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Selection process hints and tips

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Applications tips

  • Making your application shouldn’t take too long if you’re prepared. We recommend you complete your application on a laptop or desktop rather than a phone. Before you start, make sure your CV is up to date and ready to submit.  
  • Your CV should work backwards from your most recent work experience or education, so what you’ve been doing most recently is the first thing we see. For your work experience, include your responsibilities, job title and achievements.  
  • Make sure you include dates of all of your education, work experience and previous employers as well. And keep it concise – your CV shouldn’t be longer than two pages.

Online assessment tips

Once you’ve submitted your application, you may be asked to take some online assessments to identify whether you have the right skills for the role you’ve applied to. You’ll be provided full instructions in the email inviting you to participate, which will include how long you have to complete the assessments. You’ll have a few days in which to do it so make sure you set aside a time when you can concentrate fully on the task at hand.  

  • Manage your time: Most online assessments are timed. Get comfortable with answering questions quickly and accurately. Learn to move on if you get stuck on a difficult question, as time is of the essence. 
  • Create a suitable environment: Find a quiet and distraction-free space to take the assessment. Ensure you have a reliable internet connection and that your computer or device is fully charged. 
  • Read instructions carefully: Take your time to understand the instructions for each assessment. Different tests may have specific rules or requirements. 
  • Stay calm and focused: Don’t let time pressure or difficult questions overwhelm you, the assessments are used to assess your skills not there to catch you out.  
  • Avoid distractions: Ensure that notifications on your device are turned off, and you won’t be interrupted during the assessment. 
  • Practice first: Some assessments will have practice question, take the opportunity to do these first.

Interview tips

Because we believe in diversity, we won’t ask everyone the same question. Instead, we’ll get to know you to understand if you’re the right fit for us and we’re the right fit for you. Things you can do to prepare for your interview:  

  • Remind yourself of what’s in your application, as we’ll start with questions about your background and experience  
  • Always be yourself. We want to get to know you. Be ready to explain to us why you want to work with us.  
  • Be confident and share your passions, what you hope to achieve from the role, and what you’ll do afterwards.  
  • Demonstrate what you, and only you, will bring to the role. This is your opportunity to stand out. You can share a story or experience that challenged you, and how you overcame that challenge. It doesn’t need to be finance related.  
  • Be prepared with questions you’d like to ask us.  You can ask us anything, we love hearing your questions about the role and the company. 

Assessment day tips

Assessment days are designed to evaluate candidates comprehensively, so remember to showcase your skills, teamwork abilities, and positive attitude throughout the process. Even if you don’t succeed this time, view it as a valuable learning experience for future opportunities.

  • Be prepared: Research the assessment day format and the specific exercises you’ll be facing. Understand the competencies and skills the employer is looking for in candidates.
  • Dress for the day: Present yourself in a polished and professional manner. Follow any dress code guidelines provided by the employer.
  • Arrive early: Plan your journey in advance and aim to arrive early on the assessment day. Being punctual shows your commitment and reliability.
  • Stay positive and confident: Keep a positive attitude throughout the day and approach each exercise with confidence. Believe in your abilities and stay composed under pressure.
  • Engage with others: Interact with your fellow candidates respectfully and professionally. Assessors often observe how candidates interact with one another.
  • Listen carefully: Pay close attention to instructions provided by assessors for each exercise. Make sure you fully understand what is expected of you.
  • Be yourself: While it’s essential to showcase your skills, don’t try to be someone you’re not. Be authentic and let your true personality shine through.

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  • our Culture and Values

    Our culture and values

    Find out more about the purpose that underpins everything we do at Standard Chartered, and the behaviours and culture that drive this purpose forward. 

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  • Application zone

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    Ready to apply? Find out what happens next in our application zone, including hints and tips to make sure you’re fully prepared for interviews and assessment centres.