Methods for selecting applicants

Online test (also called online assessment center test):

An online test is used to pre-select which applicants will move on to the next round of selection. An online test is usually standardized and the evaluation is done via computer.

Depending on the industry, career level, and position, the following areas are tested:

  • Knowledge specific to the position
  • General knowledge
  • Personality
  • Logical thinking
  • Performance and concentration

Interview: phone, in person, video

The telephone interview precedes the actual interview and is an initial opportunity for applicants and the company to get to know each other. Typically, ideas, expectations, and requirements for the position are discussed and compared. The telephone interview lasts approximately 15 to 30 minutes. Do not let the caller surprise you. Make an appointment for the telephone interview.

The classic job interview is an in-person meeting between the applicant and one or more company representatives. In addition to professional qualifications, the focus is also on the applicants' personal skills and the extent to which they fit into the existing team. In the case of an entry-level job, technical tasks can also be integrated into the interview, e.g. a presentation on a specific topic or the completion of a case study. The duration varies between 60 and 90 minutes.

In contrast to the classic job interview, the video interview does not take place on site, but via video conferencing systems (e.g., Zoom, Skype, MS Teams, etc.). The preparation and procedure are similar to the in-person interview. You should familiarize yourself with the technology in advance.

With a time-shifted video interview, you are only given a time period in which to conduct the video interview. The video interview consists of 3 - 5 questions in text form, and you will receive a set preparation and answer time for each question. The video is recorded via your webcam. The time-shifted video interview, like the online test and telephone interview, is used for pre-selection and lasts approximately 15 minutes.


Assessment center

An assessment center (AC) is a selection method consisting of various tasks and exercises. The aim is to identify the suitable applicant by means of an individual or group AC who best fits the job and the company in terms of professional and personal qualities. Tools in an AC can be

  • Self-presentation
  • Interview
  • Competence test
  • Group discussion
  • Case studies

The applicants are evaluated by observers. The number of invited applicants and the duration of the AC depend on the size of the company and the position to be filled (between 2 and up to 20 applicants, duration between one and three days). 

A digital assessment center takes place via a video platform. There are now various assessment systems that support the process of an AC and also allow the common AC tools to be carried out digitally. The duration is between 4 and max. 8 hours.

This is what a multi-stage selection process can look like:
  1. Pre-selection: Matching the application documents with the job profile
  2. Online test (logical thinking, professional knowledge, personality)
  3. Telephone interview: Initial meeting and matching of applicant expectations and job requirements
  4. Interview 1: Self-presentation, questions about professional and personal skills, fit between applicant and company
  5. Interview 2: Motivation and development potential of the applicant, general conditions of the position (salary negotiation)

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Individual advising appointment:
Arrange an advising appointment with us online (via job teaser “Beratungstermine”) or by email: career@uni-hohenheim.de

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