I thought I'd summarise my telephone interview experience with BP for anyone who is in the same boat. Maybe you'll get some tips! Here's what happened"
She introduced herself. Told me a little bit about herself and asked me to do the same. She explained that she was also part of the graduate recruitment process and that she knew “exactly what I was going through.” She also mentioned that she would be making notes, so if she’s quiet I shouldn’t worry. She also said that she’ll ask me a few questions and that she expects an example as part of the answer.
[mod edit - discussion of specific interview questions is against TSR rules.]
She then informed me that she has asked me all the questions that she wanted to. She then gave me info on how it was going to work from here on – the recruitment process has slightly changed. There is now no assessment centre (AC) anymore – “If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to an online personality survey and then a technical interview. After this, if you’re successful, you will be made an offer.”
She thanked me for my time – which was a bit awkward as I was planning to thank her (I did so anyway) and asked me if I had any questions. The only questions I had was the recruitment process, which she had already explained, and when I could expect feedback on the interview. She assured me that “after we’ve interviewed everyone and made a decision on who’d progress” then they’d give feedback. She said this would be within a week from today -21 August 2013.
She was very professional and gave no indication whatsoever about whether she agreed/disagreed with any of my answers.
When I thanked her, I also repeated once again my great interest with BP and that it would be an amazing honour to work with them.
She then said “thank you for sharing that with me” - And then we greeted each other and the conversation was over.
I answered everything as summarised, yet factual as possible. I was completely honest with her throughout the interview. It was scheduled for 30 minutes but we ended up only speaking for 21 minutes.
I guess if I don’t succeed past this stage, it will be better for everyone as it must mean that I’m not suited for the position and that I would probably not have been happy working there anyway.
If the answer is no, of course I’m going to be disappointed – and very much so – but I’m sure there are great other opportunities as well.
I think the interview went really great, though. I was very nervous, but I’m sure she understands that. My nervousness didn’t really affect my ability to answer the questions and I became more relaxed as the interview progressed.
But hey! What will be will be. I just hope this quick summary of my interview will help others in similar situations to be prepared for the types of questions that might be asked and the overall tone of the interview itself.
Good luck to my fellow slightly-nervous and excited interviewees! All of the best!