Faculty positions: Which jobs to apply for? Don't wait for the perfect fit #assistantprofessor

TL;DR

When deciding on job applications, don't be overly critical or apply to everything, but instead focus on positions where you convincingly meet most of the requirements.

Transcript

I think a very common situation is you see a job ad and you ask yourself do I fit this position am I close enough to the description in the position and this is what I want to talk about in this video how do you decide that and do you understand why certain position descriptions are the way they are applying for faculty jobs or similar positions is... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧘 Applying for positions requires effort and preparation, including tailoring application materials.
• 🏬 Job descriptions are the result of compromises within the hiring department, so not every requirement needs to be met.
• 💪 Meeting most, but not all, requirements is sufficient to be a strong candidate.
• ⛔ Applying to every job can be perceived as less serious and limit the ability to customize applications.
• 💪 Highlighting your strong record and explaining how you fulfill many requirements can convince search committee members.
• 👨‍🔬 Customizing application materials is crucial to capturing the attention of the search committee.
• 💦 Being polyvalent, working at intersections of topics, can increase your chances of finding suitable positions.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why should I apply for a position that I don't meet all the requirements for?

Job descriptions are often a compromise and include keywords favored by different camps within the department. Meeting most, but not all, requirements is sufficient to be a strong candidate.

Q: Won't applying to every job increase my chances?

Applying to every job can make your application appear less serious and prevent you from dedicating enough time to tailor your materials. It's important to focus on positions where you can make a convincing case for your fit.

Q: How can I stand out in my application if I don't meet all the requirements?

Highlight your strong record and emphasize how you fulfill many of the points in the job description. Additionally, some search committee members may root for you if you align with their interests.

Q: Should I customize my application materials for each position?

Yes, it is essential to tailor your cover letter, research statement, and teaching statement to catch the attention of the search committee. Generic, boilerplate applications are unlikely to be successful.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Applying for faculty jobs or similar positions requires effort and preparation, including tailoring application documents.

• It is important to understand that job descriptions are the result of a compromise within the hiring department, and not every requirement needs to be met.

• Applying to every job or being overly critical about fitting all requirements are both mistakes to avoid.