Question: I attended a job interview and was amazed to discover two young people on the interview panel. Is this normal practice and are young people really equipped to make judgments about adult employment?
Jeanie Lynch: Assuming the job you were being interviewed for involved working with children and young people, it is interesting you were so surprised - and, by the sounds of it, slightly put out by this situation.
Many organisations encourage active participation by young people in service development. This can involve anything from deciding a service name, joining a steering group or being part of staff interviews.
Being part of an interview panel can give young people a huge sense of responsibility and pride. Any agency worth its salt will ensure they are properly trained and briefed on the process. Involving young people adds depth to the recruitment process as they often pick up on things adults miss. Ask yourself why you felt so nonplussed. A service can only be effective if it is user-led.
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