Human Resources is seeking Illinois State University faculty and staff to take part in Search Advocate training in February of 2023.
I would recommend everyone go through the training, as it could help you recognize biases that may exist in everyday practices.
Lisa Mason
Search advocates are non-voting members of search committees but can provide insights on equitable practices and overcoming unconscious bias.
“The term is unconscious bias because people do not always realize the biases they may be perpetuating during a search,” said Director of Academic Employment and Executive Search Services Lisa Mason. “I would recommend everyone go through the training, as it could help you recognize biases that may exist in everyday practices.”
Search advocates seek to ensure equitable practices are centered at the inception and throughout University job searches. Working with search committees, search advocates are a resource that can assist in:
- Developing inclusive job descriptions
- Expanding the pool of candidates for a search
- Reviewing potential interview questions
- Providing insights during the interview and evaluation processes.
The spring 2023 training to become a Search Advocate will be conducted via Zoom from 12:30-4:30 p.m. on each of the following days:
- Monday, February 13
- Wednesday, February 15
- Monday, February 20
- Wednesday, February 22
Attendance at all four sessions is required to be certified. Advance registration is required to attend. Register here.
Those with questions about the Search Advocate Program or certification can contact Mason at lmmason@ilstu.edu. Those interested in adding an advocate to a future search should contact Mason as well. Find more information on the program on the Human Resources website.
