A6. This can be challenging. We can be so close to our work and forget that others might not be as interested. We have to take a step back and tell the story of who we are, how we came to our work, and why the topic we’re sharing matters (or should matter to others not in our field). #literacies

A5. Being on the market was so emotionally taxing. It made me question myself, test my patience, and exist in long-term uncertainty. What kept me going was a group chat with others on the market where we could vent. Also a nice early 2000’s emo playlist #literacies

A4. It’s a marathon and every minute of it is part of the interview. Pace yourself and ask for a break if needed. Also, practice the job talk beforehand and get lots of feedback! The job talk is its own genre; there are lots of ways to do it but also people expect certain components. #literacies

A3. Most importantly, I’ve learned that the committee wants you to do well. If they’re taking the time to interview you, they are interested. The interviews can be daunting bc they are quick and hard to read energy. But be confident and let yourself shine—they want you to do well. #literacies

A2. I began preparing applications the summer before my last year in the program. Most job ads didn’t appear until late August/September. Most applications were due by Nov, though there seemed to be a second wave of postings in Dec/Jan. #literacies

A1. For me, family was an important factor. My husband and I talked about each opportunity before I submitted an application. We prioritized opportunities within a day’s driving distance to family. At the same time, I knew I would have to apply nationally given limited opportunities. #literacies

@writinglit.bsky.social Thanks for inviting me to the chat this evening! I'm excited to engage with the community around the academic job search process. #literacies

Ready for our next #literacies chat? Please join us in one week for our chat where we consider “Navigating the #literacies Job Market: Sustaining Practices for Academics” hosted by Dr. Hedrick-Shaw (Devon Hedrick-Shaw#literacies#literacies