When pursuing a role in student affairs, the goal goes beyond just securing a position at a desirable institution or reporting to an appealing supervisor. One of the most crucial—and often overlooked—aspects of the job search is understanding who your future colleagues will be. Building relationships with the people you’ll work alongside is key to long-term satisfaction and success in the role. That’s why it’s just as important to assess your potential co-workers as it is to evaluate whether the institution’s values align with your own.
But how do you gain insight into individuals you haven’t even met yet, especially when personal interaction might be limited during the interview process? This is where background research becomes essential.
The Importance of Staff Research Before an Interview
This guide will walk you through how to effectively gather background information on the staff you’ll meet during an on-campus interview. We’ll explore why this research matters and break it down into two main categories: professional background and personal/social background. Together, this research can be compiled into a “staff background” section of your interview preparation materials or briefing book.
What is the Staff Background Section?
The staff background component of your interview prep involves compiling relevant information about the individuals you’ll meet or potentially work with. Since you may not have interacted with them previously, this research helps you better understand their roles, interests, and professional trajectories. This knowledge not only prepares you to engage meaningfully during interviews but also helps you decide whether the team dynamic fits your professional style.
Research Methods: Professional vs. Personal Insight
1. Professional Background Exploration
Understanding someone’s career path and current professional interests offers valuable context during an interview. Start by looking up each individual on professional platforms like LinkedIn. Review their career history, current role, and any listed achievements or affiliations. If available, skim their resumes or CVs to get a sense of their academic and work experience.
You should also look into their involvement in the professional community. Search for any presentations they’ve delivered at conferences (e.g., through organizations like NASPA or ACPA) and take note of their topics. If they maintain a blog or personal website, review those as well to understand their focus areas and passions.
This research will help you anticipate the types of questions they might ask and offer opportunities to tailor your own questions to their expertise—demonstrating both your interest and preparation.
Tools and Resources for Professional Research:
- Online searches for resumes or CVs
- Conference programs or proceedings
- Personal blogs or professional websites
- Your existing network—ask if anyone knows or has worked with these individuals
2. Personal and Social Background Exploration
While professional insight is essential, understanding the personal side of your future colleagues can also be beneficial. Shared interests, values, or educational backgrounds can help you build rapport and find common ground during interviews.
Start by asking your network if anyone has personal connections to individuals you’ll be meeting. In addition, explore publicly available information on social platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), or even Pinterest. While being respectful of privacy, look for clues that reveal their hobbies, alma maters, favorite sports teams, or community involvement. These small details can give you a well-rounded view of who they are outside of work.
Tools and Resources for Personal Research:
- X / Twitter
- Snapchat
- Your personal/professional contacts
Final Thoughts
Conducting background research on potential colleagues is a smart strategy when preparing for an on-campus interview. This preparation allows you to enter the interview with a deeper understanding of the team, helping you navigate conversations more effectively and evaluate the work environment more accurately. By combining insights from both professional credentials and social connections, you position yourself as an informed and thoughtful candidate—one who is not only seeking a job, but the right fit.