Firstly I'd like to thank this forum and its members/admin for all the information that is supplied here. A quick search has answered all the questions I had so my need to post has been zilch. Until now.
I received an email yesterday with my formal offer and a start date - I didn't want to post until I knew I had it in the bag and now I do!
I thought I'd detail my application process as others have been helpful to me. I am (was) self-employed so the length of time it took didn't bother me but I can imagine how frustrating it is to those who have to give notice.
Anyway, here it is:
24th May - applied for the role via the website and completed the two online tests
4th June - received an email offering me to attend an interview
6th June - attended the interview (it said interviews were to be conducted on the 6th of June on the job advert but I'd given up hope by the 4th, it seemed a bit rushed!)
15th June - received a congratulatory email with a conditional offer
22nd June - driving licence information requested
26th June - digital photo requested for ID and email stating that they had submitted my details for the pre-employment checks
28th June - formal offer with induction and start dates
3rd July - email containing offer letter
6th July - received my contract in the post
From what I've read this is quick so please take it with a pinch of salt. I know I'm lucky but it might be down to my lack of notice period and being in the same job for 17 years, not much to check!
If you have any questions. feel free to ask