I will remember to tell the random newbie who PM me for deck help to F'off and ask who for advise from now on!
When I'm giving out titles, veteran members are almost always picked first. This is because they are more likely to stick around longer, and it's also a good way to reward their loyalty.
Also one thing that will guarantee a person won't get chosen is drama. It's like hiring people in real life. You pick the ones you think you can work with. If you get a feeling that the person might cause problems, you are not going to hire that person.
Veteran members...that already have other assignments in their portfolio?
I think the priority ought to be picking the ones the COMMUNITY can work with. In fact voting should be more relevant to this appointment than it is to say, picking a master of an element.
I'm sorry but I have to say while Yala's post in response is a little overdone, there is some truth in it *winces*
(EDIT: If there is a need for me to demonstrate my impartiality, please do consider me out of the running for this job)