Some PhD students are wondering whether to go on the #EconJobMarket. If you're entering 4th year, sit it out and get more work done on your papers. If you're entering 5th year, consider doing same. However, if you're entering 6+ year, here's why you *should* go on the mkt: 1/6

1) There were ~4k new jobs on JOE last year. Even if the demand is cut in half, that's still ~2k new jobs. Lots of people are going to find great job matches this year. 2/6

2) Even tho the job mkt is time-consuming, it will make your work a lot better - it'll be scrutinized by your advisors and placement cttee. You'll get useful feedback in mock interviews and practice job talks (as well as the real ones). 3/6

3) If you stay an extra, unneeded year, you may take your foot off the gas, and make less career progress.
4) There's no guarantee the mkt will fully rebound the following year. 4/6

5) Your 1st job doesn't have to be for life. Take a postdoc. Start your career somewhere and make a move in a few yrs if necc. There's an active mkt for advanced asst profs.
5/6

6) Worst case, if it doesn't work out, no one will judge you. Everyone knows it's a bad year; there's no info in someone not finding a good match. 7) Good luck! This is a tough time but your advisors and the profession are rooting for you. 6/6 END