CPC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CPC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the purpose of employee performance management systems? → To improve employee performance and organizational success
2. What is the ADDIE model used for in training and development? → A systematic framework for designing and developing training programs
3. What is 'redeployment' in staffing agency operations? → Placing a worker in a new role at or after the end of their current assignment
4. What is the purpose of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)? → To ensure that workplaces are safe and free from health hazards
5. Which of the following is considered an ethical use of social media in recruiting? → Using publicly available professional profiles to identify potential candidates
6. What is the purpose of a compensation system? → To attract, motivate, and retain employees
7. Which of the following is a key objective of performance management systems? → To assess and improve employee performance
8. A recruiter accepts a gift of significant value from a client after a successful placement. This creates a potential: → Conflict of interest that may compromise future objectivity
9. What is the purpose of a 'learning management system' (LMS)? → To administer, document, track, report, and deliver training programs
10. What does 'client retention rate' measure for a staffing firm? → The percentage of clients who continue using the firm's services over a defined period
11. Which type of assessment measures a candidate's ability to perform actual job tasks? → Work sample test
12. A personnel consultant who guarantees a client a hire will be 'perfect' is most likely violating which ethical principle? → Accuracy in representations and avoiding unrealistic promises
13. A CPC discovers mid-search that a preferred candidate has a material embellishment on their resume. The ethical action is to: → Disclose the finding to the client and withdraw the candidate
14. Which training delivery method is BEST suited for teaching soft skills like communication and leadership? → Role-playing and simulation exercises
15. Which workforce planning approach relies on manager input and estimates to forecast staffing needs? → Bottom-up forecasting
16. What does 'transfer of training' refer to? → The degree to which trainees apply learned knowledge and skills back on the job
17. Kirkpatrick's Four-Level Training Evaluation Model measures training at which highest level? → Results (business impact)
18. The STAR method in behavioral interviewing stands for: → Situation, Task, Action, Result
19. Return on Investment (ROI) for training programs is calculated as: → (Benefits minus costs) divided by costs × 100
20. Which approach to employee development focuses on learning through job assignments, relationships, and formal education in a 70-20-10 model? → 70% experiential on the job, 20% social/relationship learning, 10% formal training
21. Which of the following is protected under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)? → Unpaid leave for qualifying family or medical reasons
22. When a dispute arises over a placement fee, what clause in the agreement would determine whether the matter goes to arbitration or litigation? → The dispute resolution clause
23. What is the primary objective of recruitment? → To identify potential candidates and attract them for job openings
24. What is the purpose of employee relations programs? → To foster positive relations and resolve conflicts
25. What does the term 'total compensation' refer to? → The sum of all monetary and non-monetary benefits
26. According to professional standards, what should a recruiter do when they cannot fulfill a search assignment? → Promptly notify the client and return any unearned fees
27. How do employee relations affect organizational performance? → They boost employee motivation and organizational performance
28. Which of the following is an example of employment discrimination? → Firing an employee based on their race or gender
29. Which of the following is an ILLEGAL pre-employment inquiry in the United States? → Asking a candidate's date of birth or age directly
30. What is the main objective of employee benefits? → To offer additional security and value beyond salary