This checklist, which is arranged in roughly chronological order, covers the basics of the academic job market from deciding whether to enter it to accepting interview offers and preparing for interviews. Interviewing will be covered in workshops held in Fall Quarter, including the History Placement Committee's Mock Interviews. The material in this checklist is based on my own experience in the job market last year, both what I did and what I wish, in retrospect, I had done, as well as conversations with friends and colleagues. Preparation for the market Prepare polished writing sample.
Open credentials file.
Get letters of recommendation. Discuss with advisors whether they are willing to write tailored letters for some positions. Think about job talk. Assemble teaching portfolio. Join professional organizations.