When applying for one of our vacancies, 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. Don’t rush – we want to see that you’ve done your research, and really understand Lincolnshire Co-op. We’ll also ask you about your skills and experience, so try to think of some good examples to help us understand why you believe you are the right person for the role
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 some time. We promise we’ll be in touch as soon as possible after weighing up each application.
Pre-screening
Depending on number of applications received you may be invited to talk to a member of the team in a telephone interview. 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.
You may also be asked to complete a series of assessments before we decide who we’d like to bring through to the main interview. We will select these based on what would be relevant to the role you have applied for and will ask for these to be completed by a specific date. Don’t worry, we’ll make sure that you’re given all the information you need to access and complete these within the given timescales.
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 role 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 main interview
If your application is successful by this stage, we'll be in touch to arrange an interview with you. Don’t feel daunted – just remember to be yourself and always remember to dress according to the role you’re applying for.
Your interview with us could take many forms, which could be anything from a face-to-face meeting, a video call or even an assessment centre. The format will depend mainly on the role that you have applied for. But don’t worry, we’ll let you know what you need to prepare in plenty of time. Your interview 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: In most cases, you should expect to be interviewed by two colleagues – usually the Recruiting Manager and someone who will be taking notes, but they may also ask some questions throughout the process.
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.
For any interview, we’ll always seek to give 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 the application process, you can email us at p&performance@lincolnshire.coop.
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