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

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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
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3. 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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9. 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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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14. 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
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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?
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