Look for a college teaching position that advertises a tenure-track career option. Note that not every college teaching position offers this, as each college has a limit on the number of tenured professors it is willing to accommodate. During your interview, make it clear that you intend to work towards your goal of gaining tenure.
Review the specific requirements for your new tenure track job and develop a schedule for your research and publications, such as conference papers and academic journal articles. Plan a specific schedule, making sure to finish your research and academic writing at least one year prior to the date when your tenure application will be reviewed. Divide your research into specific goals, with clear completion dates for each project.
Start your research immediately upon accepting a tenure track position. Organize your research projects around your academic specialization, as you can use some of your research as references for multiple projects.
Research new teaching methods and develop your own personal teaching style, as tenured professors are expected to provide skillful classroom leadership. Read up-to-date academic articles on your specialization and new teaching techniques related to your specialization. Work to incorporate this new information into your lessons and personal teaching style.
Provide helpful assistance to students and develop a professional working relationship with your classes, as a positive relationship with your students helps foster your reputation as a successful teacher. Provide constructive criticism regarding student work, building your student’s understanding of your subject and a deeper respect for you as an authority on the subject.
Form professional relationships with other professors in your department, especially the senior staff who will make the final decision regarding your tenure status. Offer your time to help other professors with research in fields similar to your specialization and take part in social events, such as department gatherings. Support your fellow professors in their on-campus projects, attending and helping organize these events.