How To Improve Search Committee Effectiveness: Reducing The Degree Of Subjectivity In Searching For And Selecting Educational Leaders

Purpose: The purpose in this study was to propose and illustrate methods for structuring Search Committee processes so that committee members have a shared understanding of the leadership attributes desired of candidates and of the important contextual factors to be considered in assessing the suitability of the various candidates for the position. Methodology: The study has substantial personal experiences with Search Committees and their decision processes; the article does not reflect an intent to do original research based on exploratory, experimental, or quasi-experimental research designs. No data collection is attempted; the reader will not find data driven analyses, or the results of hypotheses testing. Rather, the study intent was to provide readers with a logical set of ideas and tools that will aid them in conducting their leadership searches in a systematic rather than ad hoc manner. To identify and weight desired leadership attributes we have chosen to rely upon the writings of an illustrious group of individuals who have significant experience in leading public, private, and not for profit organizations, including higher education institutions. The study believes their books reflect "armchair empiricism" and provide distillations of their rich concrete leadership experiences. To identify and weight contextual factors to be taken into account in considering candidates for the specific organizational position to be filled, the study rely upon the seminal and classic empirical research study conducted by faculty of Harvard University. Findings: That study of the high turnover among School Superintendents in New England is a benchmark in the development of Role Theory. The language for Role Analysis produced by that study is drawn upon in the study to illustrate how the contextual expectations of the candidates for the leadership position in question can be thoughtfully addressed. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study has recommended the use of several theoretical/conceptual frameworks to structure Search Committee processes and improve their effectiveness in selecting the best qualified applicants for leadership roles. The study also describes a decision analysis method which, if employed, will lower the degree of subjectivity in Search Committee decision making processes.