Relates some of the author's experiences in hiring new instructors as chair of the English department at Western Washington University. States that hiring is basically a year-round job. Discusses how position descriptions are written, thoughts on affirmative action, and the importance of organization and maintaining a timetable. Presents some…

Describes the characteristics that many "comprehensive" universities share, and some of the things that set them apart from one another. Cautions potential applicants that comprehensive institutions expect a balance of teaching and research different from that at graduate institutions. Advises that in interviewing, applicants should be…

Discusses several problems in the national hiring process, including candidates' (1) lack of preparation and/or interest in teaching, (2) lack of familiarity with interviewing institutions, and (3) unrealistic expectations and general ignorance of conditions in most of the country's English departments. (SR)

Describes the author's experiences during the 1970s while he was a graduate student; at that time, he knew almost nothing about community colleges. Presents a profile of the author's institution, Westchester Community College in New York, and the faculty search process that the college now uses. (PA)