My previous post generated quite a lot of comments from you all. I think one of the uniting themes among the comments was a general "who the hell knows what those letter writers were thinking!!!"
ms. phd gave some great advice, namely that "It's really important to discuss with your recommenders that they avoid mentioning anything like this, even if you can't think of anything they might be tempted to mention."
I couldn't agree more! When I started getting my job application packet together, the first thing I did was make individual appointments with the faculty I had (already) asked to write letters on my behalf. During these appointments, I went over my CV with them briefly, discussed my career plans, summarized my teaching and research accomplishments (just in case they had forgotten how brilliant I am), and finally asked the magic question: "would you be able to write a favorable letter of recommendation for me?"
Don't underestimate the importance of asking! No one wants to get blind-sided by a crappy letter. Real life example: "While Postdoc has exceptional potential as a scientist, I feel that Postdoc requires more experience before assuming a faculty position. I believe Postdoc requires one or two more years of research experience before I could recommend Postdoc for a faculty position."
Ouch.
In addition to avoiding such academic prof-blocks, spending 20 or so minutes with your recommenders can help ensure that important aspects of your career as a postdoc/grad student get highlighted. For example, since I was applying for faculty positions at primarily teaching colleges, it was very important to me that my (R1 faculty) letter writers made mention of the numerous lectures I gave for an upper level class.
Anyone else have letter-related suggestions to enlighten the masses?
