subject: An Environment Of Case Interview Procedures For Employment [print this page] In tough times when employers have multiples of job applications for one position they may consider identifying the best employee with the case interview technique. For applicants it's a "think fast" process unlike the slow production of a resume. Potential employers, one or more people sit with their ticking clocks awaiting a properly analyzed reply. They'd like to know how, or perhaps why you chose the reply. There's no time to fake your chosen reaction.
For example: You've recently submitted an application to manage the dining room of a long term assisted living complex. You researched the institution. The call arrives to set an interview time. You arrive early, and escorted to a windowless boardroom. Coming through the door you see 6 bosses or directors in a row down the far side of a table. On the closer side, an empty chair.
You'd like to sit down but each person introduces themselves. Twice you offer your hand to shake, without response. The third person extends his arm, stretching awkwardly across the table, making both of you embarrassed. Number four nods, five blurts her name bluntly, six gives a faint wave. You wonder who will lead the department.
One person begins announcing the features of the resume and confirming facts. "You have a BA with a Business major." Yes. "You help out with the local hockey team." Yes. You find yourself almost nervously spacing out, wonder why six people are there to give resume echoes. But then the woman in the center, maybe the big boss, says, "We like to propose some situations that could happen in our facility. Both of us will understand the job potential together." You smile and nod.
On a February 14 a big event is planned but the small heart shaped cakes, one for each plate arrive late and the driver has an invoice that is drastically more than the quote, what will you do, and why."
"I can't send them back, you say, "everyone will be so disappointed." Of course the budget must be mentioned, that's a surefire answers for points. "The bakery would need to be contacted for communication, the driver consulted about address or correct order delivery. They nod.
"OK. Thank-you, " she says. Your smile says that question was easy. "Now, perhaps one day at dinner a gentleman in the dining room begins to yell at one of our servers that the food is unacceptable. Of course everyone is eating. How would you help this man?"
How interesting, you think, an hysterical customer. Yes, certainly the resident would be offered another option from the kitchen and the server thanked for her patient efforts.
"OK, that sound's appropriate. But what action would you take if all the excitement caused this man, with a history of heart problems, to go into cardiac arrest?"
You remember that your resuscitation certificate (CPR) has long ago expired. You think about Valentine cake late deliveries, and residents who don't like the food or might die in the dining room. Perhaps some re-thinking is due. You stand up from your chair. "Thank you so much for your time ladies and gentlemen, I have reconsidered, perhaps this job does not suit me. Sometimes a case interview can assist the employer but also the applicant.
