The analysis of the Candidate Selection forms for in-person interviews should result in the selection of the final candidate. At this point in the process, there are a few other items that may need to be considered.

Conducting Reference Checks

Employment related reference checks should be completed BEFORE the contingent offer is extended to the selected candidate. These are completed to both validate and learn more about a candidate’s prior work experiences. The Search Chair should conduct reference checks for all employers where the candidate experience is a consideration for the position they are being considered for here at WSU. If the candidate has indicated that an employer may not be contacted, DO NOT complete a reference on that company.
To assist you with this process, Human Resources has created the Prior Employment Reference Form.
Questions related to reference checks should be directed to Human Resources.

Unsuccessful Search

Occasionally the search may prove to be unsuccessful. One reason for an unsuccessful search may be a poorly constructed Position Description which did not attract a diverse pool of quality candidates. Other reasons may include lack of advertising, short posting times, or lack of local availability of qualified candidates.
In these cases, the search can be declared "failed." On a failed search, all applicants are notified that the position was not filled. It would then be up to the Hiring Manager as to whether they wanted to start over.

The position can be reposted to collect additional applicants with the hope that through additional advertising, the applicant pool demographic can be increased. It may also be appropriate to re-evaluate the position description and report if the qualifications need to be changed.

The position can be reposted to collect additional applicants with the hope that through additional advertising, the applicant pool demographic can be increased. It may also be appropriate to re-evaluate the position description and report if the qualifications need to be changed.

Filling two positions from one search (must do before this search is complete)

During a search, it is possible that more than a single top candidate will be identified. If funding is available and approval has been granted, it is possible to hire two (or more) top candidates from a single applicant pool. The Hiring Manager would direct that a second (or more) Request to Fill in PeopleAdmin for the additional position(s) be started. For additional information on this process, please contact Human Resources.

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These instructions apply to USS and UP searches.
For information on Faculty searches, please contact the Office of Academic Affairs.


SME:  MH/JW/MI/MT/LL

Revised:12/12/2019 MI