by Mahbub Zaman Ashrafi | Nov 18, 2023 | HR Articles, Life
A colleague of mine who has been working in the Human Resources Department for the last 20 years, was arguing to me that recruitment and selection is the same thing. According to him/her (don’t want to embarrass him/her) selection is a part of recruitment. That is when I realised that many people mistakenly believe that recruitment and selection are identical, or that selection is merely a component of recruitment. In reality, these are two distinct processes. The following article provides a clear explanation of how they differ.
Recruitment and selection are two distinct phases in the process of hiring employees, each with its own steps and objectives.
Recruitment
- Identifying the Need: The first step involves recognizing the need for a new employee, typically due to business growth, the development of new departments, or replacing departing staff.
- Job Analysis: This involves understanding the requirements of the role, including responsibilities, skills needed, and the role’s importance within the organization.
- Creating a Job Description: Based on the job analysis, a detailed job description is prepared, outlining the responsibilities, qualifications, and experience required for the role.
- Sourcing Candidates: This can be done through various channels like job postings on websites, social media, referrals, or using recruitment agencies.
- Advertising the Position: The job is advertised to attract candidates. This includes deciding where to post the job (online job boards, company website, etc.) and crafting an appealing job advertisement.
- Managing Responses and Shortlisting: Responses from candidates are collected and reviewed. The most suitable candidates are shortlisted for further assessment.
Selection
- Screening and Shortlisting: This step involves a more thorough review of the shortlisted candidates from the recruitment phase, often using specific criteria to identify the most qualified candidates.
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews. This can involve several rounds of interviews, including HR interviews, technical interviews, and interviews with higher management.
- Assessments and Testing: Depending on the job, candidates might undergo various tests (skills tests, personality assessments, etc.) to evaluate their suitability for the position.
- Reference and Background Checks: To verify the information provided by candidates and to ensure there are no legal or behavioral issues, reference and background checks are conducted.
- Job Offer: Once a candidate is selected, a job offer is made. This includes negotiating terms and conditions of employment.
- Onboarding: After acceptance of the job offer, the new employee undergoes an onboarding process where they are introduced to the company, its culture, and their specific role.
Key Differences
Purpose: Recruitment is about attracting a large pool of candidates and ensuring there’s a wide selection to choose from. Selection is about narrowing down this pool to the most suitable candidate.
Scope: Recruitment is a proactive process focusing on creating interest and encouraging as many candidates as possible to apply. Selection is a reactive process where the focus is on evaluating and choosing among the applicants.
Activities: Recruitment involves advertising, communicating with potential candidates, and managing applications. Selection involves interviews, assessments, and making the final hiring decision.
Outcome: The outcome of recruitment is a pool of candidates who have applied for the job. The outcome of selection is the best candidate who is offered the position.
Both recruitment and selection are crucial for finding the right candidate for a job, but they focus on different stages of the hiring process.
by Mahbub Zaman Ashrafi | Nov 7, 2023 | HR Articles
Organizational research can be pivotal in navigating conflict in various ways. By applying systematic inquiry, gathering data, and analyzing patterns, research offers a structured approach to understanding the complex dynamics of conflict within organizations and guides the development of strategies to manage and resolve these conflicts effectively. Here’s how organizational research can help:
- Diagnosing Conflict Causes: Research can help identify the underlying causes of conflict, whether they are structural, social, or personal. For example, by using surveys or interviews, an organization can gather information to understand the sources of conflict, such as scarce resources, clashing personalities, or misaligned goals.
- Understanding Conflict Dynamics: Research helps in mapping the dynamics of conflict, including who is involved, the stages it goes through, and how it escalates or de-escalates. Longitudinal studies can track conflicts over time, providing insights into their lifecycle within the organization.
- Evaluating Conflict Resolution Strategies: Through research, organizations can assess the effectiveness of various conflict resolution strategies, such as mediation, negotiation, or team-building activities. Experimental or quasi-experimental designs can compare the outcomes of different interventions to determine what works best in certain contexts.
- Training and Development: Research findings can inform the design of training programs that enhance employees’ conflict resolution skills. By understanding what competencies are most effective in resolving conflicts, such as communication or emotional intelligence, training can be more targeted and effective.
- Improving Communication: Organizational research often reveals communication breakdowns as a central issue in conflict. Surveys, content analysis of communication channels, and network analysis can identify patterns that need to be addressed to improve the flow of information and reduce misunderstandings.
- Enhancing Organizational Culture: Research into organizational culture can uncover cultural norms that contribute to conflict. Studies that examine the alignment of individual and organizational values can lead to cultural interventions that foster a more collaborative environment.
- Policy Development: Organizational research can guide the development of policies and procedures that prevent and manage conflicts, such as anti-harassment policies or clear procedures for raising and addressing grievances.
- Decision Making and Negotiation: Research on decision-making processes can reveal biases and heuristics that lead to conflict. Negotiation research provides insights into strategies that can lead to more mutually beneficial outcomes.
- Predictive Analytics: Advanced analytical techniques can help predict where conflicts are likely to arise, allowing for preemptive action. For instance, sentiment analysis of employee communications may indicate rising tension before it becomes an overt conflict.
- Tailoring Solutions to Diversity: Research into the diversity of the workforce can inform conflict resolution approaches that are culturally sensitive and tailored to the needs of a diverse employee population.
By employing these and other research-driven strategies, organizations can move from a reactive stance—where conflicts are addressed after they have become problematic—to a more proactive one, where potential conflicts are anticipated, understood, and managed before they escalate. This transition not only contributes to a more harmonious workplace but can also enhance productivity, creativity, and overall organizational effectiveness.
by Mahbub Zaman Ashrafi | Nov 5, 2023 | HR Articles
Human Resources (HR) departments are tasked with a wide range of responsibilities, from recruiting and hiring to managing employee benefits and resolving conflicts. However, many employees view HR with skepticism and distrust, often viewing them as the enemy rather than an ally. But why do employees hate HR, and what can HR do to change this negative perception?
One of the main reasons why employees may dislike HR is that they often perceive them as lacking empathy and understanding. HR staff members are responsible for enforcing company policies and regulations, which can sometimes feel impersonal and inhumane to employees who may be struggling with personal issues. In addition, HR staff may not fully understand the day-to-day realities of employees’ work lives, leading to a disconnect between employees and HR.
To combat this perception, HR can take steps to better understand the concerns and needs of employees. This can include conducting regular surveys or focus groups to gather feedback on company policies and procedures, as well as providing training to HR staff on how to better communicate and empathize with employees.
Another reason why employees may dislike HR is that they perceive them as lacking trustworthiness. In some cases, HR may be seen as having a hidden agenda, such as protecting the company’s interests over those of employees. Additionally, HR staff members may be viewed as gossips or lacking discretion, leading to concerns about confidentiality and privacy.
To address this perception, HR can focus on building trust with employees by being transparent and honest in their interactions. This can involve being upfront about company policies and procedures, as well as being open to employee feedback and concerns. HR staff can also take steps to ensure that employee information is kept confidential and that privacy is respected.
Employees may also view HR as ineffective or powerless in addressing their concerns. This can be due to a lack of follow-through or visible results, as well as a perception that HR is not taking employee concerns seriously. In some cases, employees may feel that HR is more focused on enforcing rules and regulations rather than addressing their needs.
To change this perception, HR can take steps to ensure that employees feel heard and that their concerns are addressed in a timely and effective manner. This can involve creating clear channels for employee feedback, such as a suggestion box or regular meetings with HR staff. HR can also work to ensure that employees are aware of the resources available to them, such as an employee assistance program or access to mental health services.
In conclusion, employees may have negative perceptions of HR due to a perceived lack of empathy, trustworthiness, and effectiveness. To change this perception, HR can take proactive steps to better understand employees’ concerns, build trust and transparency, and improve their effectiveness in addressing employee needs. By building a stronger relationship between HR and employees, organizations can create a more positive and productive workplace culture.
by Mahbub Zaman Ashrafi | Nov 5, 2023 | HR Articles
Handling misconduct in a fair and effective manner is essential for maintaining a healthy work or social environment. While traditional methods like counselling and disciplinary actions are commonly used, here are five unconventional ways to address misconduct:
Restorative Justice Circles:
Sure we can rely on punitive measures. However, instead of relying solely on punitive measures, we may consider implementing restorative justice circles. This involves bringing together the person responsible for the misconduct, the victim, and relevant stakeholders to have an open and constructive conversation. The goal is to foster understanding, empathy, and reconciliation, rather than simply punishing the offender.
Anonymous Feedback Systems:
Implement an anonymous feedback system to encourage individuals to report misconduct without fear of retaliation. This unconventional approach can help identify issues that may not come to light through traditional reporting channels. Ensure a reliable and confidential system for submissions.
Peer-Led Interventions:
Empower peers to address misconduct within their own circles. This approach can be effective in schools and workplaces. Peers can undergo training on how to identify and address misconduct, making it more likely that issues are resolved within the community before escalating to authorities or management.
Employee-Led Accountability Boards:
Establish a board of employees who are responsible for evaluating misconduct cases and suggesting resolutions. These employees can be selected or elected by their peers, making the process more democratic and giving the workforce a greater sense of ownership over the workplace culture.
Artistic Expression and Storytelling Workshops:
Create a space for individuals to express themselves through artistic mediums or storytelling. Encourage them to share their experiences and emotions related to misconduct. This can be a therapeutic and cathartic way to address underlying issues and promote empathy among those involved.
The effectiveness of these unconventional methods may vary depending on the specific context and the severity of the misconduct. In some cases, it may be appropriate to combine these approaches with more traditional disciplinary measures to ensure that misconduct is appropriately addressed while also working to prevent its recurrence.
by Mahbub Zaman Ashrafi | Nov 4, 2023 | HR Articles
Before diving into the crux of the matter, let’s set the record straight: this article isn’t sponsored. Neither the makers of WP Job Opening plugins nor WordPress have compensated me for the insights I’m about to share. What drives this piece is a genuine eagerness to help small businesses and recruitment managers harness a powerful, budget-friendly tool for talent acquisition.
Navigating the digital recruitment landscape can seem daunting, especially with premium platforms often demanding hefty fees. That’s where WordPress plugins, particularly those designed for job openings, come into play. They provide a dynamic platform for businesses to create a comprehensive CV bank and streamline the application process—without the financial burden.
As a testament to the community spirit that WordPress embodies, I am extending a hand to anyone who might need assistance in setting up and using these valuable plugins. If you’re interested in establishing your own CV bank but feel unsure about the technicalities, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’ll guide you through the installation and provide training on how to make the most of this resourceful tool. And the best part? My assistance comes at no cost.
– Mahbub Zaman Ashrafi
In the competitive landscape of talent acquisition, small businesses and recruitment managers often face the challenge of sourcing candidates without the substantial budgets required for premium platforms like bdjobs or LinkedIn. Fortunately, the flexibility of WordPress as a content management system offers a cost-effective and efficient solution through WP Job Opening plugins. These plugins not only streamline the job posting process but also enable the creation of a CV bank and the gathering of job applications directly through a company’s website. This article explores how small businesses can utilize these plugins to optimize their recruitment process.
Understanding WP Job Opening Plugins
WP Job Opening plugins are add-ons for WordPress websites that transform a site into a job board. They allow businesses to list job openings, categorize them, and accept job applications. Applications are stored within the WordPress database, creating a readily accessible CV bank for current and future hiring needs. These plugins come with various features, including customizable application forms, automated job alerts, and applicant tracking systems.
Creating a CV Bank with WP Job Opening Plugins
One of the primary benefits of using WP Job Opening plugins is the ability to build a CV bank. This resource becomes invaluable over time as it collects data from a pool of potential candidates. Here’s how small businesses can generate and manage a CV bank:
- Customizable Job Listings: Employers can create detailed job descriptions with essential qualifications and skills, ensuring that only relevant candidates apply.
- Application Form Builder: Recruiters can design application forms to capture specific information from applicants, making it easier to sort and rank candidates based on qualifications.
- Applicant Tracking: As applications come in, the plugin organizes and stores them in the WordPress backend, creating a searchable database of candidates.
- Data Export Options: Some plugins offer the capability to export applicant data, allowing for easy migration to other HR tools or for compliance with data protection regulations.
Streamlining Job Application Management
Managing incoming job applications can be daunting, but WP Job Opening plugins simplify the process:
- Filtering and Sorting: Recruiters can filter applications based on different criteria, helping to quickly identify the most promising candidates.
- Communication Tools: These plugins may include options to send emails to candidates directly from the dashboard, facilitating efficient communication.
- Integration with Email Services: Integration with services like Mailchimp can automate job alerts to candidates in the CV bank, keeping them engaged with new opportunities.
Cost-Effective Recruitment
Small businesses are often restricted by their recruitment budget. WP Job Opening plugins offer a cost-effective alternative:
- Low Overhead: Unlike paid job boards, WordPress plugins require a one-time purchase or are sometimes free with optional paid upgrades.
- In-House Control: Managing recruitment in-house through a website reduces the need for external agencies, saving on commission fees.
- Branding Opportunities: Job listings on a company’s website can be customized to fit the brand, providing a consistent and professional candidate experience.
Best Practices for Using WP Job Opening Plugins
To maximize the effectiveness of these plugins, consider the following best practices:
- Keep Listings Up to Date: Regularly update job listings to ensure they reflect current openings.
Optimize for SEO: Use relevant keywords in job titles and descriptions to improve visibility on search engines.
- Mobile Responsiveness: Ensure the job board is mobile-friendly, as many candidates use mobile devices for job searches.
- Engage with Your Candidates: Use automated responses to acknowledge application receipt and keep candidates informed throughout the selection process.
Here is the list of five such plugins [in no particular order]
- WP Job Manager: A lightweight job listing plugin for adding job-board-like functionality to your WordPress site. Being shortcode-based, it is easy to set up and customize.
- Simple Job Board: As the name suggests, this is a simplistic and easy-to-use WordPress job board plugin that enables you to create a job board and manage the job offers via WordPress.
- Job Board by BestWebSoft: An easy-to-use plugin that helps you create and manage job postings. It offers features such as resume submission and a searchable and filterable job listing.
- Apply Online: This plugin allows you to create a job board or a registration form for courses and classes. It is suitable for managing applications for different posts or opportunities.
- WP Job Openings: A powerful plugin designed with simplicity and flexibility in mind. It provides a feature-rich platform for job listing and application management, complete with a CV database.
WP Job Opening plugins offer small businesses a powerful tool to rival larger companies in the race for top talent. By creating an in-house CV bank and managing job applications directly through their WordPress website, businesses can save on recruitment costs, maintain control over the hiring process, and engage with candidates on a personal level. With the right plugin and approach, small businesses can not only fill their current vacancies efficiently but also cultivate a reservoir of talent for their future needs.
by Mahbub Zaman Ashrafi | Nov 4, 2023 | HR Articles, Recent
Recruitment and selection are two crucial processes that every organization needs to master in order to find and hire the best talent for their open positions. However, these processes are not always easy or straightforward. There are many challenges and pitfalls that can affect the quality and efficiency of recruitment and selection, such as:
- Finding enough qualified candidates in a competitive market
- Avoiding bias and discrimination in screening and interviewing candidates
- Evaluating candidates’ skills, fit and potential objectively and consistently
- Making timely and informed hiring decisions that align with the organization’s goals and culture
To overcome these challenges and optimize the recruitment and selection processes, it is important to follow some best practices that can help you attract, assess and select the most suitable candidates for your roles. Here are some of the best practices that you can implement in your recruitment and selection processes:
Define your corporate brand: Your corporate brand is the image and reputation that you have in the market as an employer. It reflects your values, vision, mission, culture and work environment. A strong corporate brand can help you attract more candidates who are interested in working for you and who share your goals and beliefs. To define your corporate brand, you need to communicate clearly what makes your organization unique, what benefits and opportunities you offer to your employees, how diverse and inclusive your workforce is, and how you support social causes and communities.
Treat candidates as customers: Candidates are not just applicants who want a job from you. They are also potential customers who can influence your sales, reputation and referrals. Therefore, you need to treat them with respect, professionalism and courtesy throughout the recruitment and selection process. This means that you should:
- Provide clear and accurate information about the role, the organization and the application process
- Respond to candidates’ inquiries and feedback promptly and politely
- Respect candidates’ time and availability by scheduling interviews and assessments at convenient times
- Offer candidates a positive and engaging experience during interviews and assessments
- Provide candidates with constructive feedback and updates on their status
- Thank them for their interest and participation.
Use social media in a targeted way: Social media is a powerful tool that can help you reach out to a large and diverse pool of candidates. However, not all social media platforms are equally effective for recruitment purposes. You need to use social media in a targeted way, by choosing the platforms that are most relevant for your industry, role and audience. For example, if you are looking for professionals with specific skills or qualifications, you might want to use LinkedIn or Twitter. If you are looking for creative or artistic talent, you might want to use Instagram or Pinterest. If you are looking for young or casual workers, you might want to use Facebook or Snapchat. You also need to create engaging and informative content that showcases your corporate brand, your job openings, your employee stories, your achievements and your social impact.
Have effective shortlisting, interviewing and assessment skills: Shortlisting, interviewing and assessing candidates are key steps in the selection process that determine the quality of your hiring decisions. You need to have effective skills in these areas to ensure that you identify the best candidates for your roles. This means that you should:
Use objective criteria and methods to screen candidates based on their qualifications, experience and fit. Avoid bias and discrimination in screening candidates based on their personal characteristics or preferences. Conduct structured interviews that focus on behavioral, situational and competency-based questions. Use valid and reliable tests and assessments that measure candidates’ skills, abilities, personality and potential. Evaluate candidates’ performance using standardized scoring systems and rubrics
Involve multiple stakeholders in the selection process: The selection process should not be a solo activity that is done by one person or department. It should be a collaborative activity that involves multiple stakeholders who have different perspectives, insights and opinions on the candidates. These stakeholders can include:
- Hiring managers who have direct responsibility for the role
- Team members who will work closely with the new hire
- HR professionals who have expertise in recruitment and selection
- External consultants or experts who can provide independent advice or feedback
By involving multiple stakeholders in the selection process, you can increase the validity, reliability and fairness of your hiring decisions. You can also improve the acceptance and integration of the new hire into the organization.
Select the successful candidate based on multiple factors: The final step in the selection process is to select the successful candidate who will receive the job offer. This decision should not be based on a single factor or impression, but on multiple factors that reflect the candidate’s suitability for the role. These factors can include:
- The candidate’s qualifications, experience and skills
- The candidate’s fit with the organization’s culture, values and goals
- The candidate’s potential for growth, development and performance
- The candidate’s motivation, enthusiasm and interest in the role
- The candidate’s expectations, preferences and availability
By selecting the successful candidate based on multiple factors, you can ensure that you hire the best person for the role, who will contribute to the organization’s success and satisfaction.
Recruitment and selection are two vital processes that can make or break your organization’s performance and reputation. By following these best practices, you can optimize your recruitment and selection processes and find and hire the best talent for your roles.
