Oral Interview timeline
Why a timeline?
As I mention in my book, after searching and reading various resources on securing a job in the federal government, I could not find one that offers an insiders’ guide on how to prepare for interviews in the Government of Canada.
The timeline that I am providing here, is exactly how I prepared and got chosen for numerous external and internal competitions. It is also how I advise my friends and their colleagues to prepare for their interviews.
Many job applicants prepare in a mediocre fashion for Government of Canada interviews. My approach consists of walking in to an oral exam prepared and observe as federal government hiring managers rapidly write down exactly what I am telling them because it what they wanted to hear. When I am done, I leave the interview, follow-up, and wait for my job offer. I believe in over preparing because this provides one with the confidence and knowledge you need to succeed every time.
Here is what you will need to do 2 weeks prior to your Government of
Canada interview
• Prepare reference letters and some examples of your written work. If you are asked to bring references, contact your references beforehand so that they are aware that someone from the Government may be communicating with them. Depending on the department, you may be provided with a template. If they do not ask for references, do not bring them.
• If you are a Post Seconday Recruitment (PSR) candidate and are in the process of finishing your degree, go to your academic dean and get a letter stating when is your expected date of graduation
and how many credits you have left to complete. If the position needs to be filled by a certain date, proving that you will be available is an advantage.
Competition in PSR is increasingly difficult, so any advantage that you can provde to Government of Canada hiring managers is to your advantage.
• Get a trim or a haircut. If necessary, change your hair colour to a conservative one. This gives you time to revisit the hair stylist should the colour or cut not come out as expected.
• Start studying for the interview. Your goal is to completely memorize all of the prepared information at least two days before the interview at the Government of Canada.
• Start thinking about what you would like to highlight about yourself in the interview based on the Statement of Merit Criteria, your education and your work experience.
In my book you will find more detailed steps that you will need to follow for success before going to your interview.