Consider if the applicants meet the essential criteria of the role profile from what they have put on the application form. Care leavers are guaranteed an interview.
If someone applies for a job who has already completed an apprenticeship or degree then you should ask the talent development team if the candidate can be shortlisted. In general, if the previous apprenticeship or degree is within a different occupational area then the application can progress.
All those candidates who consider that they are disabled must be shortlisted if they meet the essential criteria of the job. This is part of our commitment to the Disability Confident scheme.
Don't be overly influenced by the level of literacy or fluency with which the application form has been completed. Some applicants may not be able to complete the form without help. This is acceptable and reasonable adjustments are appropriate to enable an applicant to participate in the selection process.
Record your shortlisting decisions fully so that you can justify your decisions and provide valuable feedback.
Tailor your interview approach to the level and type of apprenticeship for which you are interviewing. Be mindful that some candidates may have little experience of formal interviews and a conversational style would be appropriate. The overall aim is to get the best from candidates in order that you can assess their suitability for the post.
Be careful not to place undue emphasis on knowledge of the council's policies and procedures, such knowledge can be acquired once in post. A positive attitude and underlying ability to learn is more important when it comes to an apprenticeship. Some attributes are difficult to train people in – for instance being able to build rapport with people, or possessing a keen ability to learn new things.
You should check that the candidate fully understands the requirements of the apprenticeship.
Unsuccessful candidates may request feedback by telephone or written reasons for their non-selection to provide them with constructive information to help them with future applications. It is important that you give this proper attention so that this is meaningful and helpful in order that the candidate can improve in future.