Upward mobility in the field of community college administration is affected by factors such as educational and social preparation, professional experience, the vita or resume, and an individual's preparation for a job opportunity. For most community college presidencies, a doctorate from an accredited, preferably non-experiential, institution is required, and selection committees are always going to look for some academic work in the community college. In terms of social preparation, consciousness of regional differences in values and social mores is important, as are the abilities to chat informally in social situations and to speak before a large group. Professional work experience is probably more important than the doctoral degree, with breadth and variety of experience adding to marketability. Experiences that are valued by search committees include those that demonstrate an ability to deal with personnel, an awareness of fiscal responsibility, an ability to plan and evaluate programs and services, and background in student and program development and community education. Of vital importance in demonstrating these experiences and abilities to the search committee is the vita or resume. It should be brief, clear, concise, and easy to read; it should include major honors, academic experience, association memberships, and significant accomplishments, along with some personal demographics and employment experience. The key to getting an interview for the position is a resume that attracts the attention of the search committee. Before the interview, the applicant should study the position, learning about the outgoing president, reviewing the audits and financial reports of the institution, reading news clippings, looking at the governance structure, and deciding whether he/she really wants the position. (EJV)