Participant-Driven: The Work of Continuing Work: Strategies for Success in Achieving Tenure, Moving up, and Finding Job Satisfaction
Finding a position in the field of archives and special collections can be difficult, and once found, the challenges do not always end. Whether it is a question of understanding diverse institutional employment structures, balancing work/life demands, or negotiating steps up the administrative ladder, the pressures do not end with simply finding a job.
Building on last year’s successful participatory session, “The Work of Finding Work”, this session continues those conversations, providing space for discussion around the specific challenges and pressures that many colleagues face. Aimed at both mid-career professionals as well as those beginning their careers and wondering what paths the future holds, the session will include brief remarks from a panel of speakers, acting as session leaders, who will start the conversation by providing insight into their own experiences. Following this introduction, participants will break out into smaller groups around specific areas of focus, allowing closer engagement and discussion with colleagues, followed by a wrap-up where final thoughts will be shared with all participants.
Conversations will focus on issues such as the pressures inherent in working towards tenure, permanent appointment or continuing contract positions, and the different means in which institutional employers do—or do not—provide support for those in such roles. Discussion leaders will also address the challenges and opportunities involved in moving into management and administrative roles, whether in a new or home institution. Discussion will also cover the question of transitioning from short-term contract or grant-funded roles to more permanent positions, and the advantages and disadvantages of both. There will also be opportunities to discuss general questions around seeking a good work/life balance, job security and satisfaction, and to talk about the challenges, concerns and decisions that may be faced for those of us engaged in the changing special collections field.