JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES Whether you are in the second year of a master’s program or finishing up your dissertation, one thing is likely on your mind: what’s next? The window of starting your job search and signing the offer letter can be a long one (several months long, in fact!), and takes a hefty dose of diligence, patience, and strategy. But don’t fear; between the University Career Center and your professional support system, we are all here to take the mystery out of the process and boost your confidence as you embark on this exciting adventure: finding, securing, and starting your first job out of graduate school! The timelines and strategies for academia vs. industry tend to look quite different. Perhaps you are seeking an Assistant Professor position at a small college after completing your postdoc, or maybe you are looking to use your MBA to land a management role at a large company. Whatever path you would like to pursue, starting the process earlier rather than later and reflecting on your interests, values, goals, and strengths can bring clarity to this process. You are juggling many responsibilities as a graduate student, so be sure to devote some time each month for your job search, and to make self-care a priority as well. All of this may feel like a full-time job itself, but when you accept a job you are truly excited about, you will know it was all worth it! -Anna Claire Stinson, Career Counselor
ACADEMIA JOB SEARCH TIMELINE
For most positions at colleges and universities, the hiring cycle takes place between early fall to late spring. Depending on the completion date of your dissertation, your timeline might look a bit different. Work closely with your professors/advisor to determine a timeline that works for you.
SUMMER: Prepare and Strategize
• Determine your ideal location(s)/institutional type(s)/role • Discuss a job search strategy with a career counselor and your professors • Update your marketing materials (CV, cover letter, teaching philosophy, research statement, etc.) • Ask professors, advisors, supervisors, etc. for letters of recommendation • Update your social media profiles and continue networking
FALL: Apply and Network
• Create an organizational system for job applications • Start applying for positions
• Continue to build your network and attend conferences (you might have the opportunity to interview at some conferences) • Practice your interviewing skills and job talk by setting up mock interviews with faculty and career counselors Spring: Interview and Evaluate
• Interview for positions • Keep applying for positions that interest you • Update your professional support system on the status of your job search/interviews • Continue attending conferences in your discipline • Evaluate and negotiate offers
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