AMA Trait launches

17 Janaury 2013

Called ‘AMA Trait’, in line with the IMI’s Automotive Management Accreditation (AMA) Competency Framework, the psychometric profiling tool has been developed in close collaboration with Motor Industry Consultants Ltd, responsible for managing the initiative, as well as specialist academics from Aston Business Assessments, a spin out company from Aston University.

Part funded by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, the new tool, which has been trialled by over 50 motor retailers involving 300 individuals, is designed to evaluate personality traits and potential competencies of those in managerial roles. It also helps identify the most suitable individuals prior to interview, thus minimising the risks of choosing the wrong candidate from the outset.

Industry research* suggests that employee turnover rates in the sector are as high as 30% per year, often made worse because the recruitment process is left to the last minute. As well as providing valuable information to select the right person for the role, AMA Trait provides guidance on conducting the interview itself, including the best questions to ask.

A survey* of over 200 dealers found that 75% did not know how much they spent on recruitment. The study found that fees were often absorbed into operational expenses and time allocated to finding new staff was rarely measured.  The system has the potential to help businesses measure their recruitment costs.

As part of the IMI’s mission to improve development opportunities within the sector, AMA Trait also evaluates progression suitability. To ascertain management potential, the tool assesses individuals against 12 of the critical competencies of the IMI’s AMA Competency Framework. The resulting information provides candidates with a detailed profile of their potential strengths and weaknesses, highlighting any areas for further development.

Steve Scofield, Head of the Accreditation Academy at the IMI, which has overseen the project, commented:
“In a highly challenging economy, the traditional methods of recruitment have proven to be ineffective and costly to the sector, demanding a fresh approach. Following months of painstaking development and subsequent trialling, AMA Trait offers a structured and cost-effective programme enabling businesses to significantly enhance their selection process. AMA Trait provides a quick and effective way to help identify the right manager for your business, saving time and cost.”

AMA Trait is part funded by UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES). The investment, which forms part of the Government's Employer Investment Fund (EIF), delivers projects to boost enterprise, jobs and growth.