A realistic job preview (RJP) involves providing recruits with complete information about a job and organization. Rather than trying to attract applicants by selectively presenting only positive aspects of a job, in RJP, the recruit is given both positive and negative information—in essence, the whole truth. The goal of an RJP is to increase newcomers’ satisfaction and commitment and the likelihood that they will remain with an organization. There are four main purposes of an RJP.

Providing accurate information to outsiders is similar to vaccinating people against a disease. Recruits are given information that permits them to adjust their expectations to the reality of the job. For example, a realistic portrayal of typical overtime or weekend work may assist applicants in understanding all that will be required of them in a given job. Realistic expectations enable recruits to decide whether the job and the organization match their individual needs.

If they are incompatible, the recruit will probably not accept the position, thus saving the organization from hiring someone who would likely be dissatisfied and quit. Realistic expectations help newcomers develop a clear idea of their roles, which in turn enables them to develop coping strategies for performing their jobs effectively. A recruit who makes a decision to join an organization based on a realistic perspective will likely develop a stronger personal commitment to that choice.

The first step in developing an RJP is to assess the need for one. Employees who voluntarily leave the organization should be interviewed to determine their reasons for leaving. This provides HRD professionals with knowledge to make more informed decisions about implementing RJPs.