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[after the campus interview]

I just completed an on-campus interview at an R1 institution (I was the first of 3 candidates.)  During the process I realized the chair knew--and respected--my dissertation advisor.  He recently gave me glowing feedback on my dissertation.  My question:  Would it be appropriate to have him call the chair of this institution to put in a good word, and perhaps mention my research potential?  I don't want to overstep bounds, but sometimes a little promotion is well placed...

[NeuroticDoc]

I think it would be fine.  I had a prof who made a similar call for me years ago and it made all the difference (unfortunately since the job turned out to be a nightmare).  Now that I am a Chair I would be impressed by such a call (but maybe I am different).

[Ms. Q]

Assuming that your dissertation advisor is one of your references and that you are keeping your references apprised of your search progress, it would seem unnecessary to ask.

You might just mention the conversation to your advisor, and let her/him take it from there.

[just the facts]

absolutely yes. it is done all the time.