Abstract
This study reports findings from a national survey examining faculty hiring practices in communication departments across the United States. Questionnaires were distributed at the 1985 Speech Communication Association Convention Placement Center to three respondent groups: department chairs, search committee members, and job applicants. Results from 99 returned surveys provide quantitative data on departmental structures, search procedures, evaluative criteria, and interview formats. Most departments reported frequent searches and high proportions of tenure-track openings, indicating an active job market. Analyses of hiring roles showed that department chairs are centrally involved throughout the process, from forming committees to final salary negotiation. Across institutions, the on-campus interview emerged as the most influential factor in selection decisions. Evaluation emphasized candidate articulateness, demonstrated teaching ability, compatibility with departmental goals, and evidence of scholarly activity. The study concludes that communication skills, professional demeanor, and alignment with program priorities weigh more heavily than credentials alone, underscoring the interpersonal dimension of academic hiring.
Recommended Citation
Ross, Robert F. and Emmert, Philip
(1987)
"A Survey of Hiring Practices in the Communication Arts and Sciences,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 59, Article 21.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol59/iss1/21
