On selecting a good advisor (or things to consider when picking your boss).
Recently, I made a grumpy post about whom to avoid as an advisor.
The next day, a colleague reached out & commented that: "it might be helpful if share what to look for as well as what to avoid in an advisor."
They reasoned that sometimes #phdstudents lack choices among advisors - so all things being equal - what should a student look for? When deciding whom to ask to advise their dissertation?
Truthfully, it is a lot easier to identify a #badadvisor than to identify a #goodadvisor.
Why?
Because a good advisor for you may not be a good advisor for the next person.
So what I offer are a few heuristics for students to think about & encourage them to rely on their intuition about a person when selecting an advisor.
So what are the attributes of a good advisor?
First, time.
A good advisor is available. Not every day. But certainly every week or two.
If someone makes time for you, it's likely they will effectively advise your dissertation.
Second, email.
A good advisor answers emails. Not every hour. But certainly within a day or two.
If someone replies to your email, it's likely they will keep up with your progress on your dissertation.
Third, structure.
A good advisor lays out a structure for your work. They will give you a timeline, targets, & more for completing work.
They will teach you the habits necessary to become an independent scholar.
If someone provides structure, they will teach you the skills to finish on time & to succeed in the future.
Fourth, collegiality.
A good advisor is a good colleague.
While they may sometimes use sharp words, however, on a day-to-day basis they will be polite, accessible, and welcome conversations.
They will demonstrate concern about your progress, your well-being, and the well-being of your family (including the dog).
If someone is collegial, it is a lot easier to take tough feedback from them in the years to come.
Fifth, completion.
A good advisor has a track record of students graduating and placing in jobs.
Mind you, you can't predict this with young advisors. So here, look at whether the young advisor has a history of completing papers with students.
If someone gets projects done, it is a lot easier to trust their advice as your dissertation unfolds.
Sixth, relationships.
A good advisor sticks with their students post-graduation. They offer support for their work, advice when needed, and maintain ties with their "academic children."
Ask around and see how students view their advisor, post-graduation.
If someone has good relationships with their students, they just might be a good advisor.
Seventh, reputation.
You want an advisor with a good reputation in your field & at your school.
If someone has a good reputation, they will be a lot more effective at placing you in a good job.
Most of all, you need an advisor you respect.
You must be willing to listen to their advice.
Best of luck!
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