Advice for Conference Squirrels

Most job candidates who are new to the academic market treat conferences like some sort of extended job interview. I once heard those folks called “conference squirrels” because their cheeks (briefcases) were stuffed with nuts (CV’s). When I became a department chairman, I always cringed when conference organizers put my title on my nametag because I knew I was going to be a magnet for the duration of the meeting.

That’s not to say I haven’t solicited my share of CV’s at academic meetings. They are prime ground for networking, but it’s a fine line to walk. Nothing sours search-committee members quite like an overeager job seeker who has buttonholed them in the doorway to a reception or a restroom.

What advice can you offer applicants who want to network at conferences?