Navigating the Myth of Unnecessary Rules in Academic and Job Search Environments

Introduction

Whether you're a student or a job seeker, navigating through a myriad of expectations and rules can feel daunting. In academia and the job market, certain practices and procedures might appear as though they are integral to success. However, some of these rules are not as necessary as they seem. This article delves into these often misunderstand practices, offering a critical analysis of their necessity and the potential consequences of following them.

Unnecessary Rules in the Academic Environment: 75 Attendance

One common requirement in academic settings is the mandate for students to attend a certain number of lectures or classes, often referred to as 'attendance'. The rule in question here is the 75% attendance requirement.

The crux of the matter lies in the definition of necessity. According to this principle, when a rule is imposed as a requirement, it is generally seen as necessary. However, if there is an alternative way to achieve the same outcome, the original rule can be deemed unnecessary. Logically, if one might get away with not following a rule (such as traffic signals when alone) then it is not truly necessary. Therefore, the 75% attendance rule can be scrutinized for its necessity.

There are several aspects to consider. Firstly, in academic settings, attendance can be a proxy for engagement and participation. It ensures that students are present to absorb information and participate in discussions. However, this does not mean that alternative forms of assessment or engagement are not equally valid. For instance, in online learning environments, regular participation in online discussions or consistent submission of assignments can closely replicate the benefits of traditional classroom attendance.

Natural Unnecessary Rules: Neuropsychological Influences

Some rules are based on neuropsychological phenomena, rather than strict necessity. These rules, often subconscious, can significantly impact how others perceive you, such as the way a resume can be impacted by presentation or the perception of friendliness when holding a warm drink. These are what I refer to as 'neural short circuits'—rules that are neither necessary nor beneficial.

For example, a study in neuropsychology shows that one's resume can be perceived as more 'gravitas-filled' if it is clipped to a clipboard. Similarly, holding a warm drink can make a person appear and feel warmer to others. These are interesting phenomena, but they do not change the fact that such rules are often unnecessary and artificial. They are more about shaping the perception of others rather than enhancing one's intrinsic abilities or qualifications.

Job Search Strategies and Unnecessary Rules

The job search process is rife with what can be argued as unnecessary rules. A Chronicle of Higher Education article discussing the dos and don'ts of the job search sheds light on several practices that may not be as essential as they seem. The inclusion of a standard cover letter and the availability of references can fall under this category.

The cover letter, often used to recite a purpose, can sometimes be seen as redundant when a well-structured resume outlines qualifications and achievements. Additionally, stating that references are available on request appears to be a formality that adds no actual value to the process. In the digital age, references can often be requested through professional networks and platforms, making such statements a somewhat antiquated practice.

The key here is to focus on what truly matters: presenting a clear, concise, and relevant resume and demonstrating success through past experiences and achievements. Tailoring your approach to suit the specific requirements and culture of the job you are applying for can also significantly impact your success rate.

Conclusion

The world of academia and job searching is filled with seemingly necessary rules that can often be questioned. The 75% attendance requirement, neuropsychological phenomena, and certain aspects of job search practices may all be rooted in convenience, perception, or historical precedent. It's important to critically assess the necessity of these rules and question whether they truly contribute to your success or are simply artificial constructs. By doing so, you can focus on more meaningful contributions to your academic or professional life, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and authentic journey.