HR Final

The purpose of the wage curve is to ________. A) show the relationship between the value of the job and the current average pay rates B) equate jobs of similar difficulty or importance as established by job evaluation C) choose benchmark jobs within each pay grade D) cluster jobs into logical groupings

A) show the relationship between the value of the job and the current average pay rates

Retaining employees is a ________ issue and the best retention strategies are therefore multifunctional. A) talent management B) career management C) strategic management D) human resources management

A) talent management

11) During the job analysis process, it is important to ________ before collecting data about specific job duties and working conditions. A) test job questionnaires on a small group of workers B) confirm the job activity list with employees C) select a sample of similar jobs to analyze D) assemble the job specifications list

C) select a sample of similar jobs to analyze

1) What is the first step in the basic planning process? A) evaluating the possible alternatives B) implementing a course of action C) setting an objective D) comparing options

C) setting an objective

The on-the-job method of ________ involves give lower-level executives firsthand experience in working on actual problems. A) coaching B) informal learning C) special assignments D) programmed learning

C) special assignments

17) Which of the following is the primary disadvantage of using questionnaires to gather job analysis information? A) Questionnaires are the most expensive method of collecting data. B) Supervisors are required to verify all collected questionnaire data. C) Questionnaires are too open-ended for statistical information. D) Developing and testing questionnaires is time-consuming.

D) Developing and testing questionnaires is time-consuming.

________ is reducing, usually dramatically, the number of people employed by a firm. A) Career development B) Coaching C) Transfer D) Downsizing

D) Downsizing

All of the following are guidelines for conducting an effective interview EXCEPT ________. A) taking brief notes during the interview B) scheduling a private room for the interview C) showing courtesy and friendliness towards the candidate D) asking the candidate questions that require yes or no answers

D) asking the candidate questions that require yes or no answers

30) Which of the following is a primary goal of college recruiters? A) building relationships with college career centers B) cutting future recruiting costs for the firm C) developing a pool of temporary workers D) attracting good candidates

D) attracting good candidates

When conducting an appraisal interview, supervisors should do all of the following EXCEPT ________. A) ask open-ended questions B) give specific examples of poor performance C) write up an action plan with goals and dates D) compare the person's performance to that of other employees

D) compare the person's performance to that of other employees

Employers will most likely use all of the following methods to identify training needs for new employees EXCEPT ________. A) analyzing job descriptions B) reviewing performance standards C) questioning current job holders D) conducting a work sampling

D) conducting a work sampling

33) The process of cross-validating a test involves all of the following EXCEPT ________. A) using a new sample of employees B) administering additional tests C) evaluating the relationship between scores and performance D) developing and analyzing a scatter plot of scores versus performance

D) developing and analyzing a scatter plot of scores versus performance

26) All of the following are methods used by firms to develop high-potential candidates for future positions EXCEPT ________. A) providing internal training B) implementing job rotation C) offering global assignments D) developing skills inventories

D) developing skills inventories

7) Which of the following strategies identifies the broad activities that each department will pursue in order to help a business attain its competitive goals? A) competitive B) business-level C) corporate-level D) functional

D) functional

All of the following are typical activities of career coaches EXCEPT helping employees to ________. A) make 1-5 year career plans B) identify development needs C) obtain networking opportunities D) negotiate with firms for higher salaries

D) negotiate with firms for higher salaries

9) Reese Enterprises seeks to fill upper-level positions internally whenever possible and uses validated selection tests when considering external hires. This most likely suggests the company is developing a ________. A) high-performance work system B) scorecard management system C) benchmark and metric analysis D) management by objectives strategy

A) high-performance work system

When an employee's performance is so poor that a written warning is required, the warning should ________. A) identify the standards by which the employee is judged B) provide examples of employees who met the standards C) provide examples of times when the employee met the standards D) be written by a labor law attorney in accordance with federal guidelines

A) identify the standards by which the employee is judged

Which of the following statements is representative of what might be asked in a behavioral interview? A) "Consider a time when you were faced with an angry client. What did you do to turn the situation around?" B) "We are concerned with employee pilferage. As a manager here, how would you go about discouraging this behavior?" C) "Employees in this division are frequently under a great deal of pressure. How do you think you would handle the stress of the position?" D) "What would you do if a subordinate threatened to sue the company for discrimination?"

A) "Consider a time when you were faced with an angry client. What did you do to turn the situation around?"

All of the following are literacy training methods used by employers EXCEPT ________. A) providing computerized simulations B) assigning writing exercises to employees C) holding math and reading classes at work D) sending employees to adult education classes

A) providing computerized simulations

Wells Fargo and Company is a financial services firm that provides banking, insurance, and mortgage services at 10,000 stores nationwide. Wells Fargo offers its employees many professional development opportunities such as training programs and tuition reimbursement. Wells Fargo executives are considering the expansion of the firm's existing training programs after employees have expressed strong interest in the idea. Which of the following, if true, best supports the argument that Wells Fargo should use intelligent tutoring systems to provide training for loan officers? A) Current Wells Fargo employees indicate that they prefer to work at their own pace and have a variety of learning styles. B) Since Wells Fargo stores are spread throughout the country, the firm needs to provide training at a central location to a large group of current employees at once. C) Wells Fargo's employee orientation program provides new employees with information about the history, culture, and vision of the firm. D) Wells Fargo's board of directors sets training policies and works closely with HR to develop the most appropriate training programs for new employees.

A. Current Wells Fargo employees indicate that they prefer to work at their own pace and have a variety of learning styles.

23) Newton Building Supplies hopes to generate an extra $4 million in sales next year. A salesperson traditionally generates $800,000 in sales each year. Using ratio analysis, how many new salespeople should Newton hire? A) 2 B) 5 C) 10 D) 20

B) 5

2) What is the first step in the strategic management process? A) formulating a strategy B) asking, "Where are we now as a business?" C) evaluating the strategic plan D) implementing an environmental scan

B) asking, "Where are we now as a business?"

Which of the following is recommended advice for conducting an effective interview? A) Telegraph the desired answer to the candidate. B) Allow the candidate to control the interview. C) Ask the candidate for specific examples. D) Ask the candidate about work-related injuries.

C) Ask the candidate for specific examples.

Which of the following is an example of a job knowledge question? A) "What are the legal restrictions regarding the use of telemarketing for consumers who have a past relationship with a company?" B) "Suppose you were confronted with an angry customer who threatened to sue the company. What would you do?" C) "Mike and Todd have $21 between them. Mike has $20 more than Todd has. How much has Mike and how much has Todd?" D) "Can you tell me about a time in the past when you used leadership skills to handle a difficult situation?"

A) "What are the legal restrictions regarding the use of telemarketing for consumers who have a past relationship with a company?"

28) Marie Boyd has been hired by Barnum Hotels to manage staffing for the regional hotel chain. Barnum intends to open two new hotels within the next three years and will have many job positions to fill. Historically, employee turnover is high at Barnum as employees remain with the company for one or two years before quitting. Marie realizes that Barnum needs to make significant changes in its personnel strategy in order to meet the company's goals for the future and improve employee retention rates. Which of the following, if true, most likely undermines Marie's decision to fill top positions with inside candidates? A) Barnum needs to head in a different direction with innovative ideas if it is to remain competitive with other hotel chains. B) Many current Barnum employees have indicated they are loyal to the firm by rejecting offers to work at competing hotels. C) Training new employees about the practices and procedures at Barnum is costly in regards to both time and money. D) The influence of local labor unions and EEO legislation is blamed for the high turnover rate among Barnum employees.

A) Barnum needs to head in a different direction with innovative ideas if it is to remain competitive with other hotel chains.

________ is a process for enabling employees to better understand and develop their career skills and interests and to use these skills and interests most effectively within the company and afterwards. A) Career management B) Career development C) Career planning D) Performance management

A) Career management

10) MAX Computers manufactures affordable laptops and desktops at its factory in Arizona. MAX has experienced a moderate amount of financial success, but upper management wants the firm to grow at a faster rate and become a bigger player in the highly competitive computer market. The firm's greatest problems relate to its employees. Employee turnover is high—most employees at MAX leave within two years or less of being hired. In addition, the rate of productivity among employees is not as high as executives would like. The vice president of human resources is considering moving MAX towards a high-performance work system. Which of the following questions is most relevant to MAX's decision to move toward a high-performance work system? A) How would the implementation of self-managing work teams affect employee morale and work standards at MAX? B) How will qualitative performance measures address the needs of MAX employees in regards to the firm's benefits plan? C) What roles should line managers, staff managers, and HR managers at MAX play in performance appraisals? D) What economic and demographic trends in the U.S. are related to the employee turnover rate at MAX?

A) How would the implementation of self-managing work teams affect employee morale and work standards at MAX?

2) ________ focuses on helping an employee make long-term career plans, while ________ addresses an employee's short-term job skills. A) Mentoring; coaching B) Coaching; mentoring C) Recruiting; coaching D) Appraising; training

A) Mentoring; coaching

Dick's Sporting Goods is a sports and fitness retailer with over 300 stores in 34 states. After beginning as a small bait and tackle shop in 1948, Dick's has grown to become a leader in the sports and fitness retail industry. Many career opportunities are available in Dick's in areas as diverse as IT, product development, merchandising, and store management. Top management at Dick's realizes the importance of hiring and retaining quality employees. As a result, the firm has decided to implement policies, practices, and programs that support employees' career needs. Which of the following, if true, would best support the argument that Dick's should assign a coach to each new employee? A) The turnover rate of newly hired hourly employees at Dick's Sporting Goods is higher than the industry average. B) Many new employees at Dick's Sporting Goods have expressed interest in the firm's tuition reimbursement program. C) Dick's Sporting Goods has integrated preretirement counseling and succession planning into its career management practices. D) Dick's Sporting Goods uses talent management software to place new employees in the most appropriate positions.

A) The turnover rate of newly hired hourly employees at Dick's Sporting Goods is higher than the industry average.

14) The following are interviewing errors to avoid EXCEPT ________. A) asking prepared questions B) first impressions C) pressure to hire D) not clarifying what the job involves

A) asking prepared questions

Which of the following would most likely result in a legally questionable appraisal process? A) basing appraisals on subjective supervisory observations B) administering and scoring appraisals in a standardized fashion C) using job performance dimensions that are too clearly defined D) assigning specific trait names when using graphic rating scales

A) basing appraisals on subjective supervisory observations

Central basic factors that establish how several jobs compare to one another and that determine the pay for each job are called ________. A) compensable factors B) job evaluation factors C) ranking factors D) analysis factors

A) compensable factors

Which of the following is most likely NOT a role played by the HR department in the performance appraisal process? A) conducting appraisals of employees B) monitoring the appraisal system's effectiveness C) providing performance appraisal training to supervisors D) ensuring the appraisal system's compliance with EEO laws

A) conducting appraisals of employees

12) During the job analysis process, the primary purpose of having workers review and modify data collected about their current positions is to ________. A) confirm that the information is correct and complete B) provide a legal benchmark for employer lawsuits C) encourage employees to seek additional job training D) validate the job specification list provided by HR

A) confirm that the information is correct and complete

31) A reliable employment test will most likely yield ________. A) consistent scores when a person takes two alternate forms of the test B) improved scores when a person takes the same test more than once in a single day C) high scores when a person takes two alternate forms of the test on different occasions D) similar scores when two different people are administered the test at different times

A) consistent scores when a person takes two alternate forms of the test

5) The 2008 announcement by Starbucks that it would be closing approximately 600 of its stores suggests the firm was using a ________ strategy. A) consolidation B) diversification C) geographic expansion D) vertical integration

A) consolidation

Which of the following is the organization's role in an employee's career development? A) providing mentoring opportunities to support growth B) participating in career development discussions C) providing timely performance feedback D) establishing goals and career plans

A) providing mentoring opportunities to support growth

Which of the following statements is representative of what might be asked in a situational interview? A) "Tell me about a time you showed leadership in a difficult situation." B) "Suppose you were confronted with an angry customer who threatened to sue the company. What would you do?" C) "Can you think of a time when you were especially proud of your management skills? Tell me about that." D) "In this position, you are responsible for hiring and firing subordinates. Have you ever fired anyone before? Describe how you handled the situation."

B) "Suppose you were confronted with an angry customer who threatened to sue the company. What would you do?"

________ means collecting data about a group, department, or organization, and feeding the information back to the employees so they can analyze it and develop hypotheses about what the problems might be. A) Laboratory training B) Action research C) Group therapy D) Diversity training

B) Action research

16) Which of the following is the primary disadvantage of using interviews to collect job analysis data? A) Interviews are a complicated method for collecting information. B) Employees may exaggerate or minimize some information. C) Interviews provide only general information about a worker's duties. D) Interviews may require managers to reveal the job analysis function.

B) Employees may exaggerate or minimize some information.

8) Which of the following is used to manage employee performance and to align all employees with the key objectives a firm needs to achieve its strategic goals? A) functional planning system B) HR scorecard C) annual HR benchmarks D) high-performance work system

B) HR scorecard

6) Sweet Leaf Tea, a Texas-based maker of bottled iced tea, is a small but fast-growing firm that has gained a loyal following for its use of fresh, organic ingredients in its beverages. Although beverage industry experts recommended that Sweet Leaf replace the organic cane sugar and honey it uses with less costly high-fructose corn syrup, Sweet Leaf refused because of the company's mission to provide a high-quality, organic beverage to consumers. The 11-year old company has 50 employees, and its products are available in 30% of the U.S. market. Sweet Leaf Tea recently received multi-million dollar investments which will enable the business to expand its national presence. Which of the following, if true, best supports the idea that Sweet Leaf Tea has implemented a competitive strategy of differentiation? A) New Sweet Leaf Tea customers are initially attracted to the unique labels and logo on the bottles. B) Loyal customers of Sweet Leaf Tea seek products that are USDA certified organic despite the associated higher costs. C) Other brands of bottled iced tea compete with Sweet Leaf Tea by offering new flavors at competitive prices. D) Sweet Leaf Tea sells both lemonade and teas in a variety of flavors that appeal to consumers of all ages.

B) Loyal customers of Sweet Leaf Tea seek products that are USDA certified organic despite the associated higher costs.

19) Purrfect Pets is a local pet supply store with a following of loyal customers who appreciate the personal service the store's employees provide. After a very profitable year, Purrfect Pets is expanding by opening two more stores. Before hiring employees for the new stores, the manager is considering the idea of conducting a job analysis for each position. Which of the following, if true, would best support the argument that the manager should use a position analysis questionnaire to collect job analysis information? A) Compliance with EEO laws requires businesses to compile quantitative data. B) Management wants to develop a pay scale for all employees at Purrfect Pets. C) Purrfect Pets managers are unfamiliar with the typical routines of most employees. D) Managers believe that some Purrfect Pets employees are overlooking important daily tasks.

B) Management wants to develop a pay scale for all employees at Purrfect Pets.

Oshman manufactures small kitchen appliances, such as blenders, toasters, and mixers. The firm has nearly 80,000 employees in 22 countries. Employees receive annual performance appraisals from their supervisors that combine critical incidents with a graphic rating scale. However, the firm's CEO advocates shifting from performance appraisals to performance management in an attempt to make Oshman more competitive and performance driven. Which of the following, if true, best supports the argument to replace Oshman's traditional appraisal methods with the performance management approach? A) Oshman's competitors in the small appliance industry monitor the performance of their employees through electronic performance monitoring systems. B) Oshman executives want to align the firm's strategic plan with individual employee goals and development needs. C) Oshman has experienced problems associated with central tendency and bias, and the firm wants to ensure that appraisals are legally sound. D) Oshman uses management by objectives as a primary appraisal method and requires supervisors to develop SMART goals.

B) Oshman executives want to align the firm's strategic plan with individual employee goals and development needs.

Which of the following statements is most likely true? A) Interpersonal skills are difficult to judge from phone interviews. B) Phone interviews can generate spontaneous answers from candidates. C) Candidates prefer phone interviews more than face-to-face interviews. D) Interviewers usually judge candidates the same in phone and face-to-face interviews.

B) Phone interviews can generate spontaneous answers from candidates.

39) Red Robin Gourmet Burgers is a national restaurant chain with nearly 36,000 employees that began as a small restaurant in Seattle. Over the years, Red Robin has attempted to develop a reputation as a fun, family restaurant that offers both excellent food and service. Red Robin's core values—honor, integrity, having fun, and continually seeking knowledge—serve as the basis for all of the firm's decisions and are even embroidered on the sleeves of every employee's uniform. As Red Robin continues to expand, executives are considering adding tests to the screening process. Which of the following, if true, would best support the argument that Red Robin should use personality tests in the employee selection process? A) Red Robin encourages employees to participate in the firm's environmental stewardship program to show community support. B) Red Robin seeks outgoing, motivated, and compassionate employees to enhance the experience of its customers. C) Red Robin offers monetary incentives to managers who meet quarterly sales targets and exceed performance expectations. D) Red Robin desires employees with extensive knowledge of the restaurant industry and at least two years of experience serving customers.

B) Red Robin seeks outgoing, motivated, and compassionate employees to enhance the experience of its customers.

Mark Caffrey, vice president of sales at Samson Pharmaceuticals, manages a sales team of ten employees. Members of Mark's sales force vary in experience level. Four members of the sales team have worked at Samson for less than one year. The other six salespeople have been with Samson anywhere from three to seven years. Mark recently received the annual sales report and noticed that sales have been dropping steadily over the last year. Mark is considering the idea of providing training to his sales team as a way to boost sales. Which of the following most likely undermines the argument that the drop in Samson's sales can be solved through training? A) The newest members of the Samson sales force are unfamiliar with the procedures used by the firm to measure the effectiveness of new drugs. B) Samson recently eliminated its long-standing policy of paying salespeople commissions on top of base salaries, which angered employees. C) Samson's most experienced salesperson retired after working at the firm for more than twenty years. D) Samson sales team members recently received their annual performance appraisals.

B) Samson recently eliminated its long-standing policy of paying salespeople commissions on top of base salaries, which angered employees.

How do situational interviews differ from behavioral interviews? A) Situational interviews are based on an applicant's responses to actual past situations. B) Situational interviews are based on how an applicant might behave in a hypothetical situation. C) Situational interviews ask applicants job-related questions to assess their knowledge and skills. D) Behavioral interviews ask applicants to describe their emotions in different hypothetical situations.

B) Situational interviews are based on how an applicant might behave in a hypothetical situation.

25) Marie Boyd has been hired by Barnum Hotels to manage staffing for the regional hotel chain. Barnum intends to open two new hotels within the next three years and will have many job positions to fill. Historically, employee turnover is high at Barnum as employees remain with the company for one or two years before quitting. Marie realizes that Barnum needs to make significant changes in its personnel strategy in order to meet the company's goals for the future and improve employee retention rates. Which of the following, if true, best supports the argument that a scatter plot is the most appropriate tool for Marie to use in estimating future personnel needs? A) Productivity levels for Barnum employees typically vary from month to month. B) The size of the two new Barnum hotels will be similar to the chain's other hotels. C) Barnum requires HR to maintain qualifications inventories for all current employees. D) Personnel replacement charts serve as useful tools when filling Barnum's managerial positions.

B) The size of the two new Barnum hotels will be similar to the chain's other hotels.

According to studies, which of the following has the most influence on the outcome of a job interview? A) thank-you notes sent from the candidate to the interviewer B) an interviewer's first impression of the candidate C) favorable information about the candidate D) a candidate's extroverted personality

B) an interviewer's first impression of the candidate

40) Carter Vacuums needs to hire 20 new employees to fill positions at its manufacturing facility. The HR department wants to minimize the costs related to screening applicants but also wants the assessment method to be highly valid to the specific jobs. Which of the following would be the best choice for Carter Vacuums? A) structured interviews B) cognitive ability tests C) assessment centers D) work samples

B) cognitive ability tests

38) While some personality characteristics are associated with success in different types of jobs, which personality trait is most frequently associated with job performance in all jobs? A) openness to experience B) conscientiousness C) extroversion D) agreeableness

B) conscientiousness

All of the following are reasons for appraising an employee's performance EXCEPT ________. A) correcting any work-related deficiencies B) creating an organizational strategy map C) determining appropriate salary and bonuses D) making decisions about promotions

B) creating an organizational strategy map

Which of the following is a downside of the critical incident method of compiling incidents? A) doesn't provide examples of excellent work performance B) doesn't produce relative ratings for pay raise purposes C) doesn't make the supervisor think about the subordinate's appraisal all year D) doesn't compile examples of ineffective work performance

B) doesn't produce relative ratings for pay raise purposes

Which form of equity refers to the fairness of a job's pay rate in comparison to other jobs within the same company? A) external B) internal C) distributive D) individual

B) internal

Which of the following terms refers to a systematic comparison done in order to determine the worth of one job relative to another? A) job analysis B) job evaluation C) job description D) job classification

B) job evaluation

37) The Big Five personality dimensions include all of the following EXCEPT ________. A) neuroticism B) optimism C) extroversion D) conscientiousness Answer: B

B) optimism

Which of the following terms refers to a series of steps or levels within a pay grade? A) pay metric B) pay range C) wage class D) wage curve

B) pay range

21) Marcus, an HR manager for Samsung, must decide what positions the firm should fill in the next six months, which means Marcus is currently working on ________. A) screening job candidates B) personnel planning C) interviewing job candidates D) writing job descriptions

B) personnel planning

Which job evaluation method is a quantitative technique involving the identification of several compensable factors and the degree to which each of these factors is present in the job? A) ranking method B) point method C) job grading method D) job classification method

B) point method

27) Which of the following is the primary disadvantage of using internal sources of candidates to fill vacant positions in a firm? A) lack of knowledge regarding a candidate's strengths B) potential to lose employees who aren't promoted C) questionable commitment of candidates to the firm D) significant training and orientation requirements

B) potential to lose employees who aren't promoted

24) When managers need to determine which current employees are available for promotion or transfer, they will most likely use ________. A) scatter plots B) skills inventories C) estimated sales trends D) personnel forecasts

B) skills inventories

Trainees should be provided adequate practice and be allowed to work at their own pace during a training session in order to ________. A) screen applicants based on ability B) transfer skills more easily to the job C) reduce training costs D) determine appropriate pay scales

B) transfer skills more easily to the job

34) For over 40 years, Golden Creamery has been mixing up fresh, gourmet ice cream for customers. The company originated in Dallas and now boasts stores in 35 states. The business has primarily expanded by selling franchises to qualified candidates. Golden Creamery executives realize that the firm's success depends upon the success of each franchise. In the past, each individual franchise owner determined the best method for screening applicants. However, as the firm grows, Golden Creamery executives want to standardize the hiring process by requiring all franchisees to use the same preemployment tests. Which of the following, if true, supports the argument that Golden Creamery should require franchise owners to use the firm's preemployment tests? A) Hourly employees at Golden Creamery stores typically remain with the company long enough to be promoted to management positions. B) Golden Creamery franchise owners pay an initial franchise fee and receive a percentage of sales royalties in return. C) Annual turnover rates for hourly employees of Golden Creamery stores are three times the rate of comparable businesses. D) Individuals interested in working at a Golden Creamery store can complete online applications on the firm's Web site.

C) Annual turnover rates for hourly employees of Golden Creamery stores are three times the rate of comparable businesses.

What usually occurs when employees rate themselves for performance appraisals? A) Ratings are reliable but invalid. B) Ratings are subject to halo effects. C) Ratings are higher than when provided by supervisors. D) Ratings are about the same as when determined by peers.

C) Ratings are higher than when provided by supervisors.

When interviewing an applicant with a disability who uses assistive technology, which of the following questions should NOT be asked? A) Have you ever experienced any problems between your technology and an employer's information system? B) How have you addressed any barriers or obstacles that you may have encountered in previous jobs? C) What is the severity and exact nature of your disability and how does the technology assist you? D) What specific technology have you successfully used in previous jobs that facilitated your work?

C) What is the severity and exact nature of your disability and how does the technology assist you?

Which of the following terms refers to a compensation plan that advances a firm's strategic goals? A) strategic management B) performance pay plan C) aligned reward strategy D) workers' compensation package

C) aligned reward strategy

13) The primary drawback of performing a job analysis regards the ________. A) unverifiable data a job analysis typically provides B) certification required to conduct a job analysis C) amount of time a job analysis takes to complete D) redundant information gathered during a job analysis

C) amount of time a job analysis takes to complete

Which of the following is the primary advantage of lecturing as a method of training? A) motivational for employees B) effective for informal learning C) appropriate for large groups D) requires limited preparation

C) appropriate for large groups

All of the following will most likely improve the structure of an interview EXCEPT ________. A) using the same questions for all candidates B) rating candidate answers against a scale C) asking candidates to describe themselves D) using a standardized interview form

C) asking candidates to describe themselves

Which of the following is most likely NOT one of the goals of a firm's employee orientation program? A) making new employees feel like part of a team B) helping new employees become socialized into the firm C) assisting new employees in selecting the best labor union D) teaching new employees about the firm's history and strategies

C) assisting new employees in selecting the best labor union

3) Harley-Davidson sells a line of boots, helmets, and leather jackets indicating that the firm is pursuing which of the following strategies? A) consolidation B) geographic expansion C) diversification D) horizontal integration

C) diversification

29) An employer will most likely use a private employment agency in order to ________. A) receive assistance writing job ads B) adhere to federal hiring practices C) fill a specific job opening quickly D) spend more time recruiting applicants

C) fill a specific job opening quickly

15) Jerome, a manager at an electronics company, needs to gather job analysis information from a large number of employees who perform similar work. Which of the following would be most appropriate for Jerome? A) observing all employees B) interviewing the HR manager C) holding a group interview with a supervisor D) conducting telephone surveys of all employees

C) holding a group interview with a supervisor

Which of the following is most likely NOT measured when evaluating a training program? A) what trainees learned from the program B) participants' reactions to the program C) overall organizational productivity D) changes in on-the-job behavior

C) overall organizational productivity

A ________ is comprised of jobs of approximately equal difficulty or importance as established by job evaluation. A) wage curve B) benchmark C) pay grade D) class

C) pay grade

35) As part of the selection process for a position at UPS, Jack has been asked to lift weights and jump rope. Which of the following is most likely being measured by UPS? A) interpersonal skills B) cognitive skills C) physical abilities D) achievements

C) physical abilities

John feels that he owes his organization hard work and loyalty while the company owes him fair treatment and satisfactory work conditions. This is an example of: A) career planning B) exit interview C) psychological contract D) transfer

C) psychological contract

What are the two primary components of computerized job evaluations? A) compensable factors and benchmark jobs B) grade definitions and factor comparisons C) structured questionnaires and statistical models D) structured questionnaires and grade definitions

C) structured questionnaires and statistical models

32) Demonstrating the content validity of a test can be best accomplished by showing that ________. A) tasks performed on the test are general enough to apply to any type of job B) higher test scores are statistically equivalent to proven, long-term job success C) the test is representative of important aspects of performance on the job D) scores on the test are both internally and externally reliable

C) the test is representative of important aspects of performance on the job

The rate at which employees leave a firm is best known as ________. A) downsizing B) retirement C) turnover D) retention

C) turnover

Amy, an accounting supervisor, has been asked to provide training for her subordinates about new tax laws. In order to motivate the individuals who attend her training session, Amy should most likely do all of the following EXCEPT ________. A) use as many visual aids as possible during the session B) provide an overview of the material to be covered C) use new terminology and technical concepts D) give information in logical, meaningful sections

C) use new terminology and technical concepts

4) Winchester Rugs operates a Web site called www.buyrugsdirect.com, so Winchester Rugs is most likely using a strategy of ________. A) consolidation B) geographic expansion C) vertical integration D) concentration

C) vertical integration

Which of the following will most likely help a speaker improve the effectiveness of a training lecture? A) opening with a familiar joke B) talking from a prepared script C) watching the audience's body language D) using exaggerated hand gestures to emphasize points

C) watching the audience's body language

Wells Fargo and Company is a financial services firm that provides banking, insurance, and mortgage services at 10,000 stores nationwide. Wells Fargo offers its employees many professional development opportunities such as training programs and tuition reimbursement. Wells Fargo executives are considering the expansion of the firm's existing training programs after employees have expressed strong interest in the idea. Which of the following, if true, best supports the argument that Wells Fargo should integrate computer simulations into its training program for bank tellers? A) The Wells Fargo intranet-based learning portal provides employees with access to a variety of training courses. B) Wells Fargo is one of the few financial institutions to require all employees to participate in at least 30 hours of training each year. C) Wells Fargo bank tellers use electronic performance support systems to assist them with handling complicated bank transactions. D) Employee surveys indicate that many Wells Fargo bank tellers are uncertain about the best methods for handling angry customers.

D) Employee surveys indicate that many Wells Fargo bank tellers are uncertain about the best methods for handling angry customers.

14) Which of the following guidelines is most likely recommended to managers conducting a job analysis? A) Use one tool for gathering information to maintain the validity of the final results. B) Rely on the human resource manager to complete questionnaires and verify data. C) Conduct group interviews without supervisors present to ensure accuracy. D) Ensure that the questions and the process are clarified to employees.

D) Ensure that the questions and the process are clarified to employees.

George Reyes has recently been hired as the vice president of marketing at Great Toys, a mid-size firm that specializes in classic wooden toys. The CEO of Great Toys wants to expand the firm's presence in the toy market, which is highly competitive. As a result, the marketing department's budget has been significantly increased. George plans to use some of the additional funds to hire a new media planner. George is considering the idea of conducting a structured situational interview in the hiring process. Which of the following, if true, best supports the argument that George should use a structured situational interview to hire a media planner? A) Great Toys' HR department has developed a job description for the new media planner position. B) Great Toys' competitors typically face legal issues in the hiring process stemming from the ADA. C) Great Toys' employees typically remain with the company for many years because they feel comfortable with the organizational culture. D) Great Toys' executives want to ensure that the interview process is fair to all candidates and that the best candidate is hired.

D) Great Toys' executives want to ensure that the interview process is fair to all candidates and that the best candidate is hired.

Which of the following is a true statement regarding structured situational interviews? A) Answers are compared to industry standards. B) Hypothetical questions are typically avoided. C) Job descriptions are written after the interview. D) Interviews are usually conducted by a panel.

D) Interviews are usually conducted by a panel.

Mark Caffrey, vice president of sales at Samson Pharmaceuticals, manages a sales team of ten employees. Members of Mark's sales force vary in experience level. Four members of the sales team have worked at Samson for less than one year. The other six salespeople have been with Samson anywhere from three to seven years. Mark recently received the annual sales report and noticed that sales have been dropping steadily over the last year. Mark is considering the idea of providing training to his sales team as a way to boost sales. Which of the following best supports the argument that the drop in Samson's sales can be solved through training? A) Attitude surveys sent to Samson personnel suggest that the firm's elimination of year-end bonuses has angered many employees. B) Recent studies suggest that sales of name-brand pharmaceuticals, such as Samson, are dropping as more people are choosing to use generic drugs instead. C) The rising costs associated with college recruiting have forced Samson to hire sales associates through online job sites. D) Members of the sales team have expressed that they do not fully understand the benefits and side effects of the latest medications released by Samson.

D) Members of the sales team have expressed that they do not fully understand the benefits and side effects of the latest medications released by Samson.

18) Purrfect Pets is a local pet supply store with a following of loyal customers who appreciate the personal service the store's employees provide. After a very profitable year, Purrfect Pets is expanding by opening two more stores. Before hiring employees for the new stores, the manager is considering the idea of conducting a job analysis for each position. Which of the following, if true, would best support the argument that the manager should conduct group interviews to gather job analysis information? A) Purrfect Pets is an excellent place to work because of the positive work environment. B) Most of the young employees of Purrfect Pets would feel awkward during a one-on-one interview. C) Employees at Purrfect Pets work well with their colleagues, and few staffing conflicts occur. D) Numerous employees at Purrfect Pets perform similar tasks during the work day.

D) Numerous employees at Purrfect Pets perform similar tasks during the work day.

Oshman manufactures small kitchen appliances, such as blenders, toasters, and mixers. The firm has nearly 80,000 employees in 22 countries. Employees receive annual performance appraisals from their supervisors that combine critical incidents with a graphic rating scale. However, the firm's CEO advocates shifting from performance appraisals to performance management in an attempt to make Oshman more competitive and performance driven. All of the following questions are relevant to Oshman's decision to replace its traditional appraisal methods with the performance management approach EXCEPT: A) What technology is available to help managers gain immediate access to employee performance data? B) How would work procedures need to be modified to provide more frequent feedback to employees? C) How would the firm's mission and vision translate into departmental, team, and individual goals? D) What procedures are already in place to effectively identify and measure critical incidents?

D) What procedures are already in place to effectively identify and measure critical incidents?

20) Which of the following questions will most likely be addressed by a manager who is writing a job description based on a competency-based job analysis? A) What are the typical duties associated with this job? B) What are the working conditions and safety issues related to this job? C) What opportunities for advancement are available to an employee in this job? D) What should the employee be able to do in order to competently perform this job?

D) What should the employee be able to do in order to competently perform this job?

22) A trend analysis is limited in its usefulness because it ________. A) overlooks the passage of time in regards to staffing B) addresses only the financial impact of employment changes C) assumes constant increases in worker productivity D) overlooks the potential for changes in skills needed

D) overlooks the potential for changes in skills needed

Which of the following will most likely NOT help employers protect themselves against charges of negligent training? A) confirming an employee's claims of skill and experience B) providing extensive and appropriate training C) evaluating the effectiveness of the training D) paying employees for their training time

D) paying employees for their training time

Which form of equity refers to the perceived fairness of the processes used to make decisions regarding the allocation of pay? A) internal B) distributive C) individual D) procedural

D) procedural

You are conducting an appraisal interview with an employee whose performance is satisfactory but for whom promotion is not possible. Which incentive listed below would be the LEAST effective option for maintaining satisfactory performance in this situation? A) time off B) small bonus C) recognition D) professional development

D) professional development

36) Make a Picture Story and the Forer Structured Sentence Completion Test are examples of ________ tests. A) intelligence B) apperception C) self-reported D) projective

D) projective

Which of the following is primarily the role of the manager in an employee's career development? A) providing career information B) seeking development opportunities C) providing academic assistance programs D) providing accurate performance feedback

D) providing accurate performance feedback

A manager who begins an interview by asking the applicant about the weather is most likely attempting to ________. A) seek a spontaneous answer from the candidate B) identify the candidate's leadership abilities C) assess the candidate's interpersonal skills D) put the candidate at ease

D) put the candidate at ease

Which of the following is the primary disadvantage of using structured interviews during the employee selection process? A) higher potential for bias B) limited validity and reliability C) inconsistency across candidates D) reduced opportunities for asking follow-up questions

D) reduced opportunities for asking follow-up questions