Applying for an Academic Position? What you Should Know Beforehand


Dear Real Academics,

If you are seeking an academic position in a university NOW is the time to apply (Fall). 

Unlike other jobs, academic positions, especially tenure-track and/or full-time positions, are year-long processes. 

Let me break down the typical timeline for you:

(1) Applications are due in the Fall.
(2) If chosen, universities contact you in Fall or Spring for the first round of interviews (usually phone or virtual).
(3) If you pass the first round, universities contact you for an on-campus visit (usually 2-3 candidates get invited at this phase) - likely in Spring.
(4) If you are picked, then you get an offer and negotiate your contract for a Fall start date.

Within the steps outlined above, there are other steps and tips and strategies to help with the competitive process ahead.

In this post, I'll provide some general tips, but for detailed information and awesome resources, templates, and tips that have helped others through this process, contact us at www.therealacademics.com and we can set up a time to meet, provide resources and tips, and coach you through whatever step you are on.

Tips for Step #1 - START WRITING EARLY AND STRATEGICALLY (we have lots of tips on how to do this successfully) and GET FEEDBACK on your writing for the application (we can do this, too). 

Academic positions require A LOT of writing such as cover letters, CVs, teaching statements, research statements, diversity statements, and outside letters of references. Each piece is different and each is important. I just finished reviewing 48 applications as part of a search committee, and I could have cried at the poor quality of, unfortunately, a lot of the written materials. If you want to stand out, take the time to get PROFESSIONAL TIPS AND FEEDBACK on your writing (There's always the option to contact us if you don't have someone on hand).

Tips for Step #2 - Do your research on the university, college, department and committee members before this important first step. 

Most university, college, and department vision and mission statements and statistics can be found on their websites. If you don't know who the search committee members are, then email or call and ask (the chair). Here, so much is about what you bring to the table within the specific place you have applied. Again, we can provide tips on how to prepare for this phase if you are one of the lucky few to make it to this level.

Tips for Step #3 - The on-campus visit is the coveted white whale moment come to reality. If you make it this far, you should be super proud of yourself. Very few do! 

However, know you are interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you. Craft rock-solid research and/or teaching presentations and practice them and get feedback before the interview. I would also recommend practicing with someone who provides some mock-interview questions. Last, you'll want to have some solid questions prepared to ask everyone you meet on campus. Another thing to keep in mind at this phase is that you will be talking with A LOT of different people, not just the search committee. So, be ready for this and be kind to everyone while also observing how everyone treats each other (and knowing they'll likely be putting up their best front as well!).

Again, if you reach this phase, contact us to talk through some critical tips on making your on-campus visit as successful and useful for you as possible. I personally have  insights for women and/or minority applicants.

Tips for Step #4 - If offered the position, then you've done it! Congrats! 

Before you sign ANYTHING there are a lot of things to consider to ensure you are getting a good deal. I know this may sound strange given how hard and long it takes to get to this phase, but don't sell yourself short. The last thing you want -- especially if you have other offers pending or coming in -- is to sign a contract that will hurt you down the road. They'll pressure you to sign quickly, but you should ask for 48 hours to even a week to think it over and discuss with your family.

If this is your first academic position offer then it's very likely that "you don't know what you don't know" so, again, it is wise to seek counsel from trusted colleagues, professors, and friends who have gone before you, and we're here for you, too.

Closing

I hope this is helpful, Real Academics. We are here to help you with any of the above phases and to cheer you on to a successful academic career. Don't be shy to reach out.

Until next time,
Maggie






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