Question 1

What is the difference between a job description and a person specification?

Accepted Answer

A job description outlines the duties, responsibilities, and tasks of a specific job, such as 'managing a team of five' or 'preparing monthly reports'. A person specification lists the qualifications, skills, experience, and personal attributes required for the job, like 'GCSE Maths and English' or 'excellent communication skills'. In recruitment, the job description attracts candidates, while the person specification helps select the right person.

Question 2

How does Maslow's hierarchy of needs apply to motivation in business?

Accepted Answer

Maslow's theory suggests that employees have five levels of needs: physiological (e.g., salary), safety (e.g., job security), social (e.g., teamwork), esteem (e.g., recognition), and self-actualisation (e.g., challenging work). Businesses can motivate staff by meeting these needs. For example, providing a safe working environment addresses safety needs, while offering training and promotion opportunities helps satisfy esteem and self-actualisation needs. However, Maslow's theory is criticised for assuming all people have the same needs hierarchy.

Question 3

What are the main employment laws I need to know for GCSE Business?

Accepted Answer

Key laws include the Equality Act 2010, which protects against discrimination based on age, gender, race, disability, etc. The National Minimum Wage Act sets minimum hourly pay rates (e.g., £10.42 for over-23s in 2023). The Working Time Regulations limit weekly working hours to 48 (unless opted out) and require rest breaks and paid holiday. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 requires employers to ensure a safe workplace. You should know how these laws affect recruitment, pay, and working conditions.

Question 4

What is the difference between on-the-job and off-the-job training?

Accepted Answer

On-the-job training takes place at the workplace while the employee is working, such as coaching, job shadowing, or mentoring. It is cost-effective and practical but may be disruptive. Off-the-job training occurs away from the workplace, like college courses, workshops, or e-learning. It provides specialist skills and a broader perspective but can be expensive and time off work. Businesses often use a mix of both to develop employees effectively.

Question 5

How do trade unions affect employee relations?

Accepted Answer

Trade unions are organisations that represent workers' interests, such as negotiating pay, working conditions, and benefits with employers. They can improve employee relations by giving workers a collective voice, reducing conflict through formal negotiation (collective bargaining), and providing legal support. However, they can also lead to disputes if negotiations break down, potentially resulting in strikes or industrial action. Employers may prefer to work with unions to maintain a harmonious workplace.

Question 6

What is the recruitment process step by step?

Accepted Answer

The recruitment process typically follows these steps: 1) Identify a vacancy (e.g., due to expansion or resignation). 2) Conduct a job analysis to determine tasks and requirements. 3) Write a job description and person specification. 4) Advertise the job internally (e.g., on intranet) or externally (e.g., job sites, newspapers). 5) Receive and review applications. 6) Shortlist candidates. 7) Conduct selection methods (e.g., interviews, tests). 8) Make a job offer to the successful candidate. 9) Induct the new employee. Each step must comply with employment law to avoid discrimination.

Human resources

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Related Topics in WJEC GCSE Business

Business activity

Business operations

Finance

Influences on business

How to Revise Human resources — WJEC GCSE Business

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