Graduate selection process
Below outlines our graduate selection process. Please use the links for each stage for more information and for some useful tips on completing each stage effectively.
Stage 2
Psychometric Tests (Numerical & Verbal)
Stage 1 – Online Application Form
Our online application form allows us to ensure all applicants meet our basic criteria before you commit to completing the application form. You will be given 21 days to complete your application from the date you start it, after which your application will be withdrawn. The time it takes to complete is entirely dependant on the effort you put into it and the depth of your answers.
Tips
- Answer all questions in full with as much information as you feel relevant
- Research the Atkins Group before completing your application
- Provide strong reasoning for your business selections
- Consider your location choices thoroughly before selecting
- Provide your A-Levels or equivalent qualifications & results
- List only the degree modules relevant to the business(es) you are applying to
Stage 2 – Psychometric Tests
This consists of a numerical and verbal test for which you are given 20 minutes and 18 minutes respectively to complete. You will be given 14 days to complete the tests after being sent the link, after which your application will be withdrawn. This allows us to assess your numerical and verbal comprehension competence against the 10,000+ applications we receive annually. You will have the option of completing practice questions for each test which we would strongly encourage you to do. The practice tests will help you to prepare for the real test by familiarising you with the format of the questions and how to answer them.
Tips
- Take the time to do the practice questions
- Set aside enough time with no noise or distractions around you
- Use our online tests frequently asked questions to ensure your internet browser is compatible
Stage 3 – Telephone Interview
Your interview will be conducted over the telephone with one of our Graduate Recruiters, and will take in the region of 25-35 minutes. You will be asked to book a convenient slot for you via our graduate website. The interview is centred on your degree(s) and motivations for applying to Atkins and your chosen business area(s).
Tips
- Do your preparation and ensure you have no distractions around you during the interview
- Take the opportunity to ask us questions…
Stage 4 – Graduate Assessment Centre
Your assessment centre will in the vast majority of cases be held in the office to which you are applying, but for our smaller regional offices this isn’t always possible. The assessment day usually takes place between 9am-4pm and similarly to the telephone interview you will be asked to book your slot via your Atkins account.
This is very much a two way assessment giving you the opportunity to learn more about the business through a presentation, meet some of our graduates and managers from the business area you are applying to, and also get a feel for the office. In terms of the assessments you will have a technical interview with one or two managers from the business to which you are applying – some businesses will also include a short technical written exercise. You will also complete several behavioural exercises designed to assess the competencies we look for in our graduates across the whole of the Atkins Group.
For those requiring accommodation or flights this should be done though our graduate team at graduates@atkinsglobal.com and a claim form will be provided on the day for any other reasonable expenses incurred.
Tips
- Research the business you are being assessed for thoroughly
- Revisit your relevant degree module notes
- Plan your journey to ensure you arrive on time – we cannot emphasise this strongly enough!!
- Do treat the day as a two way assessment - this is your opportunity to find out more about Atkins and assess whether we are the right choice for you
- Take the opportunity to ask any questions whether it be technical or the office social activities
Stage 5 – Offers & Regrets
We aim to communicate our decisions post assessment centre within 5 working days. All candidates will be contacted via telephone and provided with their appropriate feedback. There are three possible outcomes resulting from the assessment centre:
- Offered! – paperwork will be issued as swiftly as possible, after which start dates will be agreed should you wish to accept our offer
- Passed to your next business choice – if you pass your behavioural exercises but fail your technical this is your next option, however this is entirely dependant on your second or third choice business areas (if you are not already being assessed for these businesses) having not filled their relevant vacancies
- Regretted – unfortunately if you fail one or more behavioural exercises we cannot take your application any further for that particular recruitment cycle. You can however apply to our next recruitment cycle when applications open