Hints & Tips
Take some time to read these hints and tips - they're here to make sure your application is as good as it can possibly be.
Read the 'Vacancy Details'. This information is essential reading, but surprisingly many people don't devote time to take it all in. As a result, many applications fall at the first hurdle. It might seem daunting, but it contains things you need to know. We recommend that you refer to it on a regular basis when putting together your application.
Educational and other qualifications. We always clearly ask for what we want, and that's all we look for. For example, if we ask for a 2:1 degree minimum, and you have a 2.2, your application will not be considered. If we ask for your first degree, we won't consider any further or post-grad qualifications - so it's pointless trying to squeeze them into the box. If we say, ‘don't include AS levels or General Studies among your qualifications', please don't add them. If you'd like to include other qualifications, you can put them in the CV section. But please note: if we haven't asked for them, they won't count as part of the assessment.
Answer the questions. It's important to note that we assess candidates on a competency basis, which is all about demonstrating the right capabilities (competencies) in either your work or home life. Most of our forms have space to put evidence of your abilities in certain areas - e.g. team-working, IT, problem solving. The space is limited, so use it wisely. Instead of vague answers (such as ‘we worked as a team and it all went well') give us a clear and specific example. What happened, what did you do, what was the outcome?
Neatness and spelling. Keep your application form clear and to the point. If we can't make it out, you may well lose out. Spelling in particular is an issue. Remember: the application system doesn't have a built-in spellchecker, so check it carefully yourself!
Availability. We'll give you the dates of any planned tests/assessment centre/interviews. Make sure you check those dates carefully. If you aren't available for one of the stages, then you should not apply. There's no skipping a step. Check your calendar as we cannot guarantee that you'll be able to change to another day. Timetables are carefully worked out and there are rarely spare spaces.
Stand out for the right reason! We will be most impressed if you have everything we ask for, presented in a clear and well-written way. Don't use your application to demonstrate your sense of humour because it may not be funny to everyone. An applicant once wrote, ‘Guess!' in answer to ‘When were you born?' Not helpful. Not short-listed.
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