Which method provides a realistic preview of a job during the selection process?

Job shadowing is an effective method for providing a realistic preview of a job during the selection process. This approach allows candidates to observe the daily tasks, responsibilities, and work environment of the position they are applying for by following a current employee. This firsthand experience enables potential employees to gain insight into the job's actual demands and culture of the organization, which helps them assess whether the role aligns with their skills and career aspirations.

In contrast, unstructured interviews may not provide a clear or comprehensive overview of the job, as they can be highly variable and subjective, often lacking specific details about job responsibilities. Traditional written tests are designed to assess a candidate's knowledge or skills but do not give insight into the practical realities of the job. Similarly, reference checks are valuable for understanding a candidate's past performance and work ethic but do not give a direct preview of the job itself, as they depend on third-party assessments rather than personal experience.