30 Academic Dean Interview Questions & Answers
1. How do you like to be recognized for your accomplishments?
How to Answer
We all like to be recognized in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would want to be known for your hard work. Through gifts? Financial perks? Public recognition? Kind words? Title promotions?
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I am very simple. I do not really require any formal recognition, but kind words from my coworkers and superiors will keep me motivated and working hard."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is to be given words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged, and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work is being noticed."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced
"I am a highly competitive person who is compensation driven. I like to be recognized for my accomplishments through monetary bonus' where the stakes are high."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I do not need recognition and prefer to give recognition to others, especially rookie teachers. It makes me happier to see others receive recognition."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It's very nice that you prefer to recognize others; however, the interviewer will want some idea on how they can continue to encourage you on the job as well. Everyone needs some encouragement from time to time. I have added a sample, below.
"I prefer to give recognition to others, especially rookie teachers. It makes me happier to see others receive recognition. If I were to receive any credit, I would appreciate a quiet word of kindness and the autonomy to more freely award teachers who are going over and above."
2. What questions do you have for me in regards to this school, or position?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the school's website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of questions you could have found the answers to from merely watching a video on their website!
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Here are some sample questions:
- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the most significant change in this industry over the past three years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"A few questions do come to mind. What is the biggest goal for your school this year? And, what is your proudest accomplishment since working with this university?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced
"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes, I do have a question. What are the top characteristics you are looking for in the position? What do you see as challenges for the position?"
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
These are strong questions! If you wish, you can dig even further. I have provided an example below.
"What are the top characteristics you are looking for in this position, and do you feel that I have portrayed these characteristics in this meeting today?" (This gathers agreement and helps solidify your candidacy)
"What are the greatest challenges I will face in this position? I ask because I would like to actively work on a plan to overcome these challenges" (or something along those lines)."
3. What sources do you look to when solving complicated problems?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can think outside the box, or even ask for help when you are stuck on a complicated problem.
Maybe you look to a mentor or boss for advice. Perhaps you have handbooks, manuals and systems you turn to for help. You may turn to textbooks, online research, colleagues or even student body history to find the right solution. Show the interviewer that you are knowledgeable and equipped to handle these types of scenarios.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"If there's a complicated problem, I'll write out what I think the possible solutions would be, and make a note of what my gut tells me to do. Then, I will weigh those potential solutions against one another and list the complications that may arise as a result of each choice."
Written by Rachelle Enns
1st Answer Example
"When I am faced with a complicated problem, I will look to the resources that my current school has provided me. The answer is almost always in there. If it's more of a moral dilemma vs. a knowledge-based dilemma, I will ask my mentor for his thoughts and opinion since I value his expertise in the education industry."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced
"I have a great cohort of professors and deans from my years in the education industry. If I am stuck on a problem or feel I need some additional help, I reach out to this group. If nothing else, they're there to lend an ear and let me bounce my ideas off of them. I value this collaborative, supportive group that I've amassed over the years."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I refer to the institutional policies and procedures and the experience of my colleagues. I have found that my fellow Deans and coworkers often have great ideas and strategies for overcoming complicated problems. I really enjoy sharing ideas and learning from my colleagues."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It sounds as though you actively seek out learning opportunities from those around you, which is a factor that any interviewer should appreciate. Good enthusiasm in your answer!
4. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?
How to Answer
Is honesty always the best policy? Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on morality in the workplace.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I do feel that honesty is the best policy so long as the honest comment does not come with the intention of being hurtful."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Honesty is always the best policy. Being honest but cautious of the messages being sent will supplement trustworthiness among colleagues and students."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
You are absolutely right! The interviewer should appreciate that you also mention delivering honesty to build relationships vs breaking them down.
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5. How will you earn the trust of your faculty and coworkers?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you can win your new coworkers over. Workplace relationships are essential to nurture. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to earn the trust of your new co-workers, should you be offered the position.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Here are some ways that you can build trust with your coworkers:
- Show common courtesy. Say hello, hold the elevator door, bring coffees now and then
- Be respectful in your communication, avoid over cc'ing unnecessarily in emails
- Avoid being a distraction, and respect the use of their time
- Respect their personal space and the line between work life and personal life
- Always ask if they have time before diving into a conversation
- Try to find the answer to your questions before running to ask a manager or co-worker
- Connect with them on LinkedIn but avoid more personal social media platforms
- Treat everyone the same, regardless of their job title
- Do not complain about your job to your coworkers
- Reach out to new employees and make them feel comfortable
- Own up to your mistakes and fix them
- Be timely with your followups and meet your deadlines"
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Trust is the foundation for building relationships, and these relationships will be vital in my ability to succeed as a Title 1 Dean. I will earn my teachers' trust by having integrity, and by being honest and treating everyone fairly. I will earn their trust by being an active, empathetic listener, always keeping my word, and always giving them my undivided attention. I will look for opportunities to make connections and to stay in tune with their personal needs."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
This response would make me want to hire you on the spot. Very well said!
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6. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"As I am newer to my career as a dean, I would like to be offered a fair salary that reflects my recent education. I am most concerned with joining an organization that will help me to grow my career as an academic dean. Compensation is not my primary driver."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I would want a minimum of $77,000."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Try qualifying the ask with a bit more background, and avoid giving the interviewer your bottom line right away. I have added a sample below.
"I would like to earn above where I am now, given the added responsibilities and larger student population in this role. Currently, I earn $77,000 per year plus benefits."
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7. How do you like to encourage ideas in your faculty or student body?
How to Answer
Encouragement to others is a great skill to possess. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to encourage creative ideas in your team members.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Here are some ways that you can encourage ideas in others:
- Get to know them and what they like to work on
- Send an encouraging email letting them know you like their plan or ideas
- Publicly praise their efforts
- If they are doing a great job, offer them more related opportunities
- If you are a leader, then tell them that you like their ideas
- Say things like 'Well done' or 'Nice work' on a regular basis
- Show that you believe in their quality of work before they even deliver it"
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I will ask what someone is working on or would like to be working on. I ask for ideas. Sometimes people can talk about them, sometimes a post-it note helps. I may also suggest they drop me an email. All ideas are good ideas. People have to believe that or they won't collaborate to come up with the best. Again, a trust culture matters."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It's good that you brought in the trust culture gain. This is a great answer and shows excellent leadership abilities.
"I will ask what someone is working on or would like to be working on. I ask for ideas. Sometimes people can talk about them, sometimes a post-it note helps. I may also suggest they drop me an email. All ideas are good ideas. People have to believe that, or they won't collaborate to come up with the best. Again, a culture of trust matters."
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8. Do you consider yourself a patient person? How do you increase your patience level in challenging situations?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you consider yourself a patient individual. Impatience can cause a lot of stress and anxiety in coworkers, so it is essential that you can showcase your ability to remain patient and professional in workplace situations.
Patience is indeed a virtue but can be challenging to maintain when it seems that situations continue to push your buttons. Show the interviewer that you possess the ability to keep your cool in challenging conditions.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I am fairly patient, with other people. I tend to be impatient with myself if I am not finishing a project as fast as I think I should be. But, I am learning to be patient with myself as well. I find that breathing exercises, and closing my eyes for a few seconds can help me regroup."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes, I believe I am a patient person. In challenging situations, I do a lot of listening to measure all participants' viewpoints. After listening, I acknowledge the concerns and possibly offer solutions or compromising plans."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It seems you are a keen listener and a thoughtful communicator who acknowledges all sides of a situation. These qualities are essential for an Academic Dean to possess. Great answer!
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9. How do you handle a larger than average workload?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to be assured that you can handle the workload required of you in this position and that you will not become overwhelmed if/when workloads unexpectedly increase. When workloads increase, stress levels do too. How do you react?
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Here are some suggestions on how to handle a large workload:
- List your tasks and prioritize them
- Think of which tasks add to the company's bottom line, and start there (Closest to the money!)
- Exhale. Relax for a minute and collect yourself
- Organize your tasks by which ones you can complete independently and which ones you need help with
- Take sufficient breaks, so you do not exhaust yourself
- Communicate your struggles with your leadership or team"
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I am at my best when I have a long "to-do" list because it requires me to prioritize and stay focused on the job at hand."
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Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It sounds like you do well with large workloads which is exactly what the interviewer will like to hear.
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10. When have you worked among a diverse group of people?
How to Answer
Are you accustomed to working with a very large or diverse team of individuals? Assure the interviewer that you can handle an environment that offers diversity.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"In my current role, I work alongside diverse, cross-functional teams on a daily basis. Together, we manage the school very effectively."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I have spent my entire career working with diverse groups of people and students. I believe working with diverse people has made me a better person because I value, respect, and appreciate the cultural differences each of us have brought to the table. I would not have wanted it to be any different."
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Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Well said!
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11. How do you handle communicating bad news to a fellow worker or subordinate?
How to Answer
One of the toughest parts of communication can be delivering bad news to people that you work with and care about. Whether it is delivering a less than positive work review or terminating someone - it doesn't come easy. Assure the interviewer that you can handle this type of task in a transparent, concise, and professional manner.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I have found that communicating with respect and the intent to support the team member is the best approach. It is important to communicate what behaviors are off track and what resources are available to the individual to get back on track."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Delivering bad news to a fellow worker or subordinate is always a challenge. Depending on the news institutional policy and the individual, the news may need to be conveyed privately or in a witness's presence. Also, as a leader, the intent of the communication must be delivered clearly and possibly include improvement plans."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Your approach is wise and also very respectful. You deliver this response very well!
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12. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
On a scale of 1-10, how skilled are you in communication? Why did you choose that particular rating for yourself?
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I will rate myself an 8.5 because I consider myself a strong communicator. It is the foundation of all success in business. I am always striving to be a better communicator, so I leave the rest of the scale as an aspirational measure."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I will rank my communication skills at an 8. I always try to make an initial connection to the person or persons. I may comment upon something I know about them and their job, a well-done, etc. I try to use a framework to guide my discussions, why, what goals, who, what are my expectations, opportunity for questions. I often craft responses or an outline for unique or difficult communication."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Great answer! You sound very prepared and confident; giving specifics on what you do to improve communication in the workplace.
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13. Tell me about a time when you improved communication between yourself and a co-worker or client.
How to Answer
Possessing the skills to improve communication in the workplace is a precious asset. Talk to the interviewer about your ability to enhance communication in the workplace.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I had a faculty member who often missed email updates. It caused us to cross our wires a few times. I suggested that we book a quick call every week to review any outstanding areas that need to be addressed. This process worked well for us."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Communication is so important in so many ways, especially when you are trying to communicate with a campus of teachers. When I was a grade-level lead teacher, I communicated with my team by sending them a weekly WAAG (Week at a Glance). The WAAG was simple, listing bulleted reminders for the upcoming week. This helped keep my team informed and in the loop on any important changes or responsibilities that came down the chain."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Your system of communication sounds straightforward and effective. Nice answer!
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14. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with delays in the workplace.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Setbacks can be trying, but I find that you have to learn how to lose before you learn how to win. While I never enjoy a setback, I use them as a stepping off point to something even better."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"While setbacks could be viewed as negative, they are inevitable. Therefore, a leader must remain strong and perseverant. I take setbacks as an opportunity for improvement and leadership strengthening."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Your approach to setbacks is professional and shows a high level of emotional intelligence. If you have an example of a time when you have bounced back and strengthened from a setback, this is an excellent time to give a specific example.
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15. Tell me about an organization or group outside of work that you contributed to.
How to Answer
Many hiring managers will choose one candidate over another because of their volunteer experience. They feel that it shows strong character and selflessness which are all qualities that make a great employee!
Talk to the interviewer about your willingness to give back to your community in some form of volunteerism. If you do not have formal volunteer experience, you can draw on things you do in your spare time to assist friends, family, or even your current employer.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I have not formally volunteered in recent years; however, I spend a lot of time helping my sister who is a single mom. I will babysit on weekends, cook dinners for her and drive the kids to appointments when necessary. I feel that it is essential to take care of the needs of the family."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I regularly volunteer with the children activities in my church, the Parent-Teacher Organizations within my child's school, and recently became a board member of the _____________. Each of these opportunities allows me to help others in the community."
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Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Good for you! Studies show that hiring authorities give preference to candidates who actively volunteer, so this response should fair very well!
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16. Why do you want a career as an academic dean?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know why a career as an academic dean may interest you. You can add a personal touch when answering this question. Be sure that your passion for your job comes through in your answer!
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"As an academic dean, I feel that I will be able to utilize my recently elevated education while making a bigger impact in the education industry by setting fresh academic policies, and better-overseeing budgets."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"During my twenty-year career, I have been fortunate to work under many incredible leaders, who helped shape me into the educator I am. I want the opportunity to share the knowledge and skills I've learned with teachers to help them grow professionally and to be the best they can be."
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Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
A sincere and honest response like this will always go a long way. Very well said.
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17. Would you consider returning to school to complete your PhD?
How to Answer
As an Academic Dean, you may have a Bachelors Degree, a Masters Degree or a Ph.D. If you have not achieved your Ph.D. discuss with the interviewer if you see value in it, for yourself.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Absolutely! I am very passionate about continuing education and see a lot of value in obtaining my Ph.D. down the road."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I am currently enrolled in an Ed.D. program to enhance my academic leadership skills. Throughout the experience, I have greatly valued the courses on personal leadership, the leadership of others, and the management in diverse populations. I feel this experience will make me a positive fit for the Associate Dean position."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Well said! You put a lot of emphasis on your continued education, and it's apparent that this education has added a lot of value for you career-wise and beyond.
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18. What is your proudest moment as a teacher or leader?
How to Answer
As an Academic Dean, you will have many students and faculty looking up to you. Your passion for the job must shine through! Talk to the interviewer about what the proudest moment in your career has been so far.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"So far, my greatest accomplishment as an academic dean is upgrading my Masters' degree to a Ph.D. while working full time. I learned so much about personal and professional diligence, and am forever grateful for the opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"One of my proudest moments was when I led my 4th-grade team in redesigning our reading program by writing a $30,000 grant for books to use in the implementation of a guided reading program that resulted in an over 30% rise in students' academic achievement that school year."
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Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
That's an exciting and memorable example! Great answer.
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19. Are you familiar with this States academic criteria?
How to Answer
Academic criteria could change from state to state. If you are relocating from another state for this position, assure the interviewer that you understand the difference, if any, between your last positions requirements and this one.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Yes, I have made sure to become familiar with this states' academic criteria before coming here today. They are not far different from the state where I previously worked. Should I be the chosen candidate, I would be sure to know this state's academic criteria very thoroughly."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes, I have been employed in a Texas higher education institution for the last 14 years. I have noticed the emphasis and value on course assessment become mandatory and not optional. I have also become very familiar with the course requirements based on standards provided in the ACGM and WECM."
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Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Excellent! You clearly know the criteria in Texas, as well as the changes that have come about over the years. Nice, confident answer.
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20. How active do you plan to be with your faculty?
How to Answer
Being hands-on and active with your staff is an integral part of being an active leader. Assure the interviewer that you plan to be an active part of the school community.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Being active with my faculty is very important to me. I plan to stay active with my new faculty by getting to know them on a professional level, as well as understanding what motivates them to perform."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I plan to be regularly active with the faculty. Regular meetings and discussions with them will provide updates regarding the institution and allow for opportunities for the faculty and staff to share their opinions and ideas. The faculty and staff are interacting with the students on a regular and almost daily basis. Therefore, their thoughts are greatly valued."
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Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It's wonderful that you put so much value on the opinion of faculty and staff. It seems that you genuinely care about their input!
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21. Give me an example of a new academic rule or regulation that you have created.
How to Answer
As an Academic Dean, you should have experience with creating and enforcing academic rules and regulations. Discuss your experiences with the interviewer and be sure to highlight your most significant wins when it comes to academic rules.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I have not yet had the opportunity to create any new academic rules. With that said, I have a keen interest in creating a safe environment for students. If the opportunity arose, I would first choose to update our school's bullying policies to include cyber-bullying."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I am currently working on developing our college's learning and teaching policy. I am really concerned about our programs' quality; I feel we need to improve our course Sylvi making it competency-based and aligning to industry needs. Also, due to increasing plagiarism cases, develop new college-based plagiarism in line with the university policy."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Excellent answer! You are clear on some of the significant projects you are tackling and its positive impact on your college. Well done.
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22. Tell me about your exposure to budgeting and fundraising in your last position.
How to Answer
Discuss with the interviewer the types of budgets and fundraising efforts that you have managed. Be sure to mention any significant results or achievements.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Fundraising was not a large part of my previous role; however, I did manage our school's budget very carefully. I believe that my minor in business finance lends itself quite well when it comes to tasks such as budgeting."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I have long term experience with managing the budget within a discipline. I am currently utilizing and prioritizing the current budget in my Interim Associate Dean position while building a plan for next year's budget. The necessities for maintaining the department is consistent, but upgrades and faculty requests must be prioritized. To accomplish some requests, grants are an option. I am currently reviewing and working with others on receiving a grant for updates in our physics lab."
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Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
It seems that you have a great deal of experience in budget management and utilization. You show strong knowledge when it comes to prioritization of funds/requests as well. Nice work!
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23. Outline your formal education and training.
How to Answer
Your education background may be listed on your resume so be sure to expand on it a little bit. For instance - talk about your favorite course or any awards that you may have received while attending post-secondary studies.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I am a big believer in post-secondary education. It adds a lot of value to those newer to the workplace. My post-secondary education was in education administration. The courses in this program helped me to develop stronger relationships in the educational field. I also learned persuasive writing skills which have proven to be incredibly helpful when working on grant proposals and fundraising materials."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I have earned the following degrees: Terminal Degree: Ph.D. in Sociology, Graduate Degree in Management, and Undergraduate Degree in Sociology. I have had advance training in Executive Leadership."
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Our Professional Interview Coach
Stephanie Cafaro Reviewed the Above Answer
Your education is impressive! Given that you're interviewing for a role in academia, I would suggest including the name of the institution where each degree was earned.
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24. How do you assess academic performance?
How to Answer
Academic performance is a significant focus for Academic Deans. Talk to the interviewer about your areas of attention when it comes to assessing a student's academic performance.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I believe that students should be assessed three to four times per year. In our current school, our teachers administer academic evaluations after each module is complete. The evaluations are comprehensive and clearly show us where we need to focus further."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Academic performance is dependant on many factors and levels. While the primary emphasis is typically placed on state-mandated learning or program outcomes, the methods to assess range from quizzes, homework, and exams. I believe regular assessments throughout the semester and providing performance feedback to students allow personal reflections for improvement. Additionally, the improvement may be at the student level or instructor level."
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Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
There are many factors to proper assessment, and you do a fantastic job outlining many of these. Good, thorough answer!
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25. Why are you the best Academic Dean for us?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know why you feel you are the best choice for this position. What makes you stand out from other potential applicants? Now is the time to brag about yourself and your abilities a little bit. Don't be shy! Highlight qualities that are unique.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I feel that being newer to my career as an academic dean gives me an advantage to many other applicants. I plan to carve a long-term career with your university while incorporating fresh perspectives that a more tenured dean will likely not possess."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I could say that I am the best Dean for you because of my in-depth knowledge of curriculum at all levels, or my experiences in serving language learners at all levels, but that is not the best reason I'm your person. What makes me the best is my passion and love of instruction. My excitement and my ability to motivate others, as well as my ability to think outside the box to meet student needs, are qualities that will make me a great Dean."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Kevin Downey Reviewed the Above Answer
Highly impressive how you solidified the fact that you’re qualified through experience, while adding in more heartfelt reasons why you’re the best for the job. This answer is well rounded and will make an impact on the interviewer. Take a look at how I’ve adjusted your answer to drive the marks of your success home.
"There are many qualified individuals who also share my in-depth knowledge of curriculum at all levels, and my experience serving language learners at all levels. But I feel what sets me apart is my overwhelming passion and love of instruction. My excitement and my ability to motivate others, as well as my ability to think outside the box to meet student needs, are qualities I feel too many in the job are missing. Whether they’re burnt out in the jobs or they're just doing it for the money, I have a genuine passion for my work, and find my career most rewarding. There might be others who share this as well, but I identify these points as some of what sets me apart."
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26. What three words would you use to describe yourself as an Educator?
How to Answer
If you could sum up your teaching style in just three words what would they be? Display to the interviewer that you are a good fit by choosing descriptive words that are unique. If there are keywords that are used quite often in the job posting, job description, or the school's values you can draw on those as well.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Here are some words that may describe you as an educator:
- Compelling
- Engaging
- Interactive
- Mentor
- Motivating
- Involved
- Hands-on
- Dedicated
- Patient
- Positive
- Nurturing
- Goal oriented
- Compassionate
- Intelligent"
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I would use the words passionate, determined, and researcher."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Perfect.
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27. How would you handle a situation where one of your faculty members was causing difficulty in the workplace?
How to Answer
As an Academic Dean, you are tasked with leading your faculty members. What would you do if one of those members caused you difficulty? Discuss with the interviewer how you would address a situation like this. Remain positive, factual, and avoid naming names in a case like this. You want to show the interviewer that you are an agent of change and not a petty individual.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"If I were to have a faculty member causing difficulty in the workplace I would first check in with their union representative to ensure that any course of disciplinary action fell in line with union regulations and policy. After that, I would schedule a one on one conversation with that individual with the goal of that meeting to be making a plan to rectify the situation. A clear plan of action and potential recourse would be outlined."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I would listen, gather data from relevant sides. I ask the faculty member to explain in case I misunderstood or have erroneous information. I then directly outline what the problem is as I understand it and why it is a problem, seek solutions, and set a date for review. I would jot notes documenting the discussion for a personnel file."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Perfect. You show a level head, and it's good that you expressed how you go about documenting the conversation as well.
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28. How do you decide what gets top priority when scheduling your time?
How to Answer
As an Academic Dean, you will have a large variety of tasks on your plate, and you must be able to quickly and efficiently prioritize your schedule and the schedule of others. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of this task.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"Assuming that the projects have different stakeholders, I would interview each to determine the value of increased productivity, morale or revenue, decreased costs, and the overall impact."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I prioritize based on the degree of urgency of the problem."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Great start! If you were giving this answer in an interview, it would be best to elaborate. You can achieve a fuller response by providing an example of a time when you encountered this situation and met a deadline through excellent reaction time, for instance.
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29. As an Academic Dean you will be exposed to a wide variety of people, situations and environments. Do you feel prepared for this?
How to Answer
As an Academic Dean, you will be exposed to a vast array of people and situations. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of handling this.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I am certainly prepared to work in a diverse environment. In fact, I embrace it. I understood, before even applying here, that your university offers a diverse range of their student body and also their faculty. I find this to be very exciting and I look forward to learning more as the interview process continues."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes, I have lived and worked overseas and in the US at a variety of HE types with a vast array of diverse people and projects. I am very field independent. I can work and be successful in building upon relationships to meet goals. The strengths come into play here: strategic, activator, individualization, arranger, and learner. I am always looking for a way forward with the implementation that is sustainable."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Fantastic answer! Your overseas experience is very valuable so I'm glad you brought that into your response.
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30. What motivates you to succeed?
How to Answer
A great employer will always want to know how they can keep you motivated and engaged on the job. Be open with the interviewer on what keeps you motivated to succeed at work.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"I have an internal drive that is second to none. My daily motivation comes from the promise I have made to my school, and the student body, to always give them the level of education that they deserve and need."
Written by Rachelle Enns
User-Submitted Answer
"I am motivated by seeing my faculty, staff, and students succeed. When they accomplish success and overcome challenges, I, as a leader, feel successful."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Your motivators are driven by the success of others, which any interviewer will love to hear. Very nice answer - well said!
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