Success as a TTP requires something more than deep knowledge of the Tech Transfer process and mastery of the skills required. Success depends on the TTP’s mindset. With the right mindset, Tech Transfer is an exciting, fascinating, and fulfilling profession filled with interesting and good people, successful deal making, and even some real impact for inventors, the institution, and society. Without the right mindset, tech transfer is one failure after another, frustration and pointless activities, too much work and not enough pay. While many TTPs have a pretty good attitude, it is quite possible to change or improve it. Optimizing how we think about our job and the tasks that comprise it is a pathway to success for the TTP.
First, it is essential to know that improving our mindset is possible. Second, that we can modify the way we think to align with successful outcomes. The first step is to think about how you think (metacognition). Next, to understand that certain mental frameworks are much more conducive to successful outcomes than others. TTPs ought to be optimists. TTPs should also enjoy their role and not be afraid to make mistakes or to fail. The successful TTP believes in their technology and in themselves. They develop a vision for success for the technology and then creatively try and try again to realize that success. The TTP is ever curious, enjoys interacting with people, appreciates their responsibility to the invention, inventors, their institution and society. A TTP is honest and reliable.
More details on the TTP mindset are described here.