Attending the interview ... also, referencing question!

postbuster · Post by **postbuster** » 02 Aug 2017, 22:13

Evening guys!

The forum has been very helpful to me so far. After half a dozen apps, I've been offered an interview next week, woo!

However, I'm having trouble with work in trying to get the time off to attend and there is a chance that I might have to cancel the interview I've already booked with Royal Mail. I originally thought it wouldn't be a problem getting the time off.

Would this go against me for future apps? Once I've cancelled are they likely to not invite me back again ... I'd rather not blow my chance if this is the only one.

In terms of the pre-employment referencing as well. Is this for character references or just a case of confirming employment positions and dates? Just to have an idea (if I'm successful) when I need to speak with my current manager.

Cheers!

daveyg96 · Post by **daveyg96** » 03 Aug 2017, 08:59

Hi,

Personally I would just take the day sick. It could be a whole before a postion that suits you comes up. Even then you have to get an interview!. I am currently on day 7 of my pre-employment checks and I have not been asked to provide any references. My cv only stated "references available on request". Good luck :)

WalkingDad · Post by **WalkingDad** » 03 Aug 2017, 18:27

I'd agree with daveyg96 and just take the day off sick, that's what I did and I got the job. They didn't do any reference on me as far as I know, good luck!

postbuster · Post by **postbuster** » 03 Aug 2017, 19:06

I'll see what I can do and get myself prepared anyway!

So from my reading I'm assuming there are two main parts to the interview?

Competency questions: "give me an example ...", "tell me about a time ...", "how would you ..." etc.
Vehicle checks: handbrake, seat belts, visible outside damage, pedals, water and oil checks, cleanliness inside, mirrors set correctly - would be the main ones I guess.

Hoping this works out. I know the job will be tough. I've already started an exercise regime for it but the real test is those first few weeks. I can only assume it gets easier - hiking does after a while!

Mellican · Post by **Mellican** » 05 Aug 2017, 21:46

You didnt have to persevere for long then!
Re interview there's a thread or two on here about it which was helpful for me. Stuff like how did you deal with an irate customer, how do you deal with stress at work, think of a time when you have used health and safety guidelines in the workplace, what vehicle checks.
Into a month now and the heels are no longer sore...get good fitting trainers and all is good.
And i've found the posties in my DO, without exception, to be nothing but friendly and helpful to this newbie.
Good luck.

postbuster · Post by **postbuster** » 08 Aug 2017, 15:41

I think it went ok. It's always difficult to tell with these things. The best outcome is that I at least get on the waiting list. I would say this week sounds too early from what people on here are saying. Despite preparing for the competency questions it was still challenging to think on your feet but I managed to get through them all. I'd say the whole process was around 50 minutes.

Hopefully I get some good news next week.

postbuster · Post by **postbuster** » 16 Aug 2017, 13:14

So it was last Tuesday I had the interview. It was 11 people for 2 positions they were interviewing on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Realistically, how soon do you think they will they make a decision? I'm not worrying (yet) but wondered about getting in touch with HR at some point. But how long should you wait it out ...

Communication has been pretty good in the application process so far.