HR1Onboarding

Submitted by major on Mon, 09/27/2021 - 12:20

Coordinate recruitment  and onboarding

Sub Topics

LEARN MORE

Example of the title for the link or 
article to read for more information:

https://www.xyz.com.au

Learning Activities

A range of different learning activities are provided 
throughout this Learner Guide. You may be required 
to conduct your own research, interpret information, 

practice something in your own time or reflect on 

your own experiences and opinions on a topic. 
You may be asked to provide other students with 
feedback. It is suggested that you take time to write 
down your responses to the learning activities. 

At the end of each chapter you will find a series 

of review questions which will help to assess your 
knowledge of the content from that chapter before 
you move onto the next. 

QR Codes

https://scnv.io/65488

   

QR codes and Watch boxes are used throughout 
to aid in your streamlined use of this Learner Guide. 

To use the QR codes, download a QR reader on your 
smart device from the app store on your device. 

Simply scan the QR code by using the camera 
on your device. The media will be shown on your 
device. If it is a Watch box it will be a video on 
YouTube. Other media may include a website, 
or PDF or so on. 

Further Reading

 appears throughout, to 

provide additional information on a topic.

Using this Learner Guide

Using this Learner Guide

Look for the following throughout this Learner Guide

Icons and Information Boxes

You will find the following icons and call out boxes 

throughout this Learner Guide. 

THINK

Encouraging you to think about a topic  
or idea further. 

CASE STUDY

A scenario that puts the content into its practical application and a real life situation. The situation doesn't necessarily have to be based on a real example, but the case study will help you bring life to the content. 

EXAMPLE

An example that helps you put the content  into context. 

NOTE 

A tip or useful information that may be particularly important to remember.  

WEBSITE

A link to a website that provides additional  useful information. 

WATCH

A link to a video to watch online with  
the duration eg 

https://scnv.io/abcde

KEY POINTS

Key points to remember.

READ

Additional reading such as a link to a PDF or 
relevant website, research article, legislation. 

RESOURCE  

A useful resource that you may wish to  
save for your future reference such as a 
template or guide. 

 

 

BSBHRM415 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

1. Planning for Recruitment 

By the end of this chapter, you will understand: 

3 Establishing recruitment requirements 

3 Consulting with stakeholders about job 
descriptions, selection criteria and workforce 
strategy 

3 The contribution to development of job descriptions

3 Sourcing candidates according to  organisational policies and procedures.

In this chapter, we will establish recruitment requirements and consult with 
stakeholders in relation to job descriptions, selection criteria and workforce 
strategy. We will examine the development of job descriptions and source 
candidates according to organisational policies and procedures.

 

Recruitment is simply the process of identifying a role 
vacancy and attracting, interviewing, selecting, hiring 
and onboarding the right person for that particular role 
within the organisation. Most organisations undertake 
set processes to clearly identify and establish the 

skills, knowledge and qualifications that are required 

for the vacancy, along with when, where and how the 
recruitment should be undertaken. 

The recruitment process aims to find and engage the 

most suitable candidate for a job vacancy. The process 
should be undertaken in a timely and cost-effective 
manner. It is a process of searching for prospective 
employees and providing them with relevant information 
about the organisation, its mission and vision and 
encouraging them to apply for jobs at the organisation.

The key principles in recruitment and selection are 
where the organisation endorses and promotes open, 
transparent and merit-based recruitment principles. 
This also includes its associated policies, procedures, 
guidelines and documentation, relates to engaging in the 
recruitment and selection process with an open mind, 
assessing applicants on their merits and not acting to 
undermine the process.

An equitable process will ensure that the merits of each 
application will be recognised, acknowledged and given 
appropriate value, given that people bring different 

talents and strengths to their applications based on 
different life experiences and values. Most organisations 
will have a process that is used to initiate recruitment 

and selection, and this may include an authority to fill 

a position that may be a form that is completed and 
forwarded to the manager or delegate for approval. 
The form may include details of the vacancy, an 
attached position description and possible suggested 
advertisements. Once the form has been checked 
and approved by the manager or delegate, the form is 
usually then sent to the human resources department to 
commence the recruitment and selection process.

 

 

 

BSBHRM415 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

Planning a recruitment process is imperative for ensuring that there is consistency when it comes to recruiting and 
onboarding across an organisation. Steps in the recruitment process are as follows: 

STEP 1: IDENTIFY A GENUINE VACANCY

•  Create an employment checklist that outlines the vacancy title, competency requirements, relevant award or 

agreement, roles to be undertaken and who the position will be reporting to 

• Confirm the need for this job to be filled

•  Construct a job description 

STEP 3: CONDUCT A JOB ANALYSIS

•  Look at the major areas of responsibility of the role

•  Identify the main tasks involved in these areas of responsibility

•  Identify and determine the major requirements of the role

•  Determine the relative importance of these requirements

•  Establish the requirements for a person to successfully perform the role’s duties

STEP 5: SOURCE CANDIDATES

•  Source candidates according to the organisations advertising and recruitment policies and procedures

STEP 2: OBTAIN THE AUTHORITY TO RECRUIT

•  Ensure that the authority to recruit is obtained from senior management

•  Ensure that the recruitment process includes a whole of business view

•  Obtain authority from a designated authority if necessary

STEP 4: WRITE OR REVIEW THE POSITION DESCRIPTION

•  Conduct a review of the current position description

• Conduct an analysis of the job you want to fill

•  Consider if the nature of the job has changed

•  Describe the main tasks, duties and responsibilities of the job

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

1. Planning for Recruitment 

Website

Read the following article in relation 

to the definition of 

‘recruitment:’

https://scnv.io/EOXH

Website

Read the following information on 

the approval for filling 

a vacancy:

https://scnv.io/VVz9

Website

Read the following article in relation to hiring staff:

https://scnv.io/NQHY

•  External stakeholders such as employer 

organisations, industry peak bodies and 
associations, recruitment agencies and 
workplace relations specialists

•  Internal stakeholders such as colleagues, 

human resource managers, human resource 

officers, senior management, supervisors and 

team leaders

Establish Recruitment 
Requirements  

Explain the process that is used to establish the 
recruitment process in your organisation.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

1.2 Stakeholders and 

Workforce Strategy 

It is important to ensure that consultation occurs 
with the relevant stakeholders when developing job 
descriptions, key selection criteria and the organisations 
workforce strategy. The workforce strategy includes 
planning for the future requirements of the workforce 
that is aligned to the strategic plan and overall 
direction of the organisation. The stakeholders can 
provide valuable insight on the workforce needs of 
the organisation now and in the future. Stakeholders 

may also be able to provide specific details about the 

role and the required selection criteria for the position. 
The job or position descriptions tend to be written in 
conjunction with staff involved directly with that role or 
position and the manager who is responsible for that 
particular role. 

The relevant stakeholders may include:

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

The relevant stakeholders can provide specific details 

about the job or position that can be included in the 
descriptions. Usually, the job or position descriptions 
are written in conjunction with the manager who is 
responsible for managing that particular role and other 
staff that are involved directly with that role or position. 
It is imperative that consultation with the relevant 
stakeholders is conducted for valuable input into the 
job descriptions and selection criteria, and also to 
gain any necessary approvals for changes. The job or 
position descriptions will often have an authority at the 
bottom that is usually approved and signed by the direct 
manager.

Website

Read the following information on 
the stakeholders that 
should be engaged 

when developing job descriptions:

https://scnv.io/EiAI

Website

Read the following article on 
stakeholder 
consultation:

https://scnv.io/tKUS

Consulting with Stakeholders  

Describe the various stakeholders that you need 
to consult with about job descriptions, selection 
criteria and the organisations workforce strategy.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Activity

 

1B

Job or position descriptions:

•  Are an essential document to be used as a basis for 

recruitment, appraisals and salary negotiation

•  State what an employee must accomplish and the 

position they hold

•  Contain a detailed analysis of the position’s tasks

•  Should include the following:

•  Job title

•  Objective and purpose

•  List of duties or tasks

•  Relationships with other roles

•  Job location

•  Salary range

Think

Think about roles that you held in 
the past or roles you have applied 
for. Were the job descriptions 

similar? Did they outline competency requirements 
and the tasks required to be performed? 

Watch

Job Descriptions and 

Specifications Watch this YouTube 

video by GreggU called Job 
Descriptions and 

Specifications to learn more 

about job descriptions:

https://scnv.io/qX4b

Website

Read the following article that 
outlines the purpose 
of a job description:

https://scnv.io/fuD6

 

BSBHRM415 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

1. Planning for Recruitment 

1.3 Job Descriptions

The purpose of a job description or position description 
is to provide a statement that clearly outlines and 
describes the position or role and documents the 
responsibilities of the position. It should include the 
purpose of the role, which is often referred to as the 
job purpose, position purpose or position objective. 
The job description outlines the conditions of the role 
or job and its competency requirements, including the 
tasks required to be performed by the role, job holder 
or incumbent and a description of how they must be 
performed. A job or position description will usually also 
outline any licences that are required to perform the 
duties. 

You can contribute to the development of the job 
description by ensuring that it has the required input 

from the hiring manager and reflects the requirements of 

the role. A well written and clear job description is used 
as the foundation for recruiting, selecting, onboarding 
and developing the individual. It is also used as a 
benchmark for managing performance. The position 
description may include any required mandatory 

qualifications to be able to perform the duties of the role. 
This may include any tertiary qualifications such as a 

degree, masters or doctorate (PhD).

 

CBSA is a consultancy company. Details from their business plan are  as follows:

Target market:

 Small, medium and enterprise size 

organisations.

Marketing strategy:

 Broad strategies of electronic, 

event-based and traditional advertising.

Tag line:

 “Your business expert”

CBSA is expanding its training department and 
a vacancy has arisen for a training administrator. 

The training manager has identified that key 

administration tasks need to be undertaken within 
various client training projects and has noted that 
the current administration staff cannot perform at 
the level required. The training manager, training 

co-ordinator, human resources officer and the lead 

trainer will be working directly with the training 
administrator. This small team will decide the tasks, 
skills and knowledge required for the position 
and work together to establish the job or position 
description.

Recruitment Requirements  

Find three examples of job descriptions in your 
organisation. Review the job descriptions to ensure 
that they have consistent information that can be 
used to support sourcing, selecting and appointing 
suitable staff.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Sourcing Candidates

Sourcing potential candidates for a vacancy is often 
the next part of the recruitment process once the 

job description has been written and the need to fill 
a vacancy has been identified and approved. The 

various strategies that are to be implemented to assist 
in sourcing candidates should be done in accordance 
to organisational policies and procedures. These may 
include:

•  Recruitment policy and procedure

•  Advertising policy and procedure

•  Interviewing policy and procedure

•  Selection policy and procedure

The introduction of a range of software programs 
and the expansion and use of the internet has led 

to an increase in efficiency and effectiveness of 

organisational processes regarding recruitment. The 
recruitment process itself has evolved and changed 

to reflect the needs of the organisation and to meet 

the everchanging needs of the environment in which 
businesses operate. The various organisational policies 
and procedures will usually outline the preferred process 
of sourcing candidates, and this may include the use of 
various technology that is available to source suitable 
candidates. This may include:

•  Software such as an online system to search online 

applications and look for specific criteria

•  Online interview applications to record the candidate 

and watch and review videos at a later time and date

•  Social media applications such as LinkedIn to match 

potential candidates

There are several common methods of attracting 
candidates that include:

•  Clear advertisements about the role and showcasing 

your organisation

•  Outlining career development and professional 

development opportunities

•  Using internal referral systems as sometimes your 

own staff may know of someone who may be the 
ideal candidate 

•  Using recruitment agencies especially for specialist 

roles as they have access to potential candidates

 

 

 

•  Using any professional organisations or bodies to 

advertise the position

•  Having a stall or stand at a career expo (if you are 

part of a large organisation) to showcase the various 
positions that you have

• Offering flexible working arrangements such as an 

opportunity to work from home (if the position allows)

•  Highlighting any monetary incentives that the 

organisation may have such as discounts to products 
or services

•  Using social media to recruit

 

LEGISLATION MAY INCLUDE:

•  Local, state and territory work health and safety 

(WHS) legislation

•  State, territory and federal workplace legislation 

relating to organisational recruitment processes 
(e.g. Fair Work Act 2009, anti-discrimination 
legislation, Privacy Act 1988)

CODES OF PRACTICE MAY INCLUDE:

•  Non-prescribed voluntary codes

•  Organisational codes

•  Prescribed mandatory industry codes

REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS MAY RELATE TO:

•  Awards and agreements

•  Diversity and inclusion

•  Fair Work Regulations 2009

In each stage of the vacancy advertising and recruitment 
process, it is vital to adhere to relevant legislation, 
standards, regulations and awards. These legislative 
and compliance requirements must be considered at 
every part of recruiting for a vacancy, including writing 
and advertising a vacancy, interviewing applicants, 
conducting referee checks and the selection of a 
candidate. You need to become familiar with the 
legislative requirements to ensure that the recruitment 
policy and procedures meet Australian law, standards, 
regulations and various legislative requirements that are 
applicable to the organisation.  

When sourcing candidates, it is imperative that 
relevant legislation is adhered to, and this is especially 
important when developing the position description and 
advertisement. There are different relevant legislation, 
regulations, standards and codes of practice that 
may affect an employment agency and organisation’s 
recruiting processes. This may include the following:

The following are principles you should be aware of 
when advertising vacancies:

• There must be a real vacancy to fill

•  The job advertisement must not be discriminatory

•  The advertisement should be realistic and honest

•  Promises that cannot be kept should not be made

•  The advertisement should include a copy of the job 

description or the details of a person that applicants 
can contact for further information

 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

1. Planning for Recruitment 

In addition to the principles above, you must also ensure 
that the advertising of vacant positions complies with 
relevant legislation. The Australian anti-discrimination 
legislation, for example, includes the following acts:

•  Age Discrimination Act 2004 

•  Disability Discrimination Act 1992

•  Racial Discrimination Act 1975

•  Sex Discrimination Act 1984

•  Australian Human Rights Commission Act 1986

The various relevant legislation, regulations, standards 
and codes of practice may vary according to industry.

 

Example

ABC buses have been granted a 
contract to provide bus services 
across 15% of the Melbourne 
metropolitan area. The company must adhere to various additional legislation for 
their industry that includes bus safety legislation 
in Victoria that is made up of several acts and 

regulations including:Bus Safety Act 2009 (Vic)https://scnv.io/HYWWBus Safety Regulations 2020 (Vic)https://scnv.io/c1zWTransport (Safety Schemes 

Compliance and Enforcement) Act 


2014 (Vic)https://scnv.io/RF8UHeavy Vehicle National Law Application Act 2013 (Vic)https://scnv.io/W1O0WatchWatch the following YouTube video 
called Technology for Recruiting by 
GreggU:https://scnv.io/6ze003:30WebsiteRead the following article on 
sourcing candidates:https://scnv.io/juXaWebsiteRead the following article on 
sourcing candidates:https://scnv.io/12XmSourcing Candidates  Describe the various policies and procedures that 
must be adhered to in your organisation when 
sourcing candidates.

 

Explain how you would coordinate the recruitment 
of two candidates across your organisation.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

Use the following questions to check your knowledge.

Review 

Questions

Chapter 1

15

BSBHRM415 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

1. Planning for Recruitment 

 

15

CHCLEG001 

Work legally and ethically

1. Working Within Legal Requirements

 

Q1.

   Using three examples, explain pieces of legislation 

that must be adhered to when sourcing candidates.

Q2.

   Describe the purpose of a position or job 

description.

Q3.

   Explain why is important to include a description of 

the tasks and responsibilities in a job description.

Q4. 

  Describe different types of technology that is 

available to source suitable candidates. 

Q5. 

  Explain why you would need to consult with 

stakeholders in relation to job descriptions.

In this chapter, we will examine different types of screening used to organise 
and conduct interviews. We will carry out a skills assessment and examine the 
additional information that may be required from candidates.

 

By the end of this chapter, you will understand: 

 

3 How to conduct preliminary screening with 
candidates 

 

3 Ways to organise and conduct interviews and 
selection activities 

 

3 How to carry out skills assessment and 
obtain relevant additional information from 
candidates.

 

2.1 Conduct Preliminary 

Screening

Preliminary screening processes and questions are 
designed to determine if the candidate is a suitable and 

qualified applicant. Preliminary screening can be done at 

the beginning of the recruitment process when sourcing 
for a potential candidate. This can be undertaken 
when the candidate is submitting an application for 
the vacancy using an external careers/employment 
platform or through an internal organisational careers 
system. Some larger organisations will use software and 
applicant tracking systems that are able to conduct the 

first round of pre-screening. This is achieved through 

sorting job applications via a software program that is 
able to determine whether the words on a resume match 
the requirements and key word of the job vacancy.

Various questions that can be posed at the preliminary 
screening point are used to determine if the candidate is 
suitable for the role.  

The preliminary screening questions may include:

•  Do you have the right to work in Australia?

• Do you have more than five years’ experience 
in this field?

• Do you have the required qualifications to 

undertake the role?

•  Do you have the required licences required for the role?

•  Do you have or are you willing to undertake a 

police check and other relevant checks?

•  What are your salary expectations?

A preliminary screening interview may also be 
conducted over the phone, recorded and uploaded onto 
the organisation career system or via a video meeting. 
The preliminary screening assists the organisation to 
determine if the candidate moves to the next round of 
the recruitment process and whether they will be asked 
to attend an interview in person or through a video 
interview.

Website

Read the following article on pre-
screening interviews:

https://scnv.io/TGUO

Website

Read the following article on 
screening interviews:

https://scnv.io/pXRC

Watch

Watch the following video on 
screening: 'Selection Screening'

https://scnv.io/2fc3

Activity

Preliminary Screening  

Using selection criteria found in a job description, 
develop four preliminary screening questions that 
can be used to determine if a candidate is suitable 
for the vacancy.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Conducting Interviews and 

Selection Activities

The process of organising and conducting interviews 
and selection activities are usually 

outlined in various organisational policies and 
procedures. These may include recruitment, 

interviews and selection policies and procedures. 
Organising the interviews may include:

 

•  Developing interview questions aligned 

with the job description and selection criteria 
and ensuring that they include open ended 
questions

•  Organising a suitable location for the interview  that allows for privacy 

•  Using an internal booking system or HR system

• Phoning the candidate to confirm time, date 

and location of the interview

• Emailing the candidate to confirm time, date  and location of the interview

•  Organising the required selection activities in 

accordance with organisational requirements

•  Organise any skills assessments required

An interview panel may be required for certain roles 

and this will be in line with any specific organisational 

requirements. The manager or coordinator usually has 
the responsibility for the appointment and the selection 
panel. The selection panel must receive the appropriate 
training in recruitment and selection processes including 
any interviewing techniques and behavioural interview 

questions and any other specific requirements. 

When determining the composition of the selection 
panel, consideration must be given to any potential 

conflict of interest that might exist. Where such a conflict 

occurs, the manager or coordinator must contact 

human resources to discuss how the conflict should be 

managed or, where practicable, avoided. The selection 
panel should include a manager or coordinator from the 
department where the vacancy has arisen. The panel 
usually consists of three members, including:

•  The immediate manager or coordinator (who will 

generally be the chairperson of the panel)

•  Another appropriate person from the work unit

•  One other person nominated by the chairperson of 

the panel

•  The panel should also contain a balance of genders

 

When conducting the interview, it is important to start by welcoming the candidate and outlining the interview 
process. Ensure that active listening and communication skills are used during the interview. The interview process 
may include: 

•  Asking questions, listening to the responses and take notes

• Asking clarification questions if required

•  Allowing time for the candidate to respond to the questions

•  Obtaining any further information from the candidate

At the conclusion of the interview, thank the candidate and outline the next steps of the process including any other 
skills assessments that may be required. After the interview, check the answers provided against selection criteria 
and write a report. Provide the report to the relevant stakeholders and make a selection. After the interview, review the 
process and ensure that any suggestions or changes are discussed with the stakeholders. 

The process for organising and conducting interviews and selection activities can be summarised in the following 
diagram:

 

 

 

 

Just like the preliminary screening process, there are 
a number of common interview techniques. The most 
commonly used interview is conducted in person and 
face-to-face. Other interview techniques include:

•  Phone interviews

•  Group interviews

•  Online live interviews conducted via Zoom, Skype or 

Microsoft Teams

•  Recorded video interviews

•  STAR interview technique: 

•  The STAR format stands for Situation, Task, Action, 

Result. 

•  Situation: An event, project or challenge faced

•  Task: Explain the task you had to complete

•  Action: Steps or procedure taken to relieve or rectify 

situation

•  Result: Close with the results of your effort

Questions that are asked during the interview may 

include generalist questions and role specific questions 

as outlined in the selection criteria of the job description.  

General questions may include:

•  What motivated you to apply for this role?

•  What do you know about our organisation?

•  What are your salary package expectations? 

•  What expertise can you bring to the role?

•  Why should we employ you over other 

candidates?

•  Why do you want to leave your current 

company?

•  What are your career goals?

Selection criteria specific examples of interview 

questions may include:

•  Describe a time when you disagreed with a team 

member. How did you resolve the problem?

•  This role requires analytical reports. Describe the 

type of analytical reports that you have previously 
written. What were some of the challenges you faced 
writing the reports?

•  You are required to report safety incidents as part of 

your role. Tell us about a time that you had problems 
with reporting an incident. What did you do?

•  Tell us about a time that you did not meet a deadline. 

What was the situation and how did you handle it?

•  How do you approach problems and issues? What 

was the process that you used?

•  Provide an example of where you have worked in 

a small team. How did you contribute to the team 
goals?

Regardless of the role, the questions must be clear to 
the candidate and be aligned to the selection criteria 
and the scope of the role to assist with the process of 
selecting the right candidate for the vacancy.

Example

For area manager roles, Aldi stores 
conduct an online preliminary 
interview, and if the candidate 

is successful, they are invited to attend an online 
video interview. The candidate is provided with 
a link and a series of questions are asked (in 
text) that the candidate must respond to and the 
answers are recorded and uploaded onto the Aldi 
recruitment system. 

Website

Read the following information on 
arranging and conducting interviews:

https://scnv.io/lAKF

Website

Read the following information 
regarding conducting 
interviews:

https://scnv.io/By2Z

 

Information

Skills assessments can vary depending on the role, 
and in some cases, they may be a formal process that 

is aligned to licensing and qualification requirements. 

There are different authorities that can undertake 
formal skills assessment such as those that recognise  

qualifications and skills obtained from another country. 

Competency based assessments are used to determine 

competency levels usually associated with qualifications 
including various certificate levels and up to advanced 

diplomas as part of the vocation education and training 
system.

The process of carrying out skills assessments usually 
requires the applicants to provide various types of 

evidence such as qualifications, courses attended and 

licenses that are required for the occupation along 
with any relevant work experience. Some of the skills 
assessments may require a completed portfolio, report 
submission or registration with other authorities such as 
trades.  

Examples of these types of skills assessments include:

• Electrical assessments

: to become a 

registered electrician

• Building assessments:

 to become a registered 

builder

• Plumbing assessments

: to become a 

registered plumber, roof plumber or gas 
plumber 

Skills assessments and relevant work experience can 
also be used to align the knowledge and skills with 

formal qualifications and also to determine any training 

requirements. 

In addition to carrying out skills assessments, further 
relevant information may be required from the potential 
candidate. This may include the names of recent 

supervisors or managers as referees, verified copies 
of formal qualifications, medical information, evidence 

of ongoing professional development and training, 
vaccination information, police checks and working with 
children checks.

 

Other types of skills assessments may include:

• Psychometric testing is used to assess specific 

duties, tasks and soft skills that may include the 
ability to work in a team, leadership and management 
skills and problem solving and analytical skills

•  Personality testing to determine personality or 

character that can build teams to be able to work 
together effectively

•  Management and leadership assessments are used 

to determine the type of management style and 
leadership capabilities of the candidate and how they 
can operate at a strategic level and work towards the 
achievement of organisational objectives

•  Learning style assessments are used to determine 

the ways that individuals learn and take in any new 
information

• Culture fit assessments are used to assess the 
candidates potential fit into the organisations culture

 

Example

A regional water board requires 
onsite maintenance staff to 
conduct audits and general 

maintenance of some of the water treatment plants. 
Given that there are a number of abattoirs within 
the region, the new staff are required to have a Q 
fever and tetanus vaccination prior to commencing 
employment. 

 

Website

Read the following information 
on formal skills assessments 
from the Australian 
government:

https://scnv.io/nZ69

Skills Assessments  

Describe the skills assessments that you may be 
required to carry out in your organisation.

 

Review Questions

Use the following aquestions to check your knowledge 

Q1. Describe the purpose of screening processes.

Q2. Explain when and how the screening process can 

be undertaken.

Q3. Describe where the process for organising and 

conducting interviews and selection activities may 
be found in an organisation.

Q4. Using two examples, explain the type of information 

candidates may need to provide as part of a skills 
assessment. 

Q5. Describe the further relevant information that may 

be required from a potential candidate.

 

 

 

 

 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

3. Assess and Select Candidates 

By the end of this chapter,  you will understand: 

 

3 How to conduct the assessment and selection 
process 

3 Ways to assess candidates against specified 

selection criteria and referee reports

 

3 How to prepare recommendations.

In this chapter, we will examine the how to conduct assessments and carry out 
the selection process according to organisational requirements. We will examine 
ways to assess the candidate against selection criteria and how to conduct referee 
checks. We will examine how to prepare recommendations for appointments to the 
relevant stakeholders.

 

Conduct Assessments and the Selection Process

In order to select the preferred candidate, the 
organisation’s recruitment and selection process must 
be adhered to and be in line with the required legislative 
requirements. There are many ways of selecting the 
right candidate based on the job or position description. 
Some organisations use a weighting system by which 
to score each of the task requirements against the 
candidate response questions in an interview. Other 
organisations use situational analysis questions to 
determine how the candidate responds to a certain 
scenario or situation. 

Prior to an interview, or once a shortlist of candidates 
has been chosen, organisations may also use other 
skills assessment such as psychometric and skills 
testing programs for recruitment. Often, these tests 
use measurable, objective data that gives details of an 

applicant’s skills and suitability for a position, including 
their potential cultural fit and behaviour requirements.

Another key part of conducting assessments prior to 
selecting a candidate is to conduct an identity check. 
It is imperative to have policies and procedures that 
can help keep inappropriate people from working at 
the organisation. As part of the recruitment process, we 

must be able to ensure that we employ the right person 
for the role within the organisation. 

Consistent messages about rigorous identity, referee 
and probity checks should be undertaken to deter 
individuals that may have a history of inappropriate 
behaviour or criminal offences. An identity check 

is defined as a process by which the identity of an 
individual is verified to ensure that they are who they 

claim they are. 

The verification of the candidate’s identity underpins all 
other verification and is fundamental to understanding 

the candidate’s background and may be used to 
undergo working with children checks and police 
checks.

Identity verification is a necessary process that ensures 

a person’s identity matches the information that has 
been provided by the applicant.

The identity verification process should be able to 
ensure that there is a real person behind the application 

for a role and should be able to prove that they are the 
one that they are claiming to be.  

An explanation of the types of rigorous identity checks 
should be described in all aspects and documents as 
part of the recruitment process.

 

An example of a checklist for the recruitment process to confirm the identity of an individual is provided below:

RECURITMENT PROCESS IDENTITY CHECKLIST

QUESTIONS

ANSWER YES/NO

Does the recruitment process verify the applicant’s identity?

Does the identity check ensure they are who they say they are? For example, 
conduct a 100-point check?

Does the identity check request original documents? 

Does the identity check have a process for identifying and verifying name 
changes? For example, marriage, divorce or by the births, death and marriages 
name change registration process?

Does the identity check include viewing the applicant’s passport or drivers 
licence to check that the name is the same?

Does the identity check include conducting internet searches to verify the 
identity of the applicant?

Does the identity check include a process of checking social media accounts?

Checking Social Media

Checking social media accounts and conducting 
internet searches are widely used by human resources 

practitioners and managers to assist with the verification 

of an individual’s identity.  Many employers use search 
engines and social media to discover information about 
applicants and may use social media information from 
sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

You must be mindful that there may be potential 
discrimination issues involved in conducting searches 
and not to be biased but use the information and data to 

confirm the identity of the applicant. The searches may 
provide additional confirmation that the individual is who 

they say they are, and other information obtained can be 

used to evaluate their character, personality, values and 
suitability for the role at the organisation.

In some cases, social media accounts and internet 

searches may provide the verification of potential 

reasons not to engage the applicant due to their 
disturbing behaviours, comments, posts and 
photographs that have been uncovered as a result of the 
searches that have been undertaken.

The searches may demonstrate various unethical 
behaviours that the individual has demonstrated such as 
any allegations against the individual or pending court 
proceedings that were not uncovered during a police 
check at that point of time.

 

3. Assess and Select Candidates 

Case study

A local community organisation 
undertook a police check on 
an applicant. The applicant 
only provided two of the four 

documents that were required to conduct a 
background check. Numerous follow-ups were 
conducted with the candidate to obtain copies 

of their identification after the verification through 
the Document Verification Service (DVS) failed. A 

staff member conducted various social media and 
internet searches and discovered that there were 
several different spellings of the applicants name 
being used. The staff member also discovered 
disturbing new paper articles in relation to alleged 
fraudulent activities with a local community group.

After several weeks, the applicant finally provided 
sufficient information to confirm their identity via 
the DVS, which also confirmed an adjustment 

in the spelling of their name. Once this name 
adjustment was discovered, the result of the 
background check revealed a lengthy criminal 
record that included a prison term for fraud 
whilst working at a bank. This case reveals the 

crucial part that ID verification plays in a police 

check when following up on applicants who 
avoid providing the information needed to run the 
required check. It also highlights how social media 

and internet searches can assist in the verification 

of an applicant’s identity.

Website

Read the following article on 
conducting social media checks:

https://scnv.io/GCzg

Website

Read the following article on working 
with children checks:

https://scnv.io/mPOG

Watch

Watch the following YouTube 
video by GreggU called Selection 
Screening:

https://scnv.io/jFf5

04:29

Conduct Assessments and the 
Selection Process  

Describe the purpose of conducting social media 
and online identity checks.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

 

 

 

 

28

BSBHRM415 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

3.2 Candidates, Selection 

Criteria and Referee Reports

The assessment and short-listing process involves 
determining the applicants that meet the selection 
criteria and who are able to perform the various tasks 
and meet the requirements of the role. Screening and 
assessing the candidates intake form in a ranking 
process to determine which of the candidates may 
progress to the next stage of the selection process and 
be short-listed. At the short-listing stage, candidates 
have met certain criteria as part of the assessment 
process. This has been achieved through ascertaining 
if the candidates meet the initial relevant criteria and 
allows the recruiter to reduce the candidate applications. 

Candidates should be provided with clear instructions 
on how to address the selection criteria and this should 
include information on how the applications must be 
able to verify the information that is provided. This, along 
with a scoring procedure, can then be used to evaluate 
whether candidates have met the selection criteria.

Conducting reference checks can be one of the most 
important steps in the selection process. Often the past 
performance of an applicant can be the best indicator of 
future performance. Speaking to past direct supervisors 
or managers will assist to determine if the applicant 
being considered is suited for the role. It can provide 

you with confirmation that the applicant has the required 

skills and experience in working in the role, as they have 
directly observed the applicant perform in their previous 
role.

By speaking directly to a previous supervisor, you 
can obtain valuable information and insight about 
the applicant’s job performance, their strengths and 
weaknesses, their interaction with customers, suppliers 
and other staff. It can help to identify any misleading 
information that was provided in the covering letter, 
resume or during an interview such as an exaggeration 
or incorrect length of employment or the responsibility 
the applicant had in their previous role.

It is recommended that at least two referees are 
contacted to provide insight into the applicant’s 
character and skills. Line managers, particularly the 
applicant’s most recent employers, are likely to provide 
you with the most accurate information. 

Reference checking allows you to ensure that you are 

finding the most qualified person for the position. It is 

important that during the interview process you obtain 
consent from the applicant to contact their references 
and ask employment-related questions. Be sure that you 
tell the applicant that you wish to speak to the people 
who supervised them in their previous roles and that it 
must be work-related referees. 

An example of an assessment and selection process is 
demonstrated in the diagram below:

 

 

 

Organisations have different processes that they use to assess candidates against specified selection criteria and 
referee reports. It is important to know the relevant procedures and consult with and confirm these with the relevant 

stakeholders.

An example of an interview scoring record is listed below:

SELECTION CRITERIA

RATING

5

4

3

2

1

Educational Background: Does the candidate have the appropriate educational 

qualifications or training for this position?

Comments:

 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Work Experience: Does the candidate have the relevant work experience?

Comments: 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Criteria 1: Significant experience in the successful implementation of strategic and 
operational plans which have achieved specific objectives of the organisation. 

Comments: 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Criteria 2: Experience in the oversight of contemporary human resources and cultural 
change management programs designed to maximise organisational effectiveness.

Comments: 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Criteria 3: Exceptional customer service. 

Comments: 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Scoring

Candidate evaluation forms are to be completed by the interviewer to rank the candidate's overall qualifications for 

the position to which they have applied. Under each heading, the interviewer should give the candidate a numerical 

rating and write specific job-related comments in the space provided. The numerical rating system is based on the 

following:

5: Exceptional      4: Above Average      3: Average      2: Below Average      1: Unsatisfactory  

Candidate Name:  ____________________    Position: ______________________

Interviewer Name: ____________________    Date:       ______________________

3. Assess and Select Candidates 

 

 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

Website

Read the following information in 
relation to selection 
criteria assessment:

https://scnv.io/ks8X

Website

Read the following article on 
selection processes:

https://scnv.io/0dwo

Assess Candidates  

Using two examples, explain different selection 
procedures and techniques.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Activity

 

Prepare Recommendations

When making recommendations for a preferred 
candidate, the decisions must be clearly documented 
and demonstrate and outline how the candidate has 
met the selection criteria as well as achieved any other 
required assessments. A recommendation report 
must explain the basis on which an interview panel 
has made the decision to recommend a candidate. 
The recommendations that are to be prepared for the 
relevant stakeholders should be documented according 
to organisational procedures and provide details that 
may include:

•  The abilities of the candidate

•  The skills of the candidate

• 

Qualifications

•  Knowledge

•  Experience that is relevant to the role

The report may include a table summary of the short-

listed and final candidates that made it through the last 

part of the screening and interviewing process. This 
includes a summary report or table of the comparison 
of other short-listed applicants with the successful 
applicant as noted above. A summary report example is 
provided below:

Educational 

Background

Work 

Experience

Criteria 1

Criteria 2

Criteria 3

Total Proceed 

Yes/No

Candidate 1

4/5

5/5

4/5

5/5

4/5

22/25 Yes

Candidate 2

2/5

3/5

4/5

2/5

4/5

15/25 No

Candidate 3

3/5

3/5

3/5

3/5

2/5

14/25 No

Candidate 4

3/5

2/5

3/5

2/5

3/5

13/25 No

3. Assess and Select Candidates 

 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

The recommendation report should provide the detailed information for the relevant hiring manager to make an 
informed decision. 

An example of a recommendation report is provided below:

Recommendation and selection report

Vacancy details

Insert relevant vacancy details.

Vacancy candidate pool

Insert detailed information about the candidates such as the number of candidate applications and 
the number of candidates that were short-listed.

Assessment strategies

List all assessment strategies that were used such as screening processes, short-listing processes, 
assessments and interviews. Attach any relevant selection panel documentation from each selection 
strategy.

Pre-employment checks

List all pre-employment checks undertaken, including referee reports such as police history checks, 

qualification checks and licenses.

Assessment and referees

Name

Insert name of referee.

Overview

Overview of the applicant’s skills and experience relevant to 
the role.

Assessment

Summary of referee report.

Recommendation

 Provide a summary of why the candidate is suitable for 
appointment. Include all selection techniques that includes any pre-
employment.

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

Website

Read the following information on 
selection reports 
from the Tasmanian 
government:

https://scnv.io/imUO

Website

An example of a selection report 
can be found on the 
following link:

https://scnv.io/sY7Q

Website

An example of a selection report 
can be found on the 
following link:

https://scnv.io/utUE

 

Activity 3C

Prepare Recommendations  

Describe the types of documents or reports 
that you are required to prepare for the 
recommendations of a preferred candidate.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Review Questions

Q1.

 Describe some of the ways that you can select a 

candidate.

Q2.

  Describe the other types of assessment that can be 

used when selecting a candidate to be short-listed 
or interviewed.

Q3.

  Explain why you would conduct an identity check of 

a candidate.

Q4. 

  Using two examples, explain what the assessment 

and short-listing process involves. 

Q5. 

 Explain why you should conduct referee checks.

Use the following aquestions to check your knowledge.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In this chapter, we will examine ways to inform candidates of selection decisions. 
We will examine various processes of providing feedback to internal and external 
candidates.

We will examine the various necessary documentation that needs to be organised 
and completed in accordance with organisational policies and procedures.

 

By the end of this chapter, 

you will understand: 

3 How to inform candidates of selection 
decisions and provide feedback 

3 The process to secure preferred candidate’s 
agreements and coordinate necessary 
documentation.

 

 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

Selection Decisions and  Providing Feedback 

Each organisation may have a different process for 
advising applicants of the selection outcome and 
this may include those that have been chosen for 
short-listing and those whose applications will not be 
progressed further. Unsuccessful applicants need to 

be notified and you must ensure that the message sent 

is positive and objective. This may be done through 
advising in person or via phone or email. 

It is important to clearly explain why you are not 
progressing further with the candidates and show the 
candidates that you appreciate the time and effort 
they took to apply for the role. If an applicant was not 
interviewed and requests feedback, the hiring manager 
or chairperson of the interview panel should advise them 
that all decisions made have been based on merit and 
that applicants have been interviewed who most closely 
matched the selection criteria.

If the interviewer(s) or selection panel is requested to 
provide feedback to internal and external applicants who 
were not successful in obtaining the role, again, it is to 
be reiterated that all decisions have been based on merit 
and that the applicant who most closely matches the 
selection criteria was successful in obtaining the role.

In particular, the following should be avoided:

• Discussing specific reasons why any person 

was unsuccessful. Advise only that short-listed 

applicants better satisfied the selection criteria

•  Providing information received during the 

reference check

•  Debating issues with the applicant

•  Referring to any personal, irrelevant or unlawful criteria

 

Coordinate recruitment and onboarding

If the internal applicant is from the department which 
the vacant position has been advertised, the hiring 
manager or chairperson of the panel should meet with 
the unsuccessful internal applicant(s) to discuss with the 
employee their career aspirations and expectations. This 
may include the provision of relevant information and 
advice on any available training and development that is 
available to the unsuccessful employee.

Many large organisations, including the public service, 
have appeal processes for existing employees. If an 
existing employee (including casuals) was interviewed 
but unsuccessful, the chairperson of the selection 
panel usually advises the employee of the decision as 
soon as possible. The chairperson should also notify 
human resources as current employees have a set 

period of time (two–five days) from the time they were 
notified that their application was unsuccessful to lodge 

a submission. This submission is usually lodged with 
the human resources department and a review of the 
recruitment process is undertaken.

Any additional feedback for the unsuccessful internal 
employee, the hiring manager or chairperson of the 
interview panel should discuss with the employee 
their career aspirations and expectations, offering 
career advice and information. Where the unsuccessful 
applicant is an employee in the department where 
the vacancy exists, ensure that the performance 

appraisal process for the employee identifies the skill 

development and training needed to enhance their 
career opportunities. Additionally, develop a strategy 
to assist the employee to enhance their job and career-
related skills and experience, i.e., job rotations or training 
in resume and interview techniques.

Website

Read the following information 
on giving feedback for advising 
applicants on the 
selection outcome:

https://scnv.io/TxvV

Website

Read the following information on 
processes for advising applicants 
on the selection 
outcome:

https://scnv.io/tehO

Watch

Watch the following YouTube video 
by Work It Daily called The Right 
Way To Tell Candidates They Didn’t 
Get The Job – 
RecruitHUB:

https://scnv.io/Dcyq

07:50

 

Activity

Selection Decisions and 
Providing Feedback   

Explain what you need to consider when advising 
applicants of the selection outcome.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

 

 

 

Before a new employee takes up their position, there 
is some documentation that should be organised. 
When coordinating the necessary documentation, 

ensure that you observe and follow confidentiality and 
privacy requirements. The proceedings of the interview 

panel, including all documents and correspondence 
considered by the hiring manager or interview panel, 

are confidential and for the information of interviewer(s) 

and panel members only. These matters remain 

confidential even after the results of the hiring manager, 

interviewer(s) or panel’s recommendation are made 
known. Information should be securely stored and must 

ensure that the confidentiality requirements, as per the 

Privacy Act and relevant organisation privacy policies 
and procedures, are adhered to.

When securing the candidates agreement, the 
successful candidate should receive a letter of 
appointment and a contract of employment. 

A letter of appointment should:

•  Welcome the new employee

•  Reiterate the position title, conditions of 

employment and salary

•  Outline the hours and days to be worked 

•  State the starting time and date

•  Name the staff member who will act as contact 

person on the first day of employment

•  Outline whether the position will be a contract 

and state the time period of the contract

•  Outline if the position is permanent employment 

and ongoing

•  Outline the time frames and details of 

any probationary period

•  Outline all employee entitlements such as 

superannuation, leave and the relevant state or 
federal award or enterprise agreement

Other documentation that is usually required includes:

•  Contract of employment

• Confirmation letter

•  An employment declaration form from the Australian 

Taxation Office

•  An employee information sheet that includes 

emergency contact details and banking details 

•  A section for the candidate’s signed acceptance

•  Fair work statement 

•  Superannuation form – choice of superannuation 

fund form

Contracts of Employment

A contract of employment may incorporate a workplace policy. Workplace policies may take the form of guidelines 
or general directions to employees such as a staff handbook and may include other documents in the contract of 
employment, such as those listed in the diagram below:

Website

Read the following information 
on new starters 
documentation and 
information:

https://scnv.io/aCm7  

Website

Read this article to learn more about 
employment contracts:

https://scnv.io/4hCN

LEARN MORE

For further information on 

confidentiality and the Privacy Act 

check out the following link:

https://scnv.io/m5z8

Activity

Candidate Agreements and 
Necessary Documentation   

Using two examples, explain the necessary 
documentation you need to consider when a new 
employee takes up a position.

 

Review Questions

Use the following aquestions to check your knowledge. 

Q1.

  Describe the feedback that should be avoided if the 

interviewer(s) or selection panel is requested to 
provide feedback to internal and external applicants 
who were not successful in obtaining the role.

Q2.

  Using two examples, explain the type of feedback 

that may be given to an internal unsuccessful 
candidate.

Q3.

   Explain what should be included in a letter of 

appointment/offer to the successful candidate.

Q4. 

  Explain why you need to consider privacy when 

coordinating documentation. 

Q5. 

 Using three examples, explain other information and 

workplace policies that may be included in an 
employment contract.

Q6. 

 Describe where you can obtain further information 

on privacy requirements and legislation.

 

 

 

 

 

In this chapter, we will examine the required administration tasks and arrangements 
that will be required for the commencement of employment of a new employee 
including pay and employee record keeping.

We will also examine the various tasks that are required to coordinate the various 
aspects of the onboarding processes. 

 

By the end of this chapter, you will understand: 

 

3 Ways to advise stakeholders of new 
appointments and make necessary 
administrative arrangements

 

3 How to coordinate successful candidate’s 
onboarding according to organisational 
policies and procedures.

 

Advise Stakeholders of 

New Appointment 

Prior to the commencement of a new employee, the 
relevant manager, supervisor or stakeholder must be 
informed of the of new appointment, including the start 
date and be provided with the relevant onboarding and 
induction information and associated documentation. 

Administrative arrangements included in the onboarding 
process and program may include various activities and 
required documentation that needs to occur prior to a 
new employee starting work, such as:

•  Ensuring that all payroll information has been 

received and processed including tax file 

declarations, superannuation choice of fund details 
and deductions requests such as union fees or extra 
tax

•  Ensuring that all human resources documentation 

(policies and procedures) has been handed out

•  Scheduling all necessary training in policies and 

procedures prior to commencement

•  Organising and providing information of aspects of 

working at the organisation, such as:

•  Useable car parks 

•  Personal belongings storage

•  Security and access arrangements

•  Computer arrangements 

•  Amenities (e.g., toilets, tea rooms) locations

•  The replenishment of personal stationery, 

office supplies, equipment, tools, etc. 

•  Administrative assistance

•  A schedule of where and when to meet the 

manager on the first day 

•  Scheduling on site induction, emergency 

and evacuation procedures

• Organising site specific online inductions (if 

required)

•  Organising any medicals (if required)

•  Organising police checks and working with 

children checks (if required)

 

Think

Think about the onboarding 
process. What would make an ideal 
onboarding process for a new team 
member?  

Watch

Watch this short YouTube video 
titled 5 tips for training new 
employees 2019 | New hire training 
tips 2019 by The 

Human Resources Tips:

https://scnv.io/4b7L

Website

Read the following article on the 
successful onboarding and training 
of new staff:

https://scnv.io/7OnK

03:20

Activity

Administrative Arrangements   

Explain the personnel and payroll information 
that needs to be organised prior to a new employee 
starting the role.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

 

Candidate Onboarding

 

Onboarding aims to provide the required support and 
training that allows the new employee to become 
familiar with their roles and responsibilities in the 
organisation. The onboarding process can last over a 
set period of time, and checklists are recommended to 
ensure that the required information has been covered.

Consistent onboarding processes should be followed 

Onboarding/Induction Timeline

What Occurs

First week

•  A meeting is held to discuss the induction program, aims and goals, 

expectations, and policies and procedures

•  Relevant meetings and training sessions are booked
•  A check is conducted to ensure that the new employee is added to 

the email system

• 

An outline of where records and files are kept is provided to the new 

employee

First month

•  A meeting is arranged to ensure that all planned induction activities 

have occurred or are continuing

•  A check is conducted to see if other mentoring is required

First three months

•  A meeting is arranged to discuss the performance plan objectives, 

development or management

•  Feedback is obtained from the new employee on the induction process
•  Upcoming milestones or goals are discussed

across an organisation and managers should be 
provided with the required training in onboarding 
process and standard tools and checklists to ensure 
consistency. An onboarding/induction schedule should 
be developed to complement any onboarding or 
induction checklists that are used. The time frames 
for onboarding will vary depending on the position 
and organisational complexities and requirements. An 
example of an induction/onboarding time framework is 
outlined in the table below:

An induction/onboarding time framework may also be 
aligned to an employee probation period. 

A probation is a set period of time that allows both an 
employer and an employee to assess each other and 
the position. If, for any reason, it is deemed that the 
employee is not suited to the position or the business (or 
vice versa), either the employer or employee can end the 
employment within the probationary period. 

Probationary periods can vary in organisations and 
can last from a few weeks up to 12 months and is 
conducted alongside the onboarding process. It also 
includes the provision of feedback to the new employee 
on progress. Documentation that should be provided 
as part of the onboarding and probation periods usually 
include the clearly set out role expectations and any key 
performance indicators for the staff member to achieve.  
Regular meetings are scheduled with the new staff 
member and clear and achievable goals are set for the 
position. Probationary periods apply to both part-time 
and full-time workers.

Most organisations will use an onboarding or induction 
checklists as part of the onboarding process to 
document the various activities required as part of 
onboarding.

 

Here is an example of an onboarding checklist adapted from a template created by Southern Cross University:

Induction Checklist

This checklist is to be initiated and tailored to the department and the employee's requirements. It should be 
completed by the employee's supervisor. 

Employee's name: …………...…………...…………...…………...…………...…………...…………...…. 

Proposed start date: …………...…………...   Department or work area: …………...…………...…… 

INDUCTION TASK

PERSON 

RESPONSIBLE

INITIALS & DATE OF 

COMPLETION

PRIOR TO COMMENCEMENT

       Confirmation of offer acceptance

       Confirm with HR Services:

                Online onboarding

                Offline onboarding

       Phone extension organised: 

       ……………………………

       Work space and desk organised

       Computer/laptop and IT access arrange

       Other: 

       Casual employees: 

       Signed copy of contract sent to HR

DAY ONE OF COMMENCEMENT

       WHS induction checklist completed and sent to HR services

If applicable: 

       Confidentiality agreement signed  

       Working with Children clearance (or state or territory
       equivalent) acquired 

       IT access and systems:

                Computer setup and network access provided

                Access and training arranged for required systems

       Security and access:

                Photo ID         Key and building access         Telephone directory 

       Facilities and services:

                Mail arrangements        Location of toilets         Stores and 

                stationery        Other facilities

       Employment information discussed:

                Code of conduct

                Emergency contacts and procedures

                Specific WHS requirements completed if required

 

Website

Read more about probation on the 
Fair Work website at 
the following link:

https://scnv.io/EdhN

Website

Read the following:

9 Steps to a Better 
Onboarding Program

https://scnv.io/GUkc

 

Activity

Describe your organisation’s onboarding 
processes.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Review Questions

 Use the following aquestions to check your knowledge.

Q1.

   Using three examples, explain the various aspects 

of working at the organisation that may need to be 
organised prior to the commencement of a new 
employee.

Q2.

   Describe the administrative activities and required 

documentation that needs to occur in your 
organisation prior to a new employee starting work.

Q3.

   Explain the aims of onboarding processes and 

procedures.

Q4. 

  Describe some of the tasks or actions that could be 

undertaken in the first week of the onboarding and 

induction process. 

Q5. 

  Using four examples, explain some the tasks or 

actions that could be included in an onboarding 
and induction checklist.

 

 

 

Australia. Attorney-General’s Department. (n.d.).  Privacy

.https://www.ag.gov.au/rights-and-protections/privacy 

 

Australia. Australian Human Rights Commission. (2015). 

A quick guide to Australian discrimination laws

https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/employers/quick-
guide-australian-discrimination-laws

Australia. Australian Human Rights Commission. (n.d.).  Job Advertisements

https://humanrights.gov.au/quick-guide/12055 

Australia. Department of Health. (2019). Selection  process

 https://www.health.gov.au/about-us/work-with-us/selection-process 

Australia. Fair Work Ombudsman. (n.d.). Employment contracts

https://www.fairwork.gov.au/awards-and-

agreements/employment-contracts 

Australia. Fair Work Ombudsman. (n.d.). National employment standards

https://www.fairwork.gov.

au/employee-entitlements/national-employment-
standards 

Australia. Fair Work Ombudsman. (n.d.). Probation

https://www.fairwork.gov.au/employee-entitlements/
types-of-employees/probation 

Bell. S. (2012, February 15). The importance of 

communicating HR policies and procedures. iHR Australia.

https://content.ihraustralia.com/blog/

the-importance-of-communicating-hr-policies-and-
procedures   

Benz, M. (2019). How to ask for feedback: 

The ultimate guide to relevant feedback Busines 2 Community. 

https://www.business2community.com/communications/how-to-ask-for-feedback-the-ultimate-guide-to-relevant-feedback-02164582 

 

Bruno, B. (2020). High-tech high-touch recruiting: How to attract and retain the best talent by improving the candidate experience (1st ed.). Kogan Page.

Advanced diploma of leadership and management(2019). Australian Pacific College.

 https://files.transtutors.com/cdn/uploadassignments/2867188_1_employee-relations-2-workbook-v1.9.pdf

Ceplenski, C. (2013, November 4). What is the purpose of a job description HR Daily Advisor. 

https://hrdailyadvisor.blr.com/2013/11/04/what-is-the-purpose-of-a-job-description/ 

Deutsch, M. (2016, November 7). The 10 Most Critical 

Recruitment Process Steps. Top Echelon. 

https://www.topechelon.com/blog/placement-process/10-critical-recruitment-process-steps/ 

5 ways to create an employee on-boarding process 

everyone will Love 

(2017). Natural HR. 

https://www.naturalhr.com/2017/02/23/5-ways-create-employee-boarding-process-everyone-will-love/

Forbes Coaches Council. (2018, August 10). 

10 ways artificial intelligence will change recruitment practices. Forbes. 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoaches

council/2018/08/10/10-ways-artificial-intelligence-will-change-recruitment-practices/?sh=49de22123a2c 

Garbarino, C. (2019, September 5). The complete guide to successful onboarding and training. LivePlan

https://www.liveplan.com/blog/the-complete-guide-to-successful-onboarding-and-training/

 

Gasior, M. (2017, December 26). Why it is important 

to review policies and procedures: How regularly 
reviewing policies and procedures is a key part of 
your organization's success. 

PowerDMS

 https://www.powerdms.com/blog/why-it-is-important-to-review-policies-and-procedures/ 

Gregg Learning. (2018, August 4). Technology for Recruiting

 [Video]. YouTube. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXuZwLLFJVo 

Gregg Learning. (2019, January 15). What is human resource strategy

YouTube.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Yd3QJvrFa0 

HR services: Induction checklist template(n.d.). Southern Cross University. 

https://www.scu.edu.au/media/scueduau/staff/hr-services/documents-amp-forms/Induction-checklist-template.docx 

The Human Resources Tips. (2019, August 5). 5 tips for training new employees 2019 : New hire training tips 

YouTube. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MDWwq1vNJo 

Kenton, W. (2020). Succession planning. Investopedia

https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/succession-planning.asp 

Kurter, H. L. (2018, December 3). 1 0 simple ways to improve onboarding for increased retention Forbes.

 https://www.forbes.com/sites/heidilynnekurter/2018/12/03/10-simple-ways-to-improve-onboarding-for-increased-retention/?sh=2d1d14b14b35

New South Wales. Public Service Commission. (n.d.). A 

brief guide: Providing good feedback to unsuccessful interviewed job applicants

https://www.vep.veterans.nsw.gov.au/assets/veterans-employment-program/PSC-Guide-to-giving-good-feedback-1-1.pdf 

Next Generation Recruitment. (2016, March 30).  How the world of work is changing

YouTube.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYPxrzHJhF8 

9 Steps to a Better Onboarding Program (2018).  People Fluent. 

https://www.peoplefluent.com/blog/recruitment/9-steps-to-a-better-onboarding-program/  

Quinn, E. (2016). How the world of work is changing. 

Next Generation

https://www.nextgeneration.ie/blog/2016/04/how-the-world-of-work-is-changing 

Recruitment: Hiring Success Glossary

 (n.d.). 

SmartRecruiters. 

https://www.smartrecruiters.com/resources/glossary/recruitment/ 

Ripley, D. (1995). How to determine future work-force 

needs. Personnel Journey, 74, 83-89. 

https://www.workforce.com/news/how-to-determine-future-work-force-needs 

Stein, M. & Christiansen, L. (2010). 

Successful 

onboarding strategies to unlock hidden value within 
your organization

. McGraw-Hill Education.

Victoria. Business Victoria. (n.d.). 

Workforce planning 

and HR templates: Human resource planning made 
easy with a workforce action plan

 https://www.business.vic.gov.au/hiring-and-managing-staff/staff-recruitment/workforce-planning-and-HR-templates

Williams, A. (n.d.). 10 ways HR tech has changed 

recruiting forever. 

Undercover Recruiter

https://theundercoverrecruiter.com/social-recruiting-technology-changed-recruiting/

Module Linking