GMAT Essays (AWA)

According to the author, rather that using the traditional question-and-answer interviews to evaluate job candidates, employers should observe candidates as the perform some of the job's actual tasks. Yet this could be a more elaborate and time consuming process. But nevertheless I strongly agree with the author. I have substantial reasons to support my position.

A few include:

Firstly, the employer gets to access the candidate based on his or her performance on the job. This helps the employer in not only accessing a candidate's expertise, but also in understanding areas of improvement. This could be identified and incorporated in the training needs of the prospective candidate. This is best highlighted in the corporate world where many organizations offer 6-8 week internship to the candidates. Only through on the job performance will the correct candidate be offered a job.

Secondly, the corporate world can take a lesson out of parliamentary democracy. Most leaders start their political career in grass root politics and civic bodies. Based on their performance when they stand for elections, the electorate decides if the candidate had done a good job and is worthy of new elevated position. This is akin to a candidate applying for a job and having to demonstrate how good or bad he or she might be.

Thirdly, it also helps in helping the candidate access what the expectations of his future employer would be. In all fairness, this is a process in which the candidate also gets to better understand his new employer and judge if the offered job is the right one.

Additionally, it helps to strike a balance with existing employees as well. If the prospective candidate is asked to perform some the tasks which existing employees already do it helps bring an air of openness in the organization. It goes to show and demonstrate that competence is what is seen in a new recruit.

Thus, I completely agree with the author that the traditional question-and-answer interviews can be limiting and more often than not does not fully help in judging a candidate. Instead as suggested, by allowing the candidate to perform some actual tasks it will help in better understanding the abilities of the candidate and do a fair assessment.