It is important to rank applicants, since many positions have multiple qualified candidates. There are several ways to do this, including ranking them numerically and having multiple people review materials.

As you develop an applicant selection process, consider the following:

1. Determine the criteria for the specific position (be sure to get these directly from the position description). What skills are necessary? What skills can be taught and which ones should the candidate already possess?
2. Consider how the candidate meets the established criteria for the position at each phase of the screening process.
3. When screening applicants, use all available information at your disposal: their application, interview, e-mail, phone and mail communications, and references.
4. Examine evaluation criteria and assign each a value to aid in making a decision.

You'll also want to develop a list of required documents needed from chosen applicants.

The following tools can be customized to fit your program:

• Placement Requirements is a set of recommendations to help staff place members
• Placement Offers Checklist is a list of steps to be completed by staff before an offer is made
• Award Letter is a sample letter to send to a selected candidate
• Offer and Acceptance Letter is sample formal position offer letter
• Rejection Letter offers a polite way to say "No thanks"
• Member Contract is a contract used to formalize the service requirements in one AmeriCorps program

Go back to Screen and Place New Members