http://employability.shu.ac.uk/resources/Mike%20Simpson

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EMPLOYABILITY an Employers Perspective Mike Simpson Mott MacDonald Ltd

Introduction  − overview of the Mott MacDonald Graduate

recruitment process − skills and competencies − some examples − some conclusions − questions

About Mott MacDonald  − a management, engineering and development

consultancy − operating in 140 countries − 13,000 staff − multi-disciplinary professional services provider − placed 8th in the Sunday Times

’20 Best Big Companies to Work For’

2008 Graduate Intake (UK) ď §

Number of Graduates required

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247

Current offers made

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205

Applications received

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3,500

Recruitment Process ď §

Application

Interview

Offer

Application Form ď §

Qualifiers

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Differentiators -

appropriate degree to meet minimum standards set by professional institutions.

answers to the questions: Your Inspiration Your Career Choice

Application Form ď § Differentiators

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some examples

Career Choice  ‘Whilst at school architecture was my main spiration, however after a period of work experience I realised I was interested in the practical aspects of the building and decided to go into engineering. I feel Mott MacDobald provides the range of buildings to inspire me and pushes what is thought as possible.’

The Interview 

− testing for behaviours, skills and competencies

− about 1 hour long

Skills and Competencies ď § - communication

- flexibility/adaptability

- teamwork

- self awareness

- innovation

- motivation

- initiative

- interpersonal skills

- problem solving

- analytical skills

Example Questions  • Why does a career in consultancy appeal to you?

– communication – understanding

• What attracts you to Mott MacDonald?

– communication – initiative

Example Questions  • Which subjects of your degree did you find the

most interesting and why?

– self awareness – analytical skills

• What was the greatest challenge you faced whilst

completing your final year project?

– problem solving – flexibility/adaptability – innovation

Example Questions  • Can you tell me about a time when you’ve worked

as part of a team?

– teamwork – interpersonal skills

• Have you ever set yourself and achieved any

goals?

– initiative – motivation

Example Questions  • Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

– initiative – motivation – realism

• What are your interests outside University?

– socialiser – loner

Conclusions ď § - academic success is a Qualifier, not a

Differentiator - transferable skills, competencies and behaviours

are Differentiators - ability to communicate clearly and persuasively is

vital - employability is about research, skills, and seizing

the moment.

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QUESTIONS?

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www.mottmac.com