Have you got your A-level results and are thinking about a career with the NHS? Here are some top tips for applying for a role with NBT:
Filling out the application
- Know the title of the role you're applying for, and read the job description and person specification thoroughly. It sounds obvious, but there's nothing worse than spending ages on an application only to find you've missed something essential!
- Don't rush your application! It might be tempting to copy and paste the same responses so you can get through more applications, but employers can spot generic responses. Read each question thoroughly, take the time to tailor your answers to the job description, and include details of your qualifications and work experience. If you don't have any yet, extracurricular activities, volunteering and relevant hobbies are also great ways to showcase your skills and abilities.
- Don't ignore the 'supporting information” section - this is a chance to really sell why you're the right person for the job by including specific examples that follow the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
- If you need to emphasise any key information, use headings or bold text. Don't use all capitals - IT LOOKS LIKE YOU'RE SHOUTING! You should also proofread your application one last time before you send it off to catch any typos or grammatical errors. You can also ask a trusted friend or family member to look it over before you hit 'Submit' - sometimes others spot things we don't.
- Check your junk/spam folder! Sometimes messages get diverted and you don’t want to miss any important replies.
If you are offered an online interview
- Make sure you have the correct software needed for the interview, and make sure your device is fully charged and that your microphone and camera are working. If you have access to headphones, this will help cut down background noise and ensure your interviewer can hear you properly.
- Make sure you’re dressed as professionally as you would for a face to face interview – just because it’s online doesn’t mean you can dress casually.
- Blur your screen or use a professional-looking background. This will help the interviewer focus on you and what you are saying rather than what’s going on behind you.
- Make sure you’re logged in and ready in advance of the interview time slot – there’s nothing worse than a forced software update two minutes before your interview!
- If possible, use a laptop or tablet and keep it on a level surface with your face in the centre of the screen. If you need to use a phone, avoid moving around during the interview.
- If you have a sudden tech failure - don’t panic! Make sure you have a contact number to hand so you can phone up and explain what’s happened.
If you are offered a face-to-face interview
- Plan your commute and make sure you know where your interview will be held - check parking/bus details in advance and allow plenty of time to get there.
- Consider your footwear – there may be a long walk from the front door to the interview room, and maybe even a tour of the workplace and you definitely don’t want to be hobbling along in high heels!
- Present yourself as a professional - grab a coffee on the way out and not the way in! No chewing gum or checking your phone during the interview. Also advisable to silent your phone in advance
- Make sure you know what type of interview it is – as there are many different types of face to face interviews/ in person job interviews and although it will usually be a sit down chat, it could be that you have to prepare a presentation, task, assessment centre with other candidates or interview with a panel.
General interview tips
- Be prepared to talk about yourself a bit - any hobbies, experience and interests outside of your work show that you’re well-rounded. It’s also helpful to mention why you are interested in the role or the organisation.
- You should never be asked to share personal information, eg, whether you are married or have children.
- If you go blank, just ask for the question to be repeated or say something like ‘That’s a good question, let me think about that for a second.’ It’s OK to be nervous, and a good interviewer will want to give you the chance to be at your best - they won’t mind giving you a second or repeating something.
- Do some research into the organisation and have a couple of questions ready to ask at the end of the interview, such as ‘What would a typical day look like in this role?’ or ‘How would you describe your organisation’s culture?’
- This is your moment in the spotlight – don’t be afraid to show how awesome you are.
After getting your offer
- Let your referees know they will be hearing from your new employer and ask them to respond to reference checks as soon as they can.
- Keep checking your spam folder – there will be lots of messages about your pre-employment paperwork and checks.
- Respond to any messages as soon as you can. If you are not sure about anything, ask for someone to explain what’s required.
- You will be asked to provide proof of your right to work in the UK, and some roles will involve a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Make sure you can provide your passport or any other ID required.
- Will you need a uniform or any specific items before you start? Find out what these are and make arrangements in good time.
For more career tips and opportunities, visit our careers pages