What is a Job Market Mentor?
A Job Market Mentor is a senior scholar with experience as both interviewer and interviewee who encourages you, answers your questions, calms your worries, and helps you make the best decisions for your future. I show you how to apply more strategically, create and stick to a schedule, build your professional network and public "brand," and balance job market time with writing, teaching, service, and the rest of life. I can help you get the best recommendations, polish your CV, give new life to job letters, and decipher cryptic job listings. I'm there for you whenever you need support through a process that is equal parts anxiety-producing and exciting.
How does it work?
With the Job Market Mentor package, we first talk together in summer by phone or Skype to begin the process early and make a plan before teaching begins. We meet twice a month in July, August, September, and October, with one concluding session in November. (This can also be shifted to August-December.) In between we stay in touch via Google Docs and email so that you can keep me posted on your progress and so that I can provide advice, support, and accountability. If you're already into the process of applying, you can schedule one-off appointments or jump into a pro-rated package. After Job Market Mentoring, you can add on an additional package to sharpen your interview and negotiation skills in January, February, and March.
Why do I need a Job Market Mentor?
Whether you’re applying for your first full-time position or changing jobs to be in a better location, a stronger department, or a more comfortable position as you go up for tenure, going on the job market is filled with exciting new possibilities. But the process can also feel stressful and confusing. It puts yet another pressure on your already overloaded schedule of research, teaching, and administration. Not to mention the conflicts with your personal life. It can make a significant difference to have someone help you manage it all. Colleagues, advisors, friends, and family are all invested in their own ways with your job search. I'm a neutral supporter who is there solely to guide, clarify, and encourage. If you're already a coaching client at Scholars & Writers, your focus is on finishing your book, submitting articles, and learning to enjoy being a scholarly writer. Adding in a Job Market Mentor means that you have a specialised support on the additional goal of getting the best job for yourself and can preserve your regular coaching sessions for making the most of your writing.
Why should I work with you?
Please note: This service is offered by an associate consultant, Daniel H. Foster.
I have been on both sides of the interviewing table, so I know what job committees are looking for and how to encourage you to find your best job market self. I can empathize with the highs and lows you’ll feel during the job market season and provide some calm support when you are waiting to hear back about your dream job. Although I welcome all kinds of clients, I especially enjoy working with scholars who are looking for interdisciplinary jobs or departments that have both practical and theoretical components.
How do I get started?
Fill out the form to set up a free consultation to talk further about how Writers and Scholars can help you.