Why job applicants may not be shortlisted for interview

The shortlist is a list of application forms that have met the essential and desired criteria for the job as set out in the job specification. These application forms may have also met any enhanced criteria that the employer has asked to be included.

The shortlist is made up of application forms, usually about 3-10 of them, that the employer deems as suitable for the job and so those applicants are called to interview to discuss their application form further.

However, sometimes applicants may not be shortlisted for interview for the following reasons:

The applicant may not have completed the application form to a satisfactory standard and thus may have spoiled their chances of being shortlisted.

The applicant may not have the desired qualifications for the job and therefore will be ruled out.

References from the referees may not be satisfactory and therefore the applicant may be found to be unsuitable for the post.

The application form may have arrived to the employer after the stated deadline and therefore it was not considered for shortlisting.

If there has been a large number of applicants, the employer may enhance the original criteria and therefore the applicant may be ruled out.

QUESTIONS YOU COULD BE ASKED:

Explain two reasons why a job applicant may not be placed on a shortlist for an interview. (4marks)

A job applicant may not be shortlisted if their application form was submitted after the deadline. Employers usually do not consider late applications, no matter how qualified the person is. (2marks)

If the applicant does not have the required qualifications for the job, they are unlikely to be shortlisted. Employers need to ensure that candidates meet the essential criteria before offering an interview. (2marks)

Analyse why job applicants may not be placed on a shortlist to attend an interview (6 marks)

If a job applicant submits their form after the closing date, the employer may not consider it. Employers often stick strictly to deadlines to keep the process fair and organised. (2marks)

If an applicant’s references are poor or raise concerns about their past performance or behaviour, the employer may decide they are not a good fit for the role. Good references are important for building trust in a candidate’s reliability and professionalism.(2marks)

When there is a high number of applicants, employers may raise the standard of the selection criteria. This means that even qualified candidates might be rejected if others have stronger experience or more relevant skills. (2marks)

You should also read:

How to write a successful Job Application form

How to write a successful CV and covering letter