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Guide To Successful Searches - Candidate Visits

The campus visit is an extremely important part of selecting the ideal candidate. Communication and interaction with the candidate should represent the University in the most positive and favorable light possible. Just as search committee members will be evaluating the candidate, the candidate will be evaluating the University of Arizona to determine if the position and the organization are a good "fit" for him or her. The candidate's early impressions of the University will play a major role in the decision-making process.

1. Campus visit preparation
   
   
   • Make travel and lodging arrangements (when possible, pay for travel arrangements rather than reimbursing them)
   • Arrange for transportation to and from the airport
   • Allow candidate opportunity to request disability-related accommodations
   
   
   
2. Preparing the Candidate

   Taking the time to prepare a candidate for his or her visit sends an important message about the University of Arizona as a potential employer. The following items should be should be sent to each final candidate prior to the visit:

   • Letter of welcome confirming the day and time of the visit, travel and lodging arrangements, list of expenses that are reimbursable and contact information;
   • Itinerary for the visit including a complete schedule of events and the names and titles of individuals the candidate will meet. Provide opportunity for candidate to request disability-related accommodations
   • Brochures and information about the department, the University, benefits of UA employment, diversity efforts, and the Tucson community; and
   • Departmental mission and goals.
   
   
   
3. Welcoming the Candidate
   
   
   • Arrange for someone to meet and greet the candidate at the airport.
   • Arrange for a host to give the candidate a tour of the campus and to accompany the candidate to and from interview and open forum locations.
   • Schedule open forums within an accessible location and invite students, staff, faculty and interested members of the community.
   • Invite the candidate to meet with special interest groups or employees with whom he or she may have a particular affinity. Ensure that the selected location is accessible to all.
   • Arrange for the candidate to attend campus events.
   • Host a lunch and/or dinner with candidate and key representatives in an accesible location.
   • Schedule a meeting with a Human Resources Representative to discuss benefits, life and work resources, relocation services and dual career hire assistance for spouses and partners.