Every single year, thousands of students embark on the journey of applying for graduate programs or entry-level roles at their dream companies. In this very competitive landscape, it is super important that you not only understand the process but also prepare as early as possible. Whilst every company is a little different, many of the large graduate programs follow a similar high-level process.
We've simplified the different stages of the graduate recruitment process below so you can ace your application when the time comes:
1. Research
From a student's perspective, there are so many different options when it comes to choosing a company you want to apply or work for. The research stage is extremely valuable because it can help you understand which companies are better aligned with your passions, skills and personality.
Spending the time to research early will benefit you down the track - providing you great talking points for your cover letter or your interviews.
2. Online Application - Application Tracking Systems (ATS)
Once you've found the companies you want to apply for, it's time to submit your online application. Make sure you have a recently updated CV ready to go by the time applications start coming out.
Whilst CVs have standardised layout and detail, a cover letter needs to be tailored to different companies and positions.
3. Psychometric Assessments
Psychometric testing is used very frequently by companies to test a number of personality traits and cognitive abilities. They often come in the form of online games which can range from questionnaires to reasoning, problem-solving and maths exercises.
4. Video and Phone Interviews
First round interviews are often a phone interview or a digitally recorded video interview.
A phone interview is a great way for recruiters to get to know you a bit more than what they know from your online application. The point of the call is to usually confirm their decision to progress you to the next stage or to find out a little bit about you and your motivations, so make sure you have an elevator pitch ready!
Digitally recorded interviews are much more common in recruitment processes and are quite difficult to adjust to. Whilst it can be strange to be by yourself and talking into your webcam, it is a good chance to show more of your personality and who you are. If you want to excel, make sure you are well prepared and do some practice beforehand!
5. Assessment Centre & Final Interviews
Assessment centres are used by large companies as the final stage of their application process and will involve two key components:
- Group Interview - This tests how well you work in a group environment and with people you haven't worked with before. Managers and recruiters are in charge of assessing candidates.
- Individual Interview - The final individual interviews can be with the manager you will be working with or even a partner from the division you've applied for.
The more familiar you get with this process, the more success you'll have with your applications. Keep an eye out for our more in-depth articles (coming soon) about each stage to get some more specific advice and learn about the finer details!