Often adopted by small groups operating in local areas where potential new members are drawn from a very restricted pool of people.  Individuals may speak informally to existing committee or staff members.

Benefits?

• Flexible
• Requires little bureaucracy
• May generate interest with minimal effort

Drawbacks?

• May present limited opportunity to review relevant skills and experience or check whether they meet essential criteria for the role
• It may restrict the ability to identify people with different skills, experience and backgrounds
• It makes it less likely that diversity issues on the committee will be effectively addressed
• It may also be difficult to be completely fair and consistent if choosing between applicants