This anonymous interview is with someone who hires for a:
√ Public Library
Titles hired: Regional manager, Librarian, public service assistant
Who makes hiring decisions at your organization:
√ The position’s supervisor
Which of the following does your organization regularly require of candidates?
√ Resume
√ References
√ Oral Exam/Structured interview
Does your organization use automated application screening?
√ Yes
Briefly describe the hiring process at your organization and your role in it:
Pre screen panel of 3 interviewers, 3 questions, 10 minutes to answer. If selected to move on, 1 hour interview with 5 member panel
Think about the last candidate who really wowed you, on paper, in an interview, or otherwise. Why were they so impressive?
Consistent use of STAR technique, involvement in professional associations, and ability to articulate concepts from self guided professional development
Do you have any instant dealbreakers?
No
How many pages should each of these documents be?
Cover Letter: √ Two is ok, but no more
Resume: √ Two is ok, but no more
What is the most common mistake that people make in an interview?
Not providing specific examples to support answers
Do you conduct virtual interviews? What do job hunters need to know about shining in this setting?
Yes.
How can candidates looking to transition from paraprofessional work, from non-library work, or between library types convince you that their experience is relevant? Or do you have other advice for folks in this kind of situation?
Hype up customer service skills
When does your organization *first* mention salary information?
√ It’s part of the job ad
What does your organization do to reduce bias in hiring? What are the contexts in which discrimination still exists in this process?
Pre and post bias discussion. Diverse hiring panel
What questions should candidates ask you? What is important for them to know about your organization and the position you are hiring for?
I’d like them to ask more about our strategic mission and the culture between admin and branch level. What is the role of Librarian in the organization. How do you see it changing in the next 5 years.
Additional Demographics
What part of the world are you in?
√ Western US
What’s your region like?
√ Urban
√ Suburban
Is your workplace remote/virtual?
√ Other: Occasional WFH opportunities. Generally discouraged for non management
How many staff members are at your organization?
√ 201+
Hiring Librarians 