12 Step Hiring Process

Make sure your civil service or hiring rules are up before you begin the hiring process. If needed amend or rewrite as necessary.

1. Advertise/Public Notice
2. Applications (Review)
3. Background Check
4. Certified List of Three
5. Eligibility List
6. Hiring
7. Job Descriptions/Essential Functions of the Job (Review)
8. Oral Exam (Weighted Score)
9. Physical Agility (Pass Fail)
10. Probation
11. Written Test (Weighted Score)

Oral Exam (Summary Points)

• Ask all Candidates the Same Questions
• Because of the Subjectively of an Oral Exam Before Failing a Candidate- Be Prepared to Substantiate Why
• Be Prepared (3 Ps – Plan, Prepare, Practice)
• Have Criteria to Be Judged for Each Question
• Have Questions and Expected Responses Written Out in Front of You
• Know Why You Are Asking a Question
• Same Examiners for all Candidates
• This is not an Interview - It Is an Oral Exam
• Yes and No Questions May Be Ok but Situation Questions Are Better

FIVE COMMON MISTAKES WHEN CONDUTING ORAL EXAMS

1.  Talking too much. (You are not the applicant)

2.  Failing to prepare (Preparation is the key to a professional Oral Exam Process)

3.  Asking questions off the cuff. (Stick to the prepared questions and don't wonder off)

4.  Not knowing your legal limits - (Know what questions not to ask)

5.  Being blinded by personal preferences.  (You are not the Applicant)