The nature of the work and characteristics necessary for carrying out the roles
When planning a workforce, a human resources manager will consider the type of people needed in roles. Ensuring the business gets the best range of people with the right qualities is critical. Recruitment can be expensive and can take time, so it is important to know exactly what is needed before going ahead.
Skill level
Skills is a term that encompasses the knowledge, competence and ability to perform tasks. It is necessary to determine what skills the workforce needs. For example, Welsh speaking skills are required to work in many businesses in Wales.
To work in the Senedd, for example, candidates must be able to speak a certain level of Welsh, depending on the nature of the role:
Experience
People gain experience by working in a certain field. Businesses often want to plan to have a certain number of experienced employees. Experienced employees can get the job done quickly, may require less training and will be able to mentor inexperienced employees.
Educational level
Educational level is another factor that needs close consideration. Their educational level can indicate a person's aptitude for further learning and for some roles it will be necessary to have reached university or further education level in order to do the job, e.g. doctors, lecturers, engineers and so on.
Aptitude
Aptitude is not about educational level but rather about a person's ability to do the job. Aptitude can come through gaining qualifications or experience, or through natural talent. Some businesses test the ability of job applicants using aptitude tests. Some universities do the same for courses such as medicine and languages.