Strategies for Acquiring Online and Classroom-based Temporary Teaching Roles
Networking for Adjunct Teaching Positions: A Comprehensive Guide
In the ever-evolving world of academia, adjunct teaching offers a unique opportunity for individuals with diverse backgrounds to share their knowledge and expertise. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to effectively network for adjunct teaching positions by reaching out to department chairs and leveraging personal connections.
- Identify and Research Target Departments Start by gathering information about the academic departments where you want to teach. Understand their programs, faculty interests, and any recent news or changes. This will help tailor your approach and demonstrate your knowledge of their needs.
- Make Thoughtful, Personalized Contact with Department Chairs Reach out via email or phone with a concise introduction highlighting your relevant expertise and interest in adjunct roles. Reference how your background fits their needs and express enthusiasm for contributing to the department. Avoid generic mass emails.
- Leverage Personal Connections Strategically Tap into your existing professional and personal networks, such as former colleagues, mentors, or academic peers. Ask for introductions to department chairs or advice about local opportunities. Having a personal connection can help, but it's not necessary.
- Attend Academic Conferences and Local Professional Events Engage in face-to-face networking by attending conferences, workshops, or meetings relevant to your field. Meeting faculty informally can create meaningful relationships that pave the way for adjunct opportunities.
- Cultivate Genuine, Ongoing Relationships Networking is about building long-term connections, not just transactional exchanges. Offer value by sharing resources, mentoring others, or providing thoughtful follow-ups after meetings or emails.
- Develop a Diverse and Strategic Network Build multiple types of relationships: operational contacts who facilitate day-to-day work, personal relationships for informal support, and strategic connections with peers and leaders who provide insights and access to new roles.
- Follow Up Professionally and Persistently Stay in touch with contacts through periodic updates or check-ins. Express appreciation for their time and maintain visibility without being intrusive.
In addition, if you have online learning or teaching experience, such as taking an online course or teaching online during COVID, be sure to highlight this in your outreach. Also, reaching out to friends or people in the field who have worked at local universities to ask for a recommendation for a contact person who staffs classes in the subject you want to teach can be beneficial.
Adjunct pay can vary significantly but can seem downright lucrative for someone working in journalism. With the transient nature of adjunct teaching, there is a lot of turnover and opportunity for hiring, especially for reliable and dedicated instructors with the required degrees and expertise. So, don't be afraid to network and explore this rewarding way to earn a little extra cash while sharing your passion for teaching.
[1] [Source for networking tips] [2] [Source for networking best practices]
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