Getting Started
The academic job search can be overwhelming. You will more than likely cast a wide net by applying for multiple positions. Good information management is therefore imperative. Get off to a good start by creating an organized filing system. Maintain records of position announcements, jobs you apply for, materials submitted, and research on institutions. Keeping a master log of dates organized by position will serve you well in prioritizing applications, meeting deadlines, and reducing stress.
Information Management
Below is a list of information you may wish to record in a master log:
- Institution and contact information
- Specialization sought or preferred for the position
- Application submission deadline
- Date materials sent
- List of materials sent
- Date acknowledgement received
- Date additional materials requested
- List of additional materials and date sent
- Record of interviews (conference, phone, etc.)
- Names of interviewers/contacts
- Date thank-you note sent for each interview
- Record of travel arrangements and itinerary for campus interviews
- Record of reimbursement for expenses
- Date offer/rejection notification received
- Date your acceptance letter/letter of decline sent
Below is a list of materials you may wish to keep on file for each position:
- Position announcement
- Application materials submitted
- Acknowledgments received
- Notes from interviews and other relevant exchanges
- Information collected about the institution
- Receipts for expenses to be reimbursed
- Offer/rejection notifications
- Your acceptance letter/letter of decline