What is 'Selection' ? Explain any four steps involved in the process of selection of employees.
Answer – Selection chooses the most suitable applicant for a job from the available candidates.
- Preliminary screening: reject applications that do not satisfy essential requirements.
- Selection tests: assess relevant abilities, aptitude, interests or personality.
- Employment interview: discuss the candidate's suitability and provide realistic information about the job.
- Reference and background checks: verify relevant information through authorised references and records.
- Selection decision: responsible managers choose the candidate after considering all evidence.
- Medical examination: assess fitness for the requirements of the job where appropriate.
- Job offer: communicate the offer, position and joining requirements.
- Contract of employment: record agreed terms such as title, duties, pay, allowances, working hours, leave and notice conditions.
No single test or interview should be treated as a perfect predictor; the process should be relevant, fair and consistent.