8 Tips for Landing your First Job in Higher Ed

If you’re looking to break into the higher education career field, we’ve got you covered. Michael Sampson, dean of education at St. John’s University in New York, recently held a webinar to highlight some of the basics around applying for a job. From preparing your resume and cover letter to ensuring you are applying for positions that you are qualified for, Sampson highlighted key points to help you easily apply for jobs in higher education.

Here is a list of the top eight things to think about, based on the webinar.

• Geographic considerations. Finding a job in higher education can mean moving across the country. If you’re tethered to a certain region because of circumstances, jobs are limited to universities in the surrounding area.
• Searching for jobs. Relying on search criteria or one website will not suffice. Universities often cross-post on multiple job sites and boards. HigherEdJobs is a great place to look, and so is researching on LinkedIn. Different higher ed associations and organizations also have job posting pages.
• Writing a cover letter. Sampson said the cover letter is often the most important part of a job application. Search committees read the cover letter and resume to assess if the basic qualifications for the role are met. It can take a day to write a successful cover letter. If you need inspiration, researching cover letters will provide valuable insight on meeting the university’s expectations. (See also this HigherEdJobs article on navigating Applicant Tracking Systems.)
• Getting a call. The top three candidates are typically called to visit the campus for an in-person interview. This interview process can last anywhere from a day to a day and a half. Make sure to research the university, the program, and the staff or faculty at the institution. Being prepared and being kind are two of the strongest ways to prepare for your interview. You may be required to answer many of the same questions throughout your visit, which can test your patience. However, staying positive during the interview is critical. Interviewing three or more candidates can mean lengthy deliberation periods between the search committee and other members on campus who will hire the applicant. Sampson said most universities will not immediately send you a rejection letter in case other applicants turn down the position.
• Answering and asking questions. A question that comes up often in interviews is “Why do you want work here?” Sampson advised avoiding cliche answers like “the weather” and to focus on the positives of the program. Discussing the mission of the university and your future colleagues is also a great way to answer the question. You should also be prepared with a list of your own questions.
• Preparing your presentation. Most universities will ask you to present an overview of your work or background and how you will contribute during your interview. Prior to the presentation, ask who the audience is and make sure to practice and adhere to the time limit. The search committee will be judging your presentation skills, and you want to be prepared.
• Have good references. Sampson discussed the importance of having references who are qualified to answer the questions. Have three references for the search committee who understand your job or have worked closely with you. Many reference letters are sent directly to the university, and you will not be able to read them unless the author sends it to you. In this case, it’s imperative to choose strong advocates/supporters to write your recommendation letters.
• Negotiating your salary. In higher education, the pay you are typically offered for the position is within the range they can offer. Sampson’s advice is if you can live with that pay, then take the position. Avoid excessive salary demands so you do not jeopardize the job offer. As you build a name for yourself, you will have more opportunities to advance.

Interviews can be tedious, nerve-wracking, and time-consuming. Getting a job in higher education can take time and patience, however understanding the process can create realistic expectations.