Students to take part in IoD Work Shadowing interviews

James Qualtrough | March 13, 2013 | 0 Comments

OVER 50 students will be taking part in mock interviews at KPMG’s office in Jersey on 18 and 19 March, as part of the Institute of Directors (IoD) Work Shadowing scheme.

The students will face three-person interview panels made up of representatives from the IoD, KPMG (the sponsor of the initiative) and Careers Jersey.

The first ten minutes of the interviews will run much like a real interview, with applicants questioned on points from their CV and covering letter. Following this, the panel provides immediate feedback, including constructive criticism of their written application for the scheme itself and their conduct and presentation during the interview.

“The interviews are an invaluable part of the work shadowing scheme and this is a unique opportunity for students to not only practice their interview skills, but receive real and immediate feedback –something which they may not have the chance to experience again,” said Heidi Gibaut, chair of the Education and Training Sub-Committee.

Sue Walsh of Careers Jersey said the interviews are very professional and a good way of assessing the students’ potential.

“They give a good indication of how well a student can cope in a corporate environment and if they can provide considered opinions. We discuss their previous achievements, work experience and career aspirations and aim to provide very honest and constructive feedback.

“This is something that students will ask for during job interviews later in life, but it is unlikely they will receive it at this level,” said Mrs Walsh.

Following the mock interviews, the students are assessed and paired with one of the scheme’s participating employers for the weeklong work shadow. This is designed to give students the opportunity to gain valuable managerial skills and business insight, by shadowing managers from a wide range of local organisations.

“We already have over 40 local businesses participating from a variety of sectors. These include the finance industry, the civil service, construction, retail and the legal sector; there is something for everyone and the students are guaranteed to have an interesting experience,” said Mrs Gibaut.

“It is brilliant that we have the support of KPMG. The firm makes the crucial mock interview process possible by providing the venue and members of its management team. It helps make the interviews feel real.”

Jason Laity, managing director of KPMG in the Channel Islands and also the chair of the Institute of Directors, said the firm looks forward to the scheme each year.

“The initiative is not only a huge benefit for the students involved, but is also a great experience for our staff. Last year was very successful and the feedback from students and our senior management team was extremely positive.”

The IoD Work Shadowing scheme runs yearly and encourages year 12 students across all of the island’s schools and colleges to get involved.