Final answer:
Yes, an applicant who does not possess a Quality Ranking Factor can be screened out by employers who use these factors to assess candidates and reduce the risk of hiring an unsuitable employee.
Step-by-step explanation:
Can an applicant who does not possess a Quality Ranking Factor be screened out? The direct answer is Yes. In job markets that suffer from imperfect information, employers are faced with the challenge of screening candidates to avoid hiring a poor quality employee. They look for various signals that can indicate a candidate's potential, such as educational background, work history, and additional accolades. Quality Ranking Factors such as a specific degree, high grade point average, or relevant awards may be used to pre-screen applicants and mitigate the risk of hiring an unsuitable candidate.
Without these factors, candidates might not even secure an interview, effectively being screened out of the selection process. This reflects the importance of educational and professional achievements in the hiring process and the employer's pursuit to maximize the probability of hiring a competent and reliable employee.