Selection Criteria and Scoring Matrix
An objective, weighted scoring matrix with defined behavioural anchors for each criterion, plus the evidence source for every score.
An objective, weighted scoring matrix with defined behavioural anchors for each criterion, plus the evidence source for every score.
When to use it
After the pool is confirmed and shared with representatives, before any scoring takes place.
Choosing selection criteria that are objective and defensible
Selection criteria decide who leaves, so they attract the most scrutiny of anything in a redundancy process. The standard to aim for is simple to state and hard to meet: criteria that are objective, measurable from evidence that already exists, applied consistently, and free from bias against protected groups.
What belongs in the matrix
Skills and qualifications relevant to the future structure, demonstrable performance against records that predate the restructure, relevant experience, and — used carefully — disciplinary record. Attendance is high risk unless disability, pregnancy and family-related absence are excluded, and the exclusion is documented.
Weightings and scoring descriptors
Every criterion needs a written descriptor for each score, so two managers scoring the same person reach broadly the same number. Weightings should reflect the future structure, not the past one. Agree both before scoring begins and share them with representatives; consulting on criteria after scoring is not consultation.
Two scorers, one moderation
Scores should be given by people with genuine knowledge of the work, ideally two independently, then moderated. Immediately afterwards, run the Scoring Moderation and Equality Impact Check before any provisional outcome is shared.
Evidence, not impressions
Each score should point to something: a record, an output, a qualification. "Strong team player" is not a criterion; it is an opinion waiting to be challenged. The matrix has an evidence column for exactly this reason.
Use it after the pool is confirmed via the Selection Pool Definition Worksheet. The selection chapter of our restructuring guides works through examples of criteria that hold and criteria that do not.
