Date
Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Session Type
Poster
Name
Improving the Academic Librarian Job Interview Process: A Guide for IDEA Principles and Practices
Description

Academic librarian job interviews are an important opportunity to attract and retain qualified and diverse candidates. However, the interview process can pose challenges and barriers for candidates and the hiring institutions, especially when principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA) are not addressed. After an internal review of our institutions’ hiring guidelines, we sought ways to incorporate IDEA in the hiring process. This poster presents a review of the existing evidence and best practices for conducting academic librarian job interviews that promote IDEA principles and practices. Topics covered include: 1) Optimal time to providing interview questions ahead of time to allow candidates to prepare adequately and reduce anxiety; 2) How to offer flexible scheduling options and remote participation to accommodate candidates’ personal and professional commitments; 3) Asking relevant questions that align with the job description and the institutional mission; 4) Avoiding questions that are illegal, discriminatory, or invasive of candidates’ privacy; 5) Providing proper accommodation for all candidates; 6) Soliciting feedback from candidates and evaluating the interview process to identify areas of improvement. By creating a positive and welcoming interview experience, academic libraries can attract and retain diverse and qualified candidates, enhance their organizational culture, and demonstrate their commitment to IDEA values.

Track
Poster