Example question for SHRM exam: Discuss and identify the role that SHRM planning plays in

forecasting the demand and supply of labour in an organisation and evaluate the options
available to avoid labour shortage and eliminate labour surplus (25 marks)
Start by writing: This question relates to HR planning and recruitment - Chapter 5 of the textbook,
Human Resource Management, 9th edn.
1)

Write an introductory paragraph (4-5 sentences) which outlines the topic.

Ask yourself the following: What is a Labour Forecasting and Who does one? Why is it done? How is it
done? and lastly When is it done? Answer these 5 questions in your Intro. Equals 4-5 lines
2)
Write the company introductory paragraph (4-5 sentences) which outlines the company, situation
and the background you will use as an example.
Ask yourself the following: What does the company do and? Why is it done and How is it done and
lastly When & Where is it done. Answer these 5 questions in your company Intro. Equals 4-5 lines
3)

Write headings which act as a structure to follow. e.g.: STEP 1 Forecasting Demand and Supply

4) Write 4-5 sentences to cover each concept / point.

Ask yourself the following: What is done in Forecasting Labour Demand and Supply and Who does it?
Why is it done? and How is it done? and lastly When is it done? Answer these 5 questions. Equals 4-5
lines
5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 above in this exact same way for all remaining 4 steps to Forecasting Demand
and Supply. When introducing a concept in each new paragraph; use signposting with phrases such as:

The definition of labour supply is

The issue of labour supply focuses on

The key aspect discussed in labour supply is

The central theme of labour supply is

When you have introduced a new concept and signposted it; you then define it and provide an linked
example to your company. Supporting sentences then expands on the point and can be introduced by
the following:

An illustration of this forecasted labour supply at Kleenex was when....

For instance when Kleenex developed its labour supply strategy....

Such as when Kleenex used forecasting labour supply to......

Specifically through forecasting labour supply being used, Kleenex.....

6)
End with a short concluding paragraph to summarise the main point you have.. This can be
initiated using phrases below such as: (Refer to conclusion paragraphs in the subject topic notes &
write the same way)

In conclusion

In summary

It has been shown that

Thus

Notes:

Each paragraph needs a standard structure which is : A leading sentence, an explanation and
justification (Who / What / Where / When / Why / How) and a closing sentence.

As a final analytical swing & to get HD marks at the end of any paragraph in the answer above,
Lastly ask one more question - SO WHAT?
Each 25 mark question (not part A & B questions - I avoid these...) only needs 3-4 page
answers.