Taking the first step in your new career can be daunting, but the process of getting there doesn’t have to be! 

Our Talent Acquisition team sees many new trainees taking the first step into their future. As we are with them through every step, we have a few tips on how to make the most of your application process, from the start of writing your CV to the end of that final interview.

Typically, here at Shaw Gibbs, the hiring process follows a rough uniformity. The candidate will apply to our trainee roles via our website which will require them to submit a CV.

Following the success of this initial stage, trainees may need to complete an assessment before meeting for a final face-to-face interview. Following this outline, it may seem logical that our tips begin at the CV stage, however, the recruitment process for you as a candidate should start before you come to write your CV.

It may sound obvious to say, but preparation is key!

It may sound obvious but preparation is key! Make sure you have researched Shaw Gibbs, why do you want to work here specifically? This is not just about what you can offer the firm but also what the firm can offer you. Make sure you are also aware of the career pathways and qualifications necessary for the profession you are looking to join.

For example, if you are looking for an accountancy-based role, ensure you know what the AAT and ACCA training routes look like and how they may apply to you. No one expects you to have it all figured out straight away and you don’t need to know for certain where your career path leads, but being aware of your options shows that you are invested in your future career. The level of investment you display will make a firm more likely to want to invest in you. 

Once you’ve decided on the trainee role that best suits you, it’s time to apply.

Once you’ve decided on the trainee role that best suits you, it’s time to apply. The initial part of the recruitment process is largely centred around your CV — your passport to the rest of the process.

It is easy to forget that when CVs are sent, they are loaded onto specific recruitment systems. These systems can sometimes struggle to format jazzier-looking CVs.

Our advice? Keep it simple and clear.

When noting your experience on your CV, honesty is always the best policy.

Please do tell us the specific qualifications and grades you have achieved and where you achieved them, this includes degrees, A-levels, BTECs, GCSEs and other certificates that may be relevant to the role you are applying for.

You don’t have to tell us all of your GCSE results, but the core subjects of Maths, English and Science should be on your CV.

You’ve made it to interview… now what?

Remind yourself of your research into the company, what role you are applying for, and why you have applied. It sounds simple, but many people struggle to articulate their motivations for applying.

This can make them appear unprepared and disorganised.

Making notes is perfectly acceptable and shows that you have put time and effort into preparing for an interview, feel free to refer to any pre-written notes during the interview. Saying “May I please refer to my notes?” and adding to your notes during the interview shows that you are engaged and interested to learn more.

Don’t let technology get in the way of your success.

You’re through to the initial online interview. Your choice of equipment is important. Take the time to test the audio quality — we need to be able to hear you. Be mindful of your camera position, quiet background and connection.

Rest assured: we’re rooting for you!

Interviewing takes time and we think you are worthy of that time! Good interviewers will be sensitive to any nerves you may have; we don’t want you to feel uncomfortable or intimidated, we are rooting for you!