1. Academic Job Search Workshop Preparing Future Faculty Initiative

2. Identifying Positions that Fit Debra A. Major Professor of Psychology

3. What does “fit” mean? Match or compatibility in terms of: – Your credentials & the employer’s needs – Values – Goals – Expectations

4. Why is fit important? Career success – First position criticality Work satisfaction Life satisfaction

5. When do we assess fit? Fit is relevant and important throughout the search process – Deciding where to apply – During preliminary interviews – During the on-site interview – Deciding which position to accept

6. Processes in determining fit Self-assessment Finding open positions Department assessment Matching on your priorities

7. Self-assessment Strengths Weaknesses Values Goals Expectations

8. Self-assessment: Examples Strengths & Weaknesses – Teaching & mentoring – Research: Conceiving, conducting, analyzing – Writing – Collaborating – Funding potential

9. Self-assessment: Examples Values, Goals & Expectations – Work-life balance – Geographic location – Career aspirations (tenure, promotion) – Teaching: What, how much, who? – Departmental climate (collegial, collaborative) – Resources and support

10. Self-assessment Getting help with self-assessment – Faculty mentors – Peers – Friends and family Priorities – What am I looking for? – What’s most important to me?

11. What positions are available? Professional publications Listservs and websites Faculty mentors Professional networks Professional associations Conferences

12. Department assessment Needs Mission Political climate Strengths & weaknesses Values, goals, expectations

13. Department assessment Help with department assessment – Mentors – Peers – Professional contacts – Current faculty – Current and former students

14. Matching based on your priorities Deciding to accept an offer: – “Perfect” fit is difficult to find – Emphasize fit on your most important priorities – Make thoughtful decisions about what compromises you can make