EditorsEric Cornuel, Nicola Kleyn, Howard Thomas, Matthew Wood
Number of pages8
Place of PublicationBrussel
PublisherEFMD
Publication date27 Nov 2024
Pages129-136
Publication statusPublished - 27 Nov 2024
SeriesGlobal Focus
VolumeAnnual Research 2024
ISSN1784-2344

Bibliographical note

Epub ahead of print. Published online: 27 November 2024.

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