This anonymous interview is with a public librarian who has been a member of a hiring committee. This librarian works at a library with 10-50 staff members.
What are the top three things you look for in a candidate?
Enthusiasm, Intelligence, Desire
Do you have any instant dealbreakers, either in the application packet or the interview process?
No, except the obvious: appearance, lack of insight.
What are you tired of seeing on resumes/in cover letters?
why the job would be good for you.
Is there anything that people don’t put on their resumes that you wish they did?
I wish they all would understand that they need to submit a resume and cover letter, not just the application provided.
How many pages should a cover letter be?
√ Only one!
How many pages should a resume/CV be?
√ Two is ok, but no more
Do you have a preferred format for application documents?
Should a resume/CV have an Objective statement?
√ I don’t care
If applications are emailed, how should the cover letter be submitted?
√ As an attachment only
What’s the best way to win you over in an interview?
Humor, poise, professional.
What are some of the most common mistakes people make in an interview?
not understanding the position they are applying for. Underselling themselves.
How has hiring changed at your organization since you’ve been in on the process?
More organized and equal. Also put in a 1-5 scale for rating answers.
Anything else you’d like to let job-seekers know?
put in some effort!
