About now, #departmentchairs are soliciting #externalletters & candidates are finalizing their tenure cases.
I recall the stress & fear that went into those weeks, really that entire year, of waiting to learn about tenure.
I was lucky & received a favorable decision. I'm forever grateful to the people that helped me across the finish line.
About now, the first wave of people without luck will be receiving bad news. They will be told that they should look for work & the prospect of tenure is grim.
This wave will be followed by more throughout the academic year as #departments, #colleges, #universities, #provosts, & #presidents issue final, #negativetenure decisions.
The worst feeling in my professional life was watching someone walk away after learning they were denied #tenure.
I have very little to say that could console anyone. It sucks.
All that I can suggest is to think carefully about your next steps.
I have witnessed four responses to denial. Each of which shaped future success.
Response 1. Complain publicly.
This is a bad idea. No one wants to hire someone that complains. Of the three people that I've seen do this, one landed at a much lower-tier school, one took years to find work, & one is out of academe.
Response 2. Look for work & don't complain.
This is a good idea. Don't complain. Don't poor mouth your employer. Quietly look for a new position.
If you have a good #researchrecord, you can often land in an equivalent or near-equivalent school. People like to hire proven performers who show discretion.
If you do not have a good research record, all you have to sell is #teaching & personality. Show discretion & play up your strengths.
I've seen people land jobs making the same or better money in both cases.
Response 3. Appeal, don't complain, & look for work.
This is the best idea. This gives you options.
A small minority of #tenureappeals work. You might win.
Along the way, take time to understand why you were #deniedtenure. Use it to improve.
If you win & don't complain, you don't burn bridges, making staying easier.
If you win & stay, you will likely carry anger for a long time.
Eventually, you'll let go of the anger & the desire for paybacks.
Really though, carefully consider whether you want to stay. If you find a new job that will make you happy, chase that happiness.
Response 4. Return to #industry.
Opt-out.
There is no shame in leaving academe. Many of the smartest people that I know, chose that route. They all make good money & have more balanced lives. There are many paths to happiness!
Really, there is only one bad option, & it's Option 1. Going public & going #negative. This path will make difficult times to come much more challenging.
If you are denied tenure, my heart goes out to you. I know it is not easy.
Hang in there!
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