2.02 SM-065 The Gray Zone

Recruiting is an important staffing activity. Managers want to make sure they find the right candidate for any open job position. In some situations, contract terms require managers to post the jobs externally (outside the company) as well as internally (inside the company). In other situations, it’s the managers’ choice. Sometimes, managers may have an internal candidate in mind for a position from the time it opens up. However, they may feel the need to interview several external candidates as well—perhaps to prove to upper management that they “covered all their bases.” In short, they may be bringing in external candidates that they have no real intention of hiring. What do you think about this practice? Is it ethical?