A Strategy to Consider: Scenario Interviews Can Surface Competencies

One tool for creating a more balanced look at a candidate's competencies is to use a tactic that has been well-documented in other professions, the scenario interview, sometimes called a situational interview. These are interview questions that deal with hypothetical situations in the future and ask the candidate "what would you do in this situation?" Alternatively, you could set up a situation specifically for the interview. For example, you could ask a candidate to give a current teacher feedback on a proposed assignment for a course they'll share. When you use situational interview questions, you offer candidates with a competency the opportunity to demonstrate their skills. 
 
If situational interviews are new to you, or if you have skeptical colleagues, here is a research study that found that situational interviews can predict performance. 
 
The scenario interview does NOT ask a candidate to "describe a time in which you..." That type of question has a couple of flaws. It privileges fast processors and those who have the exact experience addressed in the question.

Association for Academic Leaders members, there’s a conversation about hiring taking place in the portal started by member Lauren Putnam, Middle School Dean of Instruction, Charlotte Latin School. Check out what your peers are saying and sharing!

Interested in learning more about hiring practices? Association for Academic Leaders members get access to our entire Winter/Spring 2023 professional learning calendar, out in January.