Once a business has  completed the recruitment process  they will then need to identify the most succesful candidates in order to appoint the best person for the job. The following stages are typically followed:

• Receive applications

• Shortlisting takes place (Identifying best applications for interviews)

• Interviews are held and further assessment or testing takes place

• Selection takes place and references obtained for the successful candidate (A reference is used to check a person's character)

• Appointment is made to the post

Application Form

•Standard form used by employers

•Applicants complete sections detailing their:

–personal details

–qualifications

–experience/employment history

–additional information eg hobbies and interests, why they are suitable for the job etc

–referees

•The use of application forms enables:

–fairness to candidates

–easier comparisons

–specific questions to be asked

Curriculum Vitae

•Contains information similar to that included in an application form. 

•Produced by the candidate, using their own or a downloaded template

•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

–demonstrates candidates ability to present information

Testing

Tests can be:

•aptitude tests

–measure candidate’s ability to do the job

•attainment tests

–measure candidates’ ability in a certain skill area eg numeracy, literacy

•psychometric tests

–measure candidate’s personality, attitude and character

Presentation

•Applicant gives a presentation to prospective employers on a designated topic

•Typically used in jobs where presentation skills are important

•Effective way to test communication skills and knowledge

Interview

•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

•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

•Know you 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

The video opposite gives some tips on interview skills.