First and Lasting Impressions

1
First and Lasting Impressions

• Charlena Seymour
• University of Massachusetts Amherst

2
1. Before Interview

• Key to success in the academic ladder is
  understanding the academic trilogy research,
  teaching and service, and looking and speaking
  professionally about them.
• Know the institutional classifications to
  determine if there will be heavier emphasis on
  teaching or research.

3
Read the job description carefully.

• Talk to people who work at the institution, talk
  to people who know about the institution, talk to
  yourself about the institution.
• What is the diversity profile of the institution
  for students, faculty, and staff?
• What is the diversity plan/agenda?

4

• Review department and faculty websites for
  faculty development programs/support and
  mentoring.
• Understand the university lines of administration.

5

• Review agenda. What is your schedule of events?
  What will you DO?
• Prepare presentation for faculty and academic
  audiences. Always anticipate questions and be
  ready to speak.

6

• Plan what to wear. Check seasonal climate and
  weather of region.
• Dressy vs. casual understated vs. overstated,
  formal vs. informal
• Usually pack for two and one-half days
• Pack two days before departure.
• Pack two watches, presentation with back up, and
  clothes that do not wrinkle.

7
2. During interview

• First day Image is everything
• Be on time or early for all meetings.

8

• Relax -- speak slowly, clearly, and confidently.
• Do not hang on notes
• Demonstrate command of material

9

• Look intellectual/academic. Dont let clothes
  distract from your presentation.
• Men Suit or sports jacket and tie, loafers or
  oxfords
• Women Suit or dark colored dress, low heel or
  flat shoe, closed toe.
• Do not smoke or drink before/after/during the
  meal.

10

• Second Day Image is still everything
• Same type of professional attire

11

• Negotiating the contract
• What do you want and why?
• Know what you will settle for prioritize.
• What do you have to offer?

12

• Salary and Money Matters
• Do not begin sky high or lose credibility.
• Is it similar to other incoming faculty?
• Start-up packages and summer salary.

13

• Degree or ABD?
• Tenure and promotion
• Faculty union

14

• Teaching load
• Number of courses
• Content/type
• Office space and hours

15

• Human Resource Office
• Benefits
• Retirement
• Living Expenses
• Real Estate
• Summarize expectations with Chair

16
3. After Interview

• Send thank-you notes to Department Chair and
  helpful faculty
• Reflect Can I compete at this institution?
• Put clothes in cleaners for next new interview or
  second visit.