Depending on the role you're applying for the selection process will consist of one or two stages, to find out more read on ...
Stage One - The Interview
All short listed candidates will attend an interview. This may be held where the role is going to be based or at one of our Head Offices in Coventry. All interviews are carried out by at least two interviewers.
The interview is your opportunity to impress us and to demonstrate that you have the necessary skills, experience and ability to be successful in the role, as well as finding out more about the role and the Society.
The Society welcomes applications from disabled people. If you need any particular arrangements made for interviews as a result of your disability please let us know.
Interview tips - by no means an exhaustive list!
- Be prepared - do some research about the Society and about the role you're interested in. Know where you are going - practice the journey if necessary, and most importantly get a good night's sleep!
- Be yourself - be honest, we want to meet you. Demonstrate, with examples your achievements and how you meet the criteria for the role.
- Listen carefully - this will ensure your answers are relevant - don't be afraid to ask for clarification if you aren't sure what's being asked.
- Ask questions - this will demonstrate an interest in the Society.
Try to relax and keep calm. However, don't worry if you are nervous - this is your body's natural way of meeting a challenge. Good luck with the interview!
Stage Two - The Assessment Centre
We believe that both technical and behavioural skills are equally important - it's not just what you do, but how you do it that matters.
Following the initial interview, we may use an Assessment Centre to assist us in determining the successful candidate(s).
The Assessment Centre is an organised event, which usually lasts for at least a half day, where you would be expected to participate in practical exercises. We usually use exercises produced by shl. Practice tests can be found by visiting www.shl.com. We strongly recommend that you practice in this way prior to attending the assessment centre.
- Group Exercises
These exercises are timed discussions where a group are given a particular work related problem.
- Presentations
You will be either given a presentation topic to prepare for the day, or asked on the day to analyse and interpret given information, then present your decision.
- In-tray exercises
This exercise involves working from the contents of an in-tray, which typically consists of letters, memos and background information. You may be asked to deal with paperwork and make decisions balancing the volume of work against a tight schedule.
- Psychometric tests
This exercise consists of an occupational personality questionnaire and asks about your preferred style and approach to relationships, thinking styles and emotions within a working environment.
- Role plays
In this timed exercise the candidate will meet with a role player. The candidate's brief is to gather information and to engage in discussion with the role player on a business related issue.
- Verbal and Numerical exercises
These exercises are timed, multiple choice paper and pencil tests, and will include numerical and verbal reasoning.
PLEASE DON'T PANIC!
The type and number of exercises you will participate in will be dependant on the role you are applying for! You can find more information about our policy on assessment centres here.
Assessment Centre Tips
- Get a good night's sleep the night before.
- Eat a substantial breakfast to set you up for the day!
- Listen carefully to the instructions given during each exercise.
- If you are unsure of anything during the Assessment, please feel free to ask.
- Always try to be yourself.
- Enjoy the experience!