This anonymous interview is with a public librarian who has been a hiring manager at a library with more than 200 staff members.
What are the top three things you look for in a candidate?
adaptability;
initiative;
customer service skills
Do you have any instant dealbreakers, either in the application packet or the interview process?
failure to submit a resume;
If I have several qualified candidates that have applied, I will eliminate those that did not submit a cover letter.
What are you tired of seeing on resumes/in cover letters?
OBJECTIVE STATEMENTS!;
list of responsibilities (give me specific objectives and how they were met)
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?
√ No preference, as long as I can open it
Should a resume/CV have an Objective statement?
√ No
If applications are emailed, how should the cover letter be submitted?
√ I don’t care
What’s the best way to win you over in an interview?
Convey enthusiasm about the position. Demonstrate you have the ability to perform the duties of the position by synthesizing what you did in your previous job with how you would approach tasks in the new position.
What are some of the most common mistakes people make in an interview?
They don’t elaborate on questions.
Hiring Librarians 