The job market for scientists offers a permanent employment perspective only for a small portion of highly qualified early-career researchers. After obtaining their doctorate or later in their academic careers, the question of alternatives arises: In which fields are PhD holders needed? What qualifications, skills, and interests lead to career goals beyond a professorship? What does a successful application strategy look like? Mirjam Müller provides a practical guide for planning alternative career paths. Thirteen portraits of PhD graduates in the humanities and social sciences describe how to successfully transition out of academia, what the new workday looks like in various industries, and what qualifications are expected. The guide offers self-coaching exercises as well as strategies for successfully entering a new profession.