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Letter of the week: Strictly Come Dancing has no place in recruitment process
Wow - what a legal minefield. There is age discrimination - I wasn't even born when Blame it on the Boogie was released race discrimination - as an Irish man, my dancing is more Michael Flatley than Michael Jackson and, of course, on a more serious note, I'm surprised no-one has considered the implications for disabled applicants.
As a recruiter, I am well aware of the importance of putting candidates at ease to ensure optimum performance during the interview. But the problem with this ice-breaker is that it may actually have the opposite effect, causing embarrassment and discomfort. It also has no face validity, as it bears no relevance to the actual job.
The CIPD's response is staggering, suggesting this is a way "of checking that people have the right attitude to fit in with the company's culture". I don't know whether anyone has actually tested the reliability of this selection tool, but I would imagine it is down there with astrology and tea leaves.
Shane Lynch
Workforce information manager, Hertfordshire County Council
Culture of fun is one of B&Q's best selling points
As an ex-employee of B&Q, perhaps I can make an informed contribution to the recent 'dancing at job interviews' debate.
Like many retail outfits, B&Q is a high energy, fast-moving organisation that can be both physically and emotionally demanding to work for. It has its faults (tell me a large company that doesn't), but one of its many positives is its open, fun and down-to-earth culture.
Dancing at interviews may seem strange to an outsider, but may be a good way to break the ice in a manner that is in line with the values of the company. Such methods were used many times in stores to create a fun atmosphere - or even to liven up hard-going meetings. It was always appreciated by staff when senior managers, including directors, got involved, showing that they were not stuffy, and were part of the team.
It may not be for everyone, but for organisations with such a culture, I can understand the benefits of a 'bit of a boogie'.
James Greaves
Senior HR adviser, Faithful+Gould
Dance move looks good o
