Job Search Questions and Advice

As a fairly new Academic librarian once again involved in the job search, I have a couple of questions for the more experienced librarians out there, and some advice for those looking for their first or second professional jobs.

My questions are:
1. If you are not offered the job you interviewed for, is it appropriate to ask who accepted the position? I don't know that I want to know, especially immediately after hearing that it wasn't me, but I wonder about it anyway.
2. Does an internal or incumbent candidate usually spell disaster for the outside candidate? I realize that anything can happen in an interview and with the search committee, but I suspect that often the institution is just going through the proper motions and one's chance of actually getting the job is pretty slim.

My advice is:
1. Never, ever take a job without first visiting the workplace. Typically that visit will happen as a result of the interview, but some institutions may conduct the entire interview remotely or by telephone. Accepting a position without going to the workplace means you have no idea of what the library looks and feels like, or what the staff and your potential coworkers are like. Granted, within the confines of an interview you never really get to see what people are like (this works both ways -interviewers and interviewee), but it is important to see whether you fit the institution.
2. Try not to fall into the mindset of "I must get a job - any job". I know this is hard, but taking the wrong job or a job for the wrong reasons can seriously affect your perspective on the profession, never mind your health and mental wellbeing. Try to identify your likes, preferences, and dislikes - and then look at a job posting realistically to see whether it fits what you're looking for. A paycheque is important but job satisfaction should be important too.

That's it for now. I look forward to your responses and comments.
Leeanne

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