Delegated Examining Unit (DEU) Certification Practice Exam

How soon should OPM suggest notifying non-selected candidates?

1. No later than 10 business days

2. Within 5 business days

3. After 15 business days

4. As soon as possible

The correct answer is: No later than 10 business days

Notifying non-selected candidates no later than 10 business days aligns with the principles of effective communication and transparency in the hiring process. It is crucial for maintaining a positive candidate experience, as timely communication allows candidates to understand their status and adjust their job search efforts accordingly. This timeframe is suggested to ensure that candidates are not left waiting for prolonged periods, which can create uncertainty and frustration. By establishing a clear timeline for notifications, the OPM promotes professionalism in the hiring process and supports good public relations practices. While notifying candidates "within 5 business days" might seem advantageous, it could be unrealistic in some situations, especially if there are multiple candidates or if the selection process involved detailed evaluations. The suggestion to notify "after 15 business days" could lead to prolonged uncertainty for candidates, which could negatively impact their experience and perception of the agency. The phrase "as soon as possible" is too vague without a specific timeframe, which could leave room for delays and inconsistency in practices. Thus, the 10-business day guideline strikes a balance between promptness and practicality.