Review Applications Schedule and Conduct Interviews Check References, Make Selection and Return Certificate

The Review Applications, Schedule and Conduct Interviews, Check References, Make Selection and Return Certificate element is performed by the manager. This element takes 15 days to complete. During this time period, the manager reviews the applications of eligible candidates on the certificate, schedules and conducts interviews, and signs and returns the certificate.

First, the manager reviews applications of eligible candidates on the certificate issued by the Human Resources Office. When doing this, the manager determines the best eligible candidate for the position based on a review of the applications/resumes and all appropriate documents.

Next the manager schedules and conducts interviews. When scheduling and conducting interviews the manager needs to remember to:

• Determine and follow agency policy on interviewing eligibles;
• Schedule and conduct interviews either by the selecting official or panel;
• Develop interview questions specific to the position;
• Train individuals, including a supervisor or manager, if a structured interview is being conducted as part of the assessment process;
• Identify the best candidate(s) for the position based on the interview process; and
• Check the applicant's references, verify current and/or previous employment, conduct reference checks of current and/or previous supervisors, and conduct personal reference checks of individuals identified by the candidate.

For more information about conducting interviews, check out OPM's Structured Interviews: A Practical Guide.

Finally, the manager must identify the selected individual for the position and sign and return certificate.

OPM Steps: 15
OPM Total Days: 52