When applying for an apprenticeship with us, you’ll go through a structured process, which will vary depending on what programme you’re applying for. As you’d expect, your first step is to complete the online application form. But what happens next?
Here we’ve put together a short guide detailing exactly how each process works - plus a few tips on how to prepare for each one.
How to get the best out of your application
Writing your application
Your answers to the questions on the application are critical to be shortlisted for the next stage, so it’s important you get it right.
Be clear on why you want to work for us and specifically as an apprentice. Don’t rush – we want to see that you’ve done your research, and really understand Lincolnshire Co-op. We'll also ask you some questions relating to the behaviours we think our apprentices need to have, including motivation, customer service and team work, so try to think of some good examples to help us understand more about you.
Make your application stand out – make full use of the word count wherever you can to show off why you’re the best candidate for the role.
Receive confirmation email
As soon as you send us your application, you’ll receive an automatic acknowledgement. Don’t worry if you don’t hear anything for a while after that, as the process can take up to a few months. We promise we’ll be in touch as soon as possible after weighing up each application.
Telephone interview
Depending on number of applications received you may be invited to talk to a member of the team in a telephone interview, prior to attending an assessment centre. Double-check you’ve given us the right phone number and you’re ready for our call. You’ll need your application, any questions and a notepad and pen to jot things down. Listen carefully to your interviewer, but don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. Be confident. If there’s quiet on the other end of the line, don’t worry. The interviewer is just making notes.
Remember, we’ve already seen your application and decided that we’re interested, so this is your chance to build on that positive start. We’re looking for someone who demonstrates a passion for the individual programme they're applying for, so make sure you do lots of research. We’ll be looking to hear examples from different areas of your life, both at work and outside, where you demonstrated problem-solving skills.
The assessment centre
After your telephone interview, we'll be in touch to let you know if we’d like you to come to our offices and take part in an assessment centre. Don’t feel daunted – it’s your chance to see if you’d like to work here. Just remember to be yourself. Come smart but comfortable – we don’t expect you to wear a suit, but think twice about wearing shorts, flip-flops, hoodies or trainers.
The format of your day with us will vary, depending on what you’ve applied for. But don’t worry, we’ll let you know what you need to prepare in plenty of time. The day could include:
Group discussion exercise: We want to see how you interact with others and if you perform well in a team. This means that you’ll need to make sure you contribute – whether you can be proactive without being domineering and if you can listen as well as contribute. Most of all, we want to see you shine and be yourself.
Individual interview: This will be in a similar format to the telephone interview.
Programme/business specific exercise: This is your chance to show us not only your passion for Lincolnshire Co-op and your chosen business area, but also what you can bring to us. You’ll be provided with all the information you need to complete this task on the day.
If you come to an assessment centre, we’ll always give you feedback on your performance and let you know when you can expect to hear back.
Offer
Congratulations you’ve done it! All your hard work and preparation has paid off and your career with us starts here. We will initially make a verbal offer over the telephone and follow this up with a written offer sent to your home address.
We hope this guide has been helpful but if you have any other questions about our apprenticeship programme or the application process you can email us at peopleandperformance@lincolnshire.coop
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