Tips for Joining RRC Polytech

Application

• RRC Polytech applies Inclusive Hiring Practices. When applying for a position, the applicable Inclusive Hiring Practice will be listed on the job posting.
• Applicants are required to complete the Inclusive Hiring Self-Identification Declaration screening question(s) within the job application process. While it is required to complete the Inclusive Hiring Self-Identification Declaration question in the application form, self-identification is voluntary, and applicants can choose to make a declaration or choose not to declare. An Inclusive Hiring Self-Identification Declaration question must be answered for every job application. Declarations will not carry over from one application to another.
• Our screening process involves looking at your application (resume and cover letter) to review your Self-Identification Declaration and your skills, knowledge and experience related to the role.
• Make sure to review the job posting carefully for skills, knowledge and experience that are required versus nice to have.
  • You will find “required” qualifications under the “Required Qualifications” section.
  • You will find “nice to have” qualifications under the “Assets” section.
• Ensure your resume and cover letter clearly demonstrate how you match the selection criteria.
  • TIP: Review your resume and cover letter for any errors and ensure it aligns with the requirements of the job posting. Ask a trusted individual for help if needed.
• A separate application is required if you are applying for more than one position.
• Each job posting has a closing date after which, applications are no longer accepted. Make sure you submit your application before midnight on the date the position posting closes.
• RRC Polytech is committed to ensuring diverse representation in our staff composition. Therefore, consider self-declaring in your cover letter if you are a woman, Indigenous Person, racialized person, a person with a disability or person of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Preparing for the Interview

• Prepare for your interview by researching common interview questions (including behavioral and situational questions).
• Research strategies for effectively answering behavioral and situational interview questions such as the STAR This will allow you to provide a detailed and focused answer.
  • Situation: Set the scene and give the necessary details of your example
  • Task: Describe what your responsibility was in that situation
  • Action: Explain exactly what steps you took to address it
  • Result: Share what outcomes your actions achieved
• Practice answering a few sample interview questions. The first time you answer a question, you will think of ways to improve your response. The more you practice the better your answers will become.
• Know the content of your resume so you can more easily speak about your skills, knowledge, and experience in the interview.
• Prepare a few of your best real-life examples, from your previous experience, to share when answering interview questions.
• If a presentation is required, practice presenting it and make sure to limit yourself to the time allocated for the presentation.

In-Person Interviews

• Plan to be at the interview early in case of traffic or unexpected commuting delays.
• Know the exact address and location of the RRC Polytech Campus you are attending as well as the building and room number of your interview.
• Review the information sent about parking options on site in advance.
• RRC Polytech campuses can be large (depending on location), it could take 5-10 minutes to find and walk to your interview room. Give yourself lots of time to get to your interview location.
• Know your recruitment contact’s telephone number or email address in case of a delay or problem.

Virtual Interviews

• Test the platform of the interview in advance and make sure to download/update software if needed.
• Choose a comfortable environment free of distractions to do your interview in.
• Check your lighting and background—place a source of light in front of you and avoid having sources of bright light behind you (such as a window) as this will make it hard for us to see you.
• Make sure to have a stable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone (computer, tablet, or mobile phone). Ensure your laptop, phone, or tablet has sufficient battery charge.
• Test your internet connection, camera, and microphone.
• Stay focused on the interview and remove any other distractions if possible (e.g. cell phone).
• Log into the interview a few minutes early in case of technical difficulties.
• Know your recruitment contact’s telephone number or email address in case of a delay or problem.

During the Interview

• Listen carefully to what the interviewer is asking you; ask for clarification if you are unsure what they are asking.
• We only use the answers from your interview questions to evaluate your interview. Please do not assume the interview panel knows anything regarding your experience and provide detailed answers.
• Take time to consider your answer. Feel free to have a notepad and pen with you to write down any information or to organize your thoughts.
• Talk clearly when answering questions.
• Be detailed and concise when explaining your skills, knowledge, and abilities.
• Answer the question that was asked and be careful to provide thorough responses.
• Support your answers with real-life examples that you’ve prepared from previous experience.

Tests/Assessments

Tests and assessments can be done as part of the screening or interview process. Test and assessments will assess at least one of the selection criteria from the job posting. These tests and assessments may include technological assessments, written assessments, oral presentations and/or technical lab assessments.

Candidates will be made aware of what assessments are included in the recruitment process. The timing of notification will vary based on the position and type of assessment that is to be completed.

Prior to starting your assessment or test, carefully read all instructions and materials to understand what is being asked and plan your time effectively. If you would like more information on the test or assessment process, you can request this information from the Human Resource Services.