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[Shane]

Hi,

It is my first time looking for faculty positions in colleges and universities. I have two questions about the intial application process.

In the job description the institution asks for a "brief statment of creative and/or research goals." Is this in addition to a cover letter (where I would normally write about my goals)?

What is the normal protocol when listing your references? Name, title, and address only, or should I include contact information such as office phone number and e-mail?

Thanks.

Shane

[Anon]

The description is normally part of your letter. If you are in doubt due to ambiguous wording, e-mail or call the department secretary or administrator (anonymously if you wish) and ask (you can say something like, "Hi, I'm interested in applying for xyz, but I'm unsure about the wording of the ad... .") That way you are not bothering the committee chairperson. I've done this many times, such as when the committee asks for transcripts or publications up front (before the long list is made up). Often it is a mistake, but sometimes in isn't -- it may be due to a need for a quick search, etc. It's always better to ask.

Include e-mail addresses and phone numbers for all your referees.

[CT]

I agree with this reply 100 percent. Always include the telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of your references. Be sure that you include your e-mail address on your résumé.

I also include any statement or philosophy in my letter of application. I write a sentence saying that the job ad asked for my philosophy and here it is.

Application materials end up being so lengthy that if you can include something instead of using an additional piece of paper, do it. It will make the screening committee's job that much easier.