THE PHYSCHOLOGY OF WORK AND ORGANISATIONS

  Write yours answers to the following: 1.Define each of the following interview methods: structured interviews, semi-structured interviews and unstructured interviews. 2.Outline the strengths and weaknesses of each of the three interview methods. Define the following cognitive biases that can occur during an interview: 1. Halo/horns 2. Primacy/recency effect 3. Stereotypes 4. Attribution Bias 5. Like me effect Case Study 1: Cognitive Bias As a new manager, Sue is involved in the selection process for a Data Input Clerk. This position needs someone who is IT literate, organised, detailorientated and dependable. After short-listing from CVs, Sue interviews two applicants: Joe is 22 and a recent graduate from the same university as Sue. On his CV, he lists hockey as one of his hobbies, which is a game Sue has played since secondary school. He arrives early for the interview and is neatly dressed in a suit and tie. Jeremy is 24 and used to work with one of Sue’s friends who has told her he was a bit of a joker at work. He arrives only just on time for the interview and apologises for his slightly dishevelled appearance, saying that his car broke down this morning and he had to rush around looking for a taxi. After the interviews are completed, Sue recommends that Joe is offered the position. Ø How many biases might Sue have been subject to in making this decision? Ø What recommendations would you make to an organisation to try and ensure that these biases were reduced in future interviews? Write down your answers to the questions: 1. What is the difference between behavioural and situational interviews? 2. Define maximum performance and typical performance psychometrics. 3. Provide an example of how biographical data can be used to predict job performance. 4. How can psychology contribute to fairness in measurements? Case Study 2: Fairness in Selection Methods Joe is the CEO of a large insurance company. When he first took over the position two years ago, there was a lot of upheaval in the top management and he appointed a new Finance and HR Director, both of whom were women. He was pleased with their performance and received good feedback from their departments. However, within the last six months, both new directors have gone on maternity leave and one has given notice that she will not be returning to work. Joe is now involved in the selection process for a new Finance Director. Ø If you were in Joe’s position, how would you feel? Ø Do you think it would be fair of Joe to ask potential female candidates if they intended to have a baby in the next few years? Ø What do you think the impact of this experience will be on the selection efforts of this organisation?