Where Can You Thrive? Questions to Ask Yourself on the Job Market

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To those on the academic job market: I see you. I remember the exhaustion, the spreadsheets, the endless tailoring of cover letters, the anxious waiting. It’s a whirlwind of hope, fear, and fatigue. And sometimes, in the middle of it all, it’s easy to slip into what I call “desperate mode”—that feeling of needing any job, somewhere, anywhere.

And I get it. Truly. The pressure is immense, and the job market is brutal. But I always remind my mentees: as much as possible, don’t forget you in the process. It’s not just about getting a job—it’s about finding a place where you can live, thrive, and be more than just your CV.

Before hitting “submit,” consider asking yourself:

• Could I see myself living here? Be honest. Would a small town make you feel isolated or bring you peace? I knew I didn’t want to be somewhere where I’d be the only person of color for miles. That mattered to me. Your reasons might be different—and that’s okay.

• What kind of institution excites you? Research-intensive? Teaching-focused? A place that values community engagement? There’s no right or wrong here, just alignment (or not) with what lights you up.

• Are rankings important to you? I personally couldn’t care less, but I know some people factor them in. What matters is why it matters to you.

• How far are you willing to move? Some folks draw a circle around a city, province, or country and say, “this is it.” Others cast a wide net. Some take a job planning to move later. All valid. It’s your life.

• What does support look like for you? Think beyond salaries and benefits. Ask: Is there a disability office that serves faculty? An LGBTQ+ faculty group? A strong union? Is the school known for community and mentorship, or will you be fighting to exist?

Remember: you are not just a researcher or a teacher—you’re a whole person. You deserve to be in a place where you can imagine building friendships, finding your people, walking through your neighborhood and exhaling.

So yes, apply widely if you want to. But also, give yourself permission to say no to things that just don’t feel right. That isn’t failure. That’s clarity.

The job is important, but so is your joy.