Main methods of selection
Application form/Digital application form
•Curriculum Vitae (CV)
•Testing
•Presentation
•Interview
Explain an application form
-Standard form used by employers
•Applicants complete sections detailing their:
•personal details
•qualifications
•experience/employment history
•additional information e.g. hobbies and interests, why they are suitable for the job etc
•Referee
Advantages of an application form
Fairness to candidates
Easier comparisons of candidates e.g their skills
Specific questions can be asked
(Once created it can be used again)
Disadvantage of application form
Time consuming
Costly
Not see candidate
Face to face
What is a cv and what does it do (curriculum vitae)
Contains information similar to that produced in an application form
•Produced by the candidate, using their own or a downloaded template (saves company time drawing up an application form, but reading and analysing CVs takes longer)
•Some employers will allow CVs to accompany an application form or request a CV only
•The use of CVs enables the candidate to tailor the CV to the job they are applying for (but also easier for them to hide information). It also demonstrates candidates ability to present information
What is testing
Testing can be:
•Aptitude tests - measure candidates’ ability to do the job
•Attainment tests - measure candidates’ ability in a certain skill area e.g. numeracy and literacy
•Psychometric tests - measure candidates’ personality, attitude and character
•Can allow you to test suitable skills but doesn’t show personality
What is presentation
Applicant gives a presentation to prospective employers on a designated topic
•Typically used in jobs where presentation skills are important
•Effective way test communication skills and knowledge
What do interviews do
Gives the employer the opportunity to assess potential candidates on a face to face basis
•Allows the opportunity to expand on information included in the application form/CV
•Interviews are sometimes overly influenced by appearance, personality and first impressions
What makes an effective application
Tailor your answers to the job
•Demonstrate how you meet essential and desirable criteria
•Highlight your skills
•Keep your information relevant and concise
•Use accurate spelling, punctuation and grammar
•Write neatly if not typed
•No blanks
•Follow the guidelines provided
•Keep a copy
•Check your online presence
How to prepare for an interview and presentation
Know your audience
•Research the firm thoroughly
•Plan and prepare well
•Rehearse
•Think about body language, such as eye contact, posture etc
•Think about your appearance
•Be prepared to answer questions clearly and concisely
•Be yourself
