What is shortlisting in the recruitment process?

• A. Selecting a subset of candidates who meet the job requirements from all applicants.
• B. Interviewing all applicants in depth.
• C. Posting the job advertisement.
• D. Writing the job description.

Answer: (A)

Shortlisting is the stage where you narrow down all applications to a smaller group who meet the essential requirements of the job. After receiving applications, the recruiter screens CVs and forms against the key criteria—like qualifications, experience, and skills—to identify those who are truly suitable to proceed. This keeps the process efficient, focusing interview time on the most promising candidates and ensuring a fair, manageable next step.

Interviews all applicants in-depth would be inefficient and impractical, so that isn’t shortlisting. Posting the job advertisement and writing the job description happen earlier in the process to attract applicants and define the role, respectively, rather than selecting a reduced group to move forward.