A discussion of the faculty and administrator selection process looks at the function of search committees, the issue of confidentiality in records, and societal issues that need to be addressed. A number of factors in the effective use of search committees are outlined, including breadth of committee membership, quality of communication within the committee, focus on institutional needs, generation of a good candidate pool, use of consultants, maintenance of confidentiality, resolution of salary fairness issues, affirmative action efforts, attention to candidates' positive personal attributes, good interviewing techniques, using personnel office support, and thoughtfulness. Confidentiality is seen as essential in securing the strongest candidates, particularly when candidates are employed elsewhere. Two societal concerns in personnel selection include open meeting (sunshine) laws and the need to develop actively the talents and abilities in the minority population that are not being nurtured at present. (MSE)