After the Decision: Outcomes, Reflection, and Next Steps

Successful promotion is institutional validation of achievements. Promotion may bring rewards and/or increased responsibilities. Successful applicants should use their experience to provide feedback on the process and to mentor other faculty members in future cycles. Failure to obtain a requested promotion should prompt efforts to obtain feedback and analyze the application to identify problems in presentation and/or content and determine an appropriate course of action. The options open to unsuccessful applicants are determined by institutional policies but commonly include appeal, resubmission in a subsequent cycle, and change of track. The timeframe to appeal a decision may be limited and the grounds restricted to demonstrating failure of process. Denial of tenure is a serious situation that may trigger non-reappointment. Courtesy, civility, and professionalism are essential in managing both denial and award of academic promotion.