How to Talk Yourself Into a Job: Nailing the "Job Talk" Experience

The "Job Talk" is an opportunity for you to demonstrate how well you fit in with a given academic culture. This performance is perhaps the single most important thing you'll do during an academic interview. On the basis of your presentation, you will be evaluated as a scholar, teacher and potential colleague. A dynamic talk is likely to result in a job offer, while a poorly organized, flat or uninspired presentation will almost certainly eliminate you from consideration. This "professional audition" represents a critical opportunity for you to impress the faculty and students at the institution, and should focus on showcasing your teaching style, research abilities, and personality traits in an active learning environment. This workshop will provide you with advice and tips on how to enhance your job talk effectiveness and leave a positive lasting impression on your audience.
Peter Jorgensen, Western Illinois University