PREPARATION OF APPLICATIONS FOR ACADEMIC POSITIONS IN PSYCHOLOGY

This study reflects an analysis of recent academic job applications to assess where applicants make errors in preparing their applications for university positions. Results indicate a significant proportion of applications were incomplete, failed to address adequately the particulars of the job announcement, and were nonindividualized (''shotgun'') in approach. This information was used to develop a list of guidelines for job applicants and their mentors to produce successful academic job applications. Following these guidelines should result in better applications as well as in rime savings for application reviewers as shotgun applications are discouraged. Additional research is recommended about the application process, as little has been,written about the process.