GCSE Business Studies Unit 2 Developing a Business Human Resources: Selection

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Selection Learning outcomes to be covered: Describe the main methods of selection: application form, application letter, curriculum vitae (CV), testing, interviews and presentation. Evaluate different selection methods in different circumstances Discuss the responsibilities of both employer and employees in the selection process: honesty; objectivity; fairness; and confidentiality Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Main Methods of Selection Selection can be a two part process; - firstly using CVs, letters of application or application forms to short list - secondly inviting potential candidates in for interview or other activity Organisations may use one or both stages Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Activity – 20 minutes In small groups discuss the type of information which should be included in each of the selection methods listed below. You could draw out a table like the one shown to record your findings. Selection method What is included CV Letter of application Application form Presentation Interview Tests Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Selection method Advantages Disadvantages Application form Set format to gain information related to the job Makes initial assessment of applications easier Limited space for information Takes time to get the right questions together Application letter Able to assess experience and qualifications in relation to the job Able to assess applicants communication skills Useful in short listing All contain different information, taking time to read May be written by another person May contain false information Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Selection method Advantages Disadvantages Curriculum vitae Able to review applicants experiences, qualifications Easy to see information at a glance No set format so each one needs to be reviewed May not be completed by the applicant Testing Provides an opportunity to review the applicants skills against the job Confirm information on the application form Assess the applicants organisational skills Can be intimidating for the applicant Need additional time to be completed Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Selection method Advantages Disadvantages Interviews Provides an opportunity for the employer to judge the applicants confidence, attitude and communication skills Provides opportunity for both parties to ask further questions Able to assess and check the information on the application Can be intimidating for the applicant Doesn’t assess the applicants skills to do the job Not suitable for all types of jobs Applicant can rehearse answers Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Selection method Advantages Disadvantages Presentation Able to assess the applicants suitability for the job Opportunity to assess applicants communication skills Able to assess applicants skills in organising, prioritising and processing information Applicants are intimidated Not suitable for all job roles Can be time consuming during interviews Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Points to consider when identifying selection methods The type of job – administration, sales, practical Resources available – staff, rooms The skills and knowledge of those carrying out the selection Equality issues Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Activity – 10 minutes Working in groups identify the appropriate form of selection for the following situations, give a reason for your answer. Joan’s Cakes needs a new employee to be responsible for decorating wedding and birthday cakes. Enterprising cars is looking for a sales person to increase their car hire business across Northern Ireland. The recruitment is done from their UK office in England. The local college is looking to recruit a new Business Lecturer. The local Wildlife group is looking to increase its number of volunteers, they don’t have a standard application form and the advert asks for interested applicants to get in touch. Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Employee responsibilities: Honesty – when answering questions Preparation – find out about the company and job role Turn up on time Maintain confidentiality – don’t share points that were discussed during the interview Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Employer responsibilities: Non-discriminatory – e.g. don’t ask questions about religion Maintain confidentiality – e.g. don’t share information about other candidates Be fair throughout the process – e.g. interviewers agree the questions to be asked, plan time and venue for interviews giving flexibility to all candidates Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Employer responsibilities: Objectivity – all candidates should be asked the same questions so they can provide examples of their experience Honesty – questions asked about the job or organisation should be answered honestly Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Sample questions – 20 minutes Working individually complete the following past paper questions: June 2015 question 1d June 2014 question 1a and c May 2013 question 1b May 2012 question1b June 2011 question 1b Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk

Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk Learning Check Do you know: The main methods of selection used by businesses? How to evaluate different selection methods? The responsibilities of the employer in the selection process? The responsibilities of the employee in the selection process? Images © thinkstockphotos.co.uk