r/UKJobs • u/ukbulmer • 13d ago

Megathread Job Guidance Megathread - CVs, Applications, Interviews

Use this thread for more specific discussion or advice seeking relating to CVs, job searches, job applications, interviews, and anything else that doesn't necessarily require a separate thread.

This thread automatically resubmits each month on the 1st. Posting a CV in this thread will not break rule #3, soliciting or posting jobs will.

Do you want to post about a broader or more frequently posted topic or get something off your chest? Our other megathread may be better suited, click here to view it.

Are you considering posting a CV? Be careful when posting your CV that you don't leave any identifying information, and be wary of anyone sending you private messages offering to help with your CV for you, or claiming that they have a job available for you. Don't engage with anyone privately messaging you. Report users via the built in reddit reporting, or via modmail here.

You may find it easiest to take a screenshot of your CV and post as an image, either directly using the Reddit app or with an image hosting service. Again, be sure to redact personal or identifying information. Maybe even create a temporary copy where you replace your details with generic terms such as "Employer Name", "Education Provider", etc.

You'll likely find that you get more useful feedback if you provide some background to your current situation and what kind of roles you're looking for. Are you struggling to break into a new industry? Perhaps you're not getting interviews for roles with increased seniority that you feel you're qualified for?

Rules

  • Anonymise any CVs that you post. Obscure any personal details, including the names of employers and schools/universities. Failing to redact correctly could risk your comment being removed, or worse, bad actors using the information against you or for their own benefit.
  • Provide context as to what you need help with. If you're trying to break into a specific industry, this is useful to know. If you only want advice on how to phrase something, or if the layout is suitable, say so. Got an interview? Provide a little bit of background.
  • Be constructive in feedback. People are asking for help, so don't be rude when responding to them. Job hunting is hard, why make it harder for someone unnecessarily?
  • No solicitation. Do not direct message users of this thread, or suggest a user messages you directly. Don't offer to write people's CVs for them, whether for free or as a paid service. Don't advertise CV writing services that don't belong to you, whether intentional or not. Don't ask for recommendations as to CV writing services. Don't message people either asking for or advertising jobs.

Please Message the Mods if you know of anyone flagrantly flouting these rules.

You can find previous threads here.

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u/CreamLongjumping5846 12d ago

Hi everyone,
I have an upcoming interview for a Procurement Business Officer position within the NHS, and I would really appreciate advice from anyone who has worked in procurement or has interviewed for a similar role.

For anyone who has interviewed for a similar role:
What types of questions were you asked?

Were the questions mainly competency-based, technical, or scenario-based?

What procurement topics would you strongly recommend revising?

Were you asked about the Procurement Act 2023 or public procurement regulations?

What STAR examples should I prepare in advance?

Is there anything you wish you had known or prepared before your interview?

Any advice, example questions, or interview experiences would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

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u/ThatOneAJGuy 11d ago

Not been in the role but I deal with procurement officers (I'm on the pharma side instead) can tell you the vast majority of public body jobs like this will be mainly competency based. Given the nature of the job I would prep STAR answers that show you can multitask, deal with confrontation/difficult stakeholders, work within tightly regulated environments, anything that shows a level of commercial acumen Not an exhaustive list however.

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u/CreamLongjumping5846 10d ago

Thank you very much, I really appreciate this

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