Make a decision
Review all the information you have gathered to make an informed and unbiased decision on who is the best applicant for the job.
Checklist
- Read The Merit Selection Guide, page 13.
Questions
What information should I consider when making the assessment?
All information relevant to the selection criteria should be considered in the final decision.
What if I don't have enough information to make a decision?
A panel can repeat or expand the assessment phase to gather the information required to make a decision. As an example, this may include a second interview, recontacting referees or even contacting additional referees.
What if I do not agree with the other panel members?
If the panel cannot reach agreement the following are some of the options available:
- The member who disagrees writes a minority report, which is attached to the selection report.
- The panel can provide all the information collected to the CEO or delegate for a decision.
- The panel can decide to collect further information from the applicants to assist in reaching a unanimous decision.
The CEO or delegate may direct the panel to reconvene to come to a unanimous decision, accept one of the reports or disband the panel and recommence the process.
Who makes the final decision?
The CEO or delegate makes the final decision. The panel's role is to recommend to the CEO the best person for the job.
Because the selection panel is not the final decision-maker, it is inappropriate for any member of the selection panel to disclose information to candidates or to other staff members prior to the decision.
The leaking of information prior to the final decision may result in the lodgement of an appeal. Selection recommendations must be treated confidentially.