Critical Software Technologies Ltd

Your experience of completing the paperwork

The paperwork was not too difficult to complete. I didn’t feel any part of it  was unnecessary or not adequately explained.

How the CVs and covering letters were submitted to you

This process worked well – I guess we only would have hoped for more CV’s to choose from.

The calibre of graduates applying for the role

Half of the candidates CV’s sent to us had skill sets which were applicable for the role and the calibre of those interviewed was extremely high.

The interview process

Candidates do need to be given more guidance on how to interview well. In all cases we provided interview feedback but not all employers would dothis.

How this scheme differs from the way you normally recruit

Being the subsidiary of a Portuguese company, we are often asked to host Portuguese interns, the majority of whom wish to return to Portugal on   completion of their internship. Recruiting from potential future UK employees could help us save on recruitment costs and training time.

How can we improve our service?

I can’t think of anything specific, other than potentially running job advertisements for a slightly longer time in order to attract more candidates.

What advice would you provide candidates when applying for jobs?

Graduates need to sell their skills based on what they can do rather than what they have done (experience) and I think this needs to be emphasised to the candidates. We don’t expect work experience and candidates shouldn’t feel the need to apologise for not having any, but we do want to hear about what their aspirations are and what they are capable of.

Any other thoughts or comments

We have been very lucky to find a phenomenal intern, it has given us confidence in using the scheme going forward.

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