You’re ready to transfer your experience in your field to teaching, but navigating the world of adjunct professor positions can feel overwhelming. Dorothy Miraglia, PhD., Vice President of Academics and Professor Services, is here to be your guide. She shares her wisdom and experiences on landing your dream job.
Ditch the Job Board Frenzy
“Everybody goes to these big job boards,” says Dr. Miraglia. But picture yourself amidst a sea of thousands. HR reps are swamped, and robo-screening might miss your CV. Instead, go directly to the source!
Here are tips:
- Explore the job boards of specific colleges and universities.
- Try smaller institutions.
- Look at local schools.
- Apply year-round, as hiring cycles vary.
Craft the Ultimate CV, Not Just a Resume
“The very first thing I say is you need an optimized CV,” Dr. Miraglia emphasizes. Resumes are great for general job hunting, but for academia, a Curriculum Vitae (CV) is the required tool.
Here are tips:
- Have a higher ed professional review your CV to ensure it’s a CV, not a resume.
- Be sure your CV contains all of the recommended sections. (LINK TO OTHER BLOG)
- Consider investing in a professional CV writer. Their expertise can be the difference between rejection and getting hired.
Shine Online
“Online teaching is extremely competitive,” Dr. Miraglia reminds us. So, ensure your online presence reflects your professionalism and expertise.
Here’s how:
- Maintain an up-to-date LinkedIn profile.
- Highlight your teaching experience, publications, and relevant skills.
- Keep ALL of your social media profiles professional and aligned with your academic persona.
- Do not complain about work on any social media. Recruiters can see your posts.
Remember, online impressions matter!
Research the school
Demonstrate you have done your homework on the school. Research the institution and then tailor your application materials to each position.
Here’s how:
- Show genuine interest in the specific institution and program.
- Mention relevant skills and experiences that align with their needs.
- Demonstrate that you understand their mission, values, and goals.
By taking these steps, you’ll stand out from the crowd and land that coveted adjunct professor position.
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Angela