Q: What is the purpose of the QAI examination?
A:
The interview panel will measure your experience, education, and abilities against the job requirements. Nearly all classified job classifications have a qualifying appraisal interview examination. Since this is an examination you will not be allowed to ask questions of the panelists.
Who will conduct the QAI?
In most cases the panel will consist of three Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), at or above the level of the job classification.
What if I know one or more of the Subject Matter Experts through work, personal or a financial relationship?
Before the interview the SMEs and the candidates will have an opportunity to ask to be excused for the reasons stated above.
Q: How can I prepare for the QAI?
A:
- Being well prepared can help boost your confidence and lower anxiety.
- Review the EXAMINATION section of the job announcement to see minimum knowledge required. Print a copy of the complete job classification at the LBCC website: http://www.lbcc.edu/PersonnelCommission/classspecs.cfm. Become familiar with the department/management. The LBCC organization chart link is: http://www.lbcc.edu/HumanResources/documents/LBCC_2009-10_OrgChart_All.pdf
- Think of potential questions you may be asked and practice your answers. If speaking in front of others makes you nervous, practice. Have friends and family quiz you.
- Arrive on time, anticipate traffic and parking issues. Plan to arrive 10 minutes before your interview time. Get plenty of sleep the night before and eat a good breakfast/lunch.
Q: Should I submit my resume, letters of recommendation/references at the QAI?
A:
This is an examination, resumes, and/or letters of recommendation/references should not be submitted as they will not be used in this phase of the examination.
Q: What should I wear to the QAI?
A:
Dress appropriately for the position you are interviewing for. Business attire is always appropriate. No gum chewing please.
Q: What do I do when I arrive at the QAI?
A:
- Your notification letter will provide the date, location and time of your interview. Review a map of the campus to find the correct building. Allow ample time for commute and parking. Purchase a day parking pass to avoid tickets.
- Check in at the front desk with a picture ID.
- You will be asked to read and sign a confidentiality statement is that reminds you to keep the questions you are going to be asked confidential.
- You will receive information on the interview process and a copy of the job announcement to refresh your memory on the position.
Q: Why is my interview recorded?
A:
The California Education Code requires us to electronically record all QAIs and retain them for 90 days.
Q: What if I do not understand a question?
A:
- The questions will be posted on the table in front of each candidate. Review the question before answering and give the best answer you can.
- Keep eye contact with each person, with special attention given to the individual who asked the question.
- Keep professional body language at all times.
Q: When will I find out the results of the examination?
A:
Each candidate who passes or fails, will be notified in writing within seven (7) working days after the completion of the examination. If you pass, your letter will include your rank, all scores of all examinations and the duration of the eligibility list.
For additional links on oral panel interview tips:
http://www.co.yuba.ca.us/Departments/Personnel/documents/Misc/Toolbox/Preparing%20for%20an%20Oral%20Examination%20July%202008.pdf
http://www.911jobforums.com/showthread.php?t=48571
http://www.owensboro.org/departments/personnel/OralExamTrainingFY0506.pdf