Don't apply for jobs half-heartedly

 A small piece of advice to job seekers, particularly those targeting academic jobs: Do not apply half-heartedly. Why?

Institutes typically invite external subject experts for faculty hiring. There is a good chance you will meet the same expert again if you failed to secure the earlier job, and he or she will start the next interview with a negative impression. Even if the same expert does not interview you again, there is a good chance the outcome of your earlier job interview has reached the next institution. You will need to work extra hard against the negative perception.

Of course, this should not be considered a thumb rule, as people know candidates are rejected for many reasons, including their profile not matching the job requirements. Nevertheless, it is good to try to avoid creating any negative impression.

Do not apply for a job unless you are reasonably confident of your chances. How to know? Read the job advertisement carefully. Connect with people to gather more information. Attend conferences. If possible, visit the institution to give a seminar and talk to potential colleagues, which will also help them get to know you better. You should do this anyway, as joining an academic institution is potentially a lifetime decision.

When you decide to apply for a job, give it your best.