Which of the following is not a recommended way to evaluate applicants for a position?

• A. Interview
• B. Reference check
• C. Education history
• D. Hire a private investigator to follow the applicant and observe his or her behavior.

Answer: (D)

Evaluating applicants should rely on open, job-relevant methods that provide reliable information about a candidate’s ability to perform the job. An interview lets you assess skills, problem-solving, communication, and cultural fit; reference checks give insight into past performance and reliability; education history verification helps confirm credentials. Hiring a private investigator to shadow the applicant is not appropriate because it is invasive and often illegal without proper authorization, raising serious privacy and potential discrimination concerns. It can create liability for the employer and erode trust in the hiring process. If you need background information, use lawful methods with consent and in compliance with applicable laws; covert surveillance is not a standard or acceptable practice in evaluating candidates.