Applications and interviews

For many graduate roles, especially structured programs, recruitment happens in stages. You might submit an online application with a résumé and written answers, then complete online tests, record a video interview, attend a live interview and finally join an assessment centre with group activities. Smaller employers may simply ask for a résumé and cover letter followed by one interview. Either way, each stage is a chance to show the same thing: that you understand the role and can do it well.

The guides in this section walk through each stage, with practical steps you can take to prepare. They are written for Australian applicants and draw on government careers advice, but every employer is different, so always follow the instructions in the listing you are applying for.

Guides in this section

• Writing a graduate résumé: structure, what to include when you have little work experience and how to tailor it.
• Cover letters and selection criteria: writing a letter that gets read and answering criteria with strong examples.
• Online tests and video interviews: what to expect from screening tests and recorded interviews, and how to prepare.
• Interviews and assessment centres: behavioural questions, panel interviews, group exercises and following up.

Quality over quantity

It is tempting to send the same application to dozens of employers. But generic applications rarely stand out. Recruiters can usually tell when a résumé or cover letter has not been adapted to their role. A smaller number of carefully tailored applications, each one showing you have read the listing and understand what the organisation does, is usually far more effective.

Tailoring does not mean starting from scratch every time. Keep a master résumé and a bank of examples, then adjust the order, emphasis and wording for each role. Use the language of the job advertisement where it honestly describes your experience.

Build a bank of examples

Almost every stage of graduate recruitment asks you to describe times you have shown particular skills: working in a team, solving a problem, handling pressure, communicating clearly, showing initiative or learning something quickly. Before you start applying, write down a set of short stories from your study, part-time work, volunteering, sport, clubs or caring responsibilities. For each one, note the situation, what you did and what happened as a result.

With this bank ready, you can answer written questions, selection criteria and interview questions more quickly and with better examples. Many graduates underestimate experiences such as retail or hospitality work, which often demonstrate customer service, reliability and working under pressure.

Read the instructions carefully

Small mistakes in applications are common and avoidable. Check the word limits, required documents, file formats and closing date, time and time zone. Make sure you are using the correct employer and role name in every document. Save copies of your answers, because you may be asked about them later in an interview. If something is unclear, contact the person named in the listing.

Be honest

Never exaggerate qualifications, grades or experience. Employers may check transcripts, contact referees and ask detailed questions about anything you have written. Honesty also helps you find roles that genuinely suit you, which matters for your long-term satisfaction.

Getting feedback

Feedback on applications is valuable. Careers services, mentors and friends in your chosen field can review your résumé and answers before you submit. After an unsuccessful interview, it is reasonable to ask politely for feedback. Not every employer will provide it, but when they do, it can help you improve next time.

Watch out for fake interviews

Scammers sometimes run fake "interviews" through chat apps to make an offer look genuine, then ask for personal identity documents or payment. Scamwatch notes that real recruiters will not move your conversation to an encrypted messaging platform. If an interview process feels unusual, verify the employer independently before sharing documents.

Adjustments and accessibility

If you have a disability or health condition that affects how you complete tests, interviews or assessment activities, you can ask the employer about adjustments, such as extra time, an alternative format or an accessible venue. Many employers state in their listing how to request adjustments. You decide what you disclose and when.

A simple weekly routine

During busy application periods, a routine helps. Set aside regular blocks of time for researching employers, tailoring applications and practising for interviews, and keep a list of closing dates in one place. Review your progress at the end of each week, note what you have learned from any feedback and adjust your approach. Small, steady effort is easier to sustain than last-minute bursts the night before a deadline.

Learn from every stage

Each application, test and interview teaches you something, even when the outcome is disappointing. Keep brief notes on the questions you were asked, what went well and what you would change, and review them before your next application.

Key points

• Graduate recruitment often happens in stages; prepare for each one.
• Tailor every application to the role, using a master résumé and an example bank.
• Follow instructions exactly, including word limits and closing times.
• Be honest about qualifications and experience.
• Seek feedback before and after applications, and ask about adjustments if you need them.