Search Committee Update
As the search committee for the new Dean of our cathedral, we are taking a thoughtful and thorough approach to evaluating prospects for this important role. One of the tools we are using in this process is the STAR method of behavioral interviewing. STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, and it is a technique used to assess a candidate’s past experiences and how they handled specific challenges in their work. Here’s what each part of the STAR format represents:
Situation: The interviewer asks the candidate to describe a specific situation they faced in their previous job or project.
Task: The candidate is asked to describe the task they were trying to achieve in the situation.
Action: The candidate describes the actions they took to complete the task or handle the situation.
Result: The candidate explains the outcome of their actions and what they achieved as a result.
This interview technique has been recommended to us in our Diocesan training and is now standard practice for clergy searches across the Diocese of Texas. In the context of our search for the new Dean, we are using STAR questions to better understand how each candidate has approached challenges in their ministry and how they have led their congregations in times of change or difficulty. This information is critical in helping us assess the candidate’s ability to serve as the Dean of our cathedral, where they will be expected to lead and support the community through a wide range of experiences and challenges.
During our interviews, we will be asking each candidate to describe specific situations they have faced in their ministry and how they approached and resolved those challenges and opportunities. The questions cover a broad range of categories from their preaching and theological approach to pastoral care, finance, and administration. Using a well-structured set of questions for all prospects also ensures that we have an objective, consistent, and balanced approach to evaluation.
As the search process continues, we ask for your continued prayers and support. We are confident that with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we will be able to find the right person to serve as the next Dean of our cathedral.
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