Selecting the Search Committee

The first step in filling a vacant position is the selection of the search committee. The dean, department head, director, or other hiring official is responsible for selecting the committee members and designating the chairperson. This diversely composed team will eventually work with the new employee and should have a sense of what makes a good candidate.

The search committee should reflect the diversity of the department or unit as much as possible. Departments should include individuals who have broad perspectives and a commitment to diversity. An essential role of the search committee is to ensure that all applicants are considered equitably throughout the process. Confidentiality should be maintained, with all inquiries regarding the search referred to the chairperson.

The chairperson calls the committee members together, and they develop a recruitment plan. A key part of the recruitment plan is establishing a timeline for the overall search; from an advertising deadline date to the date of hire; also key is determining attendance requirements and other responsibilities for search committee members.

[continued on next page]