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SHOULD I USE VISUAL AIDS?
Many people feel visual aids (PowerPoint, handouts, transparencies) help them keep on track.
Using various types of media during your job talk implies you can use media in the classroom.
If you use equipment, consider the following suggestions.
o Be sure to reserve any necessary equipment.
o Use slides sparingly and do not have too many words on each slide.
o Make sure the slides and handouts look professional & consistent.
o Consider having a few extra slides on hand to show during the discussion section when
asked relevant questions.
o Talk to the audience, not the equipment.
o Consider turning off projectors when not in use.
o Finally, if you plan to use computer equipment, take a back-up mode of presentation,
such as overheads, in case there is a technical problem.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?
Contact the department that invited you:
o If you are not clear about what you are expected to present, ask.
o Anticipated audience (faculty, undergrads, graduate students).
o Audience familiarity with your topic.
o Audience size.
o Room arrangement (lecture style, conference room, lounge, etc).
o Time of day.
o Expected length of presentation and Q&A session.
o Availability of technological equipment.
o Request a 15-30 minute break before your job talk so you can prepare.
Contact your home department:
o What are the norms for job talks in your field?
o What should you take with you?
o How should you dress?
o What information is known about the host department that might help you prepare
your job talk?
o What types of questions will likely be asked after the job talk?
Practice!
o Because the job talk is so crucial, you should start thinking about your job talk as soon as
you mail your applications.
o Practice multiple times (with different audiences) before the real thing.
o After each practice talk, have audience members ask difficult questions and give you
feedback about the content and style of your presentation.
Try to attend the job talks of candidates interviewing in various departments at the UW so you
have an idea what to expect.