Recruitment process

No two graduate schemes are the same, so recruitment processes can vary.

Our example can show you the basics of what you can expect and we also have specific information about Reckitt Benckiser's recruitment process for graduates.

As with most assessment methods for roles, you need to be successful in each phase to move on to the next.

At RB, like many other firms, the process has been carefully designed to ensure you’re right for us and we’re right for you.

The recruitment process is driven by the desire to find that right person for the job. Here is an insight into a typical process to help you on the way to be that person.

Step 1: Initial screening

Once your application is received this is where the process begins

It is usually screened against a set of essential criteria and core values to determine whether there is a cultural fit between you and the organisation.

You might also be invited to take part in a telephone interview or a psychometric test at this stage, to gain greater insight into the information you’ve provided.

REMEMBER: Don't lie. Later on in the process you may be asked about what you've said. If you've embellished but can't back it up, you'll be found out. Just being yourself should be enough if you're the right person.

Step 2: Initial interview

Congratulations! A lot of people fall at the first hurdle but you've made it past the first step.

This interview will be your first face-to-face contact with the company (or this may be the stage where the phone interview takes place).

They are as much about you getting to know the company as they are the company seeing if you're a good fit.

Read more interview tips

Step 3: Assessment centre

The core objective of assessment centres is to practically assess your capabilities.

Assessments are generally standardised to give each individual an equal chance to stand out from the crowd and make their mark.

Things you can expect at an assessment centre could be:

icebreaker tasks or introductions
group exercises
written tests or case studies
preparations (which you may or may not have been asked to prepare before the day)
timed interviews by one or more people

How to get through it

Arrive on time and in the right place: It's the easiest way to ruining the rest of your day if you don't.
Smile and be positive and enthusiastic. Yes, even for the parts you're not sure you can do.
Do your research. Scour the company's website and read all about them.
Prepare any set tasks fully.
Bring your application and any notes you made during interviews with you. You'll almost certainly be asked about them.
Be a team player. There's always somebody that talks over everyone and another who sits in the corner keeping quiet. Contribute as much as you can without being over-bearing and you'll still get noticed. By the same token, don't be shy. It's your chance to shine: get involved.
Read and listen carefully. If you show you can follow instructions it can only be a good thing.

What are they looking for?

You're likely to be assessed on:

ability to work as part of a team
communication
decision-making
leadership skills
time-management skills
lateral thinking
international mindset
listening skills
initiative
motivation
enthusiasm
creativity

Step 4: Final interview

You have managed to excel your way past other candidates and you are down to the final stage. You have already proven your skills to the company and now is the last chance to show them the ‘real you’ that is perfect for that job.

Before you go

Do more research on the employer: Go beyond online and look through news sites and publications. Immerse yourself completely. After all, this could be your career.
Look back over your application form and resumé. Think how you can expand on anything you've said there. Also, try and think of a few further examples of how you have achieved the kind of goals they would expect from their ideal candidate.
Make notes after the interview. You should make sure you get something out of your time dedicated to getting this role.
Ask for feedback. If you don't get the job- or even if you do- ask for some constructive feedback that can help you with your next application.

Read more interview tips

Good luck!