Scoring & Evaluation Rubrics
Learn how Sara evaluates candidates across 5 dimensions (accuracy, depth, relevance, communication, examples). Configure custom competencies, scoring scales, and bias-reduction measures.
Evaluation Dimensions
Sara evaluates every answer across five core dimensions. Each dimension receives an independent rating. This multi-dimensional approach captures strengths that a single overall score would miss.
| Dimension | What Sara Evaluates | Example of a Strong Answer |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Is the answer factually correct and technically sound? | Correctly identifies the solution and explains trade-offs |
| Depth | How thoroughly did the candidate explain their reasoning? | Covers multiple layers: what, why, how, and edge cases |
| Relevance | Did the candidate address the actual question asked? | Stays focused on the question without tangential detours |
| Communication | Was the explanation clear, structured, and easy to follow? | Uses logical structure, transitions, and concise language |
| Examples | Did the candidate provide concrete, real-world examples? | References specific projects, metrics, or outcomes from experience |
Answer Ratings
Sara assigns each answer one of three ratings. These ratings feed into the overall score calculation.
| Rating | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Strong | Exceeds expectations across multiple dimensions |
| Adequate | Meets requirements with acceptable depth and accuracy |
| Weak | Below expectations in one or more critical dimensions |
Note
Unanswered questions receive a 20% score penalty each. This ensures candidates who skip questions are compared fairly with those who answer everything.
Overall Scoring Tiers
Sara calculates an overall score from 0-100 and assigns a tier. Each tier includes a clear hiring recommendation.
| Score | Tier | Hiring Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 90-100 | Exceptional | Hire immediately |
| 80-89 | Excellent | Recommend for next round |
| 70-79 | Good | Consider for role fit |
| 55-69 | Average | Meets minimum, review carefully |
| Below 55 | Below Average | Does not meet requirements |
Custom Competencies
Beyond the five default dimensions, you can add custom competencies specific to your organization. For example, add "Security Awareness" for a DevOps role or "Client Empathy" for a customer-facing position. Sara evaluates these custom competencies using the same structured rubric as the default dimensions. Add custom competencies in the job settings under the "Evaluation" tab.
Bias Reduction
Sara reduces hiring bias through structured evaluation. Every candidate answers the same questions, evaluated against the same rubric, with the same scoring criteria. Sara does not factor in name, gender, age, ethnicity, accent, or appearance. She scores based on content, reasoning, and demonstrated skill. This structured approach ensures a consistent baseline that human interviews often lack. Use Sara's scores as one input alongside your team's judgment, not as the sole decision-maker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adjust the weight of each evaluation dimension?
How does Sara handle candidates who answer in a different language?
Does Sara use keyword matching to score answers?
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