Abstract
Faculty members in academic roles are often called upon to serve as chair of a search committee. This can be both an important and challenging role. Many faculty members may not have previous experience with search comittees or have undergone formal search committee training. Given the critical nature of conducting an effective search, the goal of this commentary is to provide practical guidance and insight on how to effectively fulfill the role as chair of a search committee. Literature and institutional polices regarding best practices in serving as a search committee chair were reviewed, and recommendations on navigating the various aspects of service as a committee chair and how to approach this role are provided.