This paper considers how to determine leadership characteristics when selection committees conduct a search for a college or university president. It is based on the premise that specific psychological orientations, levels of consciousness, and motivations conducive to successful leadership in higher education can be identified. Search Committees are urged to look at candidates' ingrained ways of perceiving, behaviors, methods of interpreting information, and motivations. Committees might consider developing a psychological instrument specific to measuring candidates' perception of self-worth, worth of others, values, experience and perceptions concerning power, and the process of working with subordinates. Transactional Analysis is offered as one paradigm for such an effort. Specific neurotic psychological orientations that Committees should be aware of include the paranoid, compulsive, dramatic, depressive, and schizoid personality. Strategies for observing and examining behavior should be evaluated carefully, however, eliminating any immoral or illegal strategies. Other observations that should be made concern courtesy, overall demeanor, nervousness, and the questions asked prior to the interview. Contains 10 references. (GLR)