Interview Panel Research Project

In 2009 JTG, Inc conducted a survey of selection panel members who choose architectural and engineering firms for public sector work. We talked in person (and a few by telephone) with representatives of cities, counties, states, universities, colleges, tribes, and zoos. We explored eleven factors they consider during the interview and nine factors they consider when making their final decision about which firm to hire.

We learned about the following:

• who panels want to hear from during the interview
• how technical skills rate with relationship skills
• what the panels evaluate during the Q & A ‘s
• what panels think about the use – and overuse – of Power Point
• what panels are really looking for that they never mention in the preliminary information.

This is the second selection panel survey JTG has conducted. In 2003 we conducted the same type of survey. This information and insight has guided us in effectively coaching teams over the last several years.