Recruitment of Policy Leaders Annual Campaign

[jumpinjulia]

This is for the Canadians in the room

Comments

Existing fed public servant more or less regarded?

[anonymous]

For the latest campaign (09-10), I have been invited to do the first interview in the coming months. This is a good news but like many applicants I am inundating myself with all sorts of questions.

As a current strategic policy analyst for a federal department, I wonder if the interview board would find it 'curious' that I am applying to the RPL program. Specifically, I am already an EC-05. As such, I wonder if they will rank my candidacy lower to provide space for others as the RPL does state that one objective is to bring in people who would otherwise not apply to the federal government.

Also, if anyone has done a RPL first interview and don't mind sharing bits of info, I'd be game to hear more. Info such as the composition of the interview board (i.e. analysts, HR or managers?), how long, strict question-based, preparation time, format, etc)

Much appreciated

D.

Re: Existing fed public servant more or less regarded?

[anonymous]

Just out of curiosity, what was your motivation in applying for the programme if you are already an analyst at a fairly high level?

Re: Existing fed public servant more or less regarded?

[anonymous]

If you see the end as a job, there's not much difference I suppose. I entered my current job through a competition for a specific department and file. But my field is not confined to my current department so getting access to federal senior executives to see what's possible is one attraction of RPL. Personally, I want to validate that what I have achieve has much more value government-wide than my current department. Recognition for being one of the best is crucial for me, so is building camaraderie with like-minded ambitious peers across the federal system. I am devoted to public service for life so why settle for less when there are opportunities to achieve much more?

I would still like to hear from others on my two questions in this thread. Thanks

D.

1st round interview

[anonymous]

Did you have a clear idea about where in government you wanted to work before you began the interview process?

I've been invited to a 1st round interview this fall, but am unsure how to prepare as my studies (liberal arts) are not directly related to any particular government ministry.

Re: 1st round interview

[anonymous]

The first round interview is hard...you can't predict what they are going to ask. You really need to have a good handle on what Canada's priorities are generally as well as with your specific field of study/work. Don't count on your interviewers being from your area of expertise, that's not always the case. I'd say more but we were asked to sign a confidentiality agreement. I did another interview for the Federal Gov't in an ES-04 position and they were equally strict. I think getting these positions is a good mix of luck and talent. If you've made it this far you look good on paper but so do all the other candidates, what makes you stand out? Good luck!

Re: 1st round interview

[anonymous]

There are no right or wrong answers in these interviews. As mentioned by other people above, it's a mix of several factors. Luck, knowledge, confidence, ethics, capacity to analyze and synthesize information in a short time, expressing yourself clearly, and yes... grace under pressure! Good luck!

Re: 1st round interview

[anonymous]

Has anyone had an interview yet for the 09/10 recruitment drive? I was selected for an interview in Toronto, and told that it would be held in December, but it is almost the 15th and still no schedule!

Preparing for the 1st Interview

[anonymous]

Hi everyone,

I know there are quite a few comments about the first interview, but there is still one issue that particularly confuses me. How would one prepare for an interview that is not linked to a specific department? If you go on the Public Service Commission of Canada website, there is a useful document called "How to get ready for the Job Interview" and almost all of the recommendations have to do with studying the structure and history of the department you are applying to. Should you have a department in mind during the first interview and study up on it? Or does someone have another approach?

Thanks!

Re: Preparing for the 1st Interview

[anonymous]

RPL candidates usually have analytical skills that can be applied in the context of a number of departments and positions. They have the capacity to analyze, summarize, prioritize and communicate information swiftly and efficiently, even if it is not directly related to their field of expertise. It can be a tough interview, but nothing that confidence, clear thinking, general knowledge of Gov. of Canada's policy environment and priorities, and a fair dose of caffeine cannot handle. Good luck!

Re: Preparing for the 1st Interview

[anonymous]

Can anyone advise specific websites/policies/departments I should read up on to demonstrate "knowledge of Canada’s public policy environment, its challenges and priorities"? That's a pretty broad category to be judged on and my area of specialization is fairly focused.

1st interview prep

[anonymous]

Can anyone advise specific websites/policies/departments I should read up on to demonstrate "knowledge of Canada’s public policy environment, its challenges and priorities"? That's a pretty broad category to be judged on and my area of specialization is fairly focused.

Re: 1st interview prep

[anonymous]

I am also in the process of preparing for the 1st interview. May plan is to consult with a number of policy people in government, and in particular in the department in which I foresee being placed. This I think is an efficient way to get the information you need as opposed to reading up on general information that may or may not be true in the context of your potential work environment.

Re: 1st interview prep

[anonymous]

I am also planning to focus my attention on departments in which I see myself being placed. Would this help?

Re: 1st interview prep

[anonymous]

Hi!
Could you pls. share those who have been selected for the 1st round of interview?
I was not selected. I have Canadian Ph.D. degree in science. I have more than five year industrial experience. Lots of Scientific publication/Patents……awards etc.
On campus, I had shaped many policies which are really enjoyed by current student and lot more.....

type of questions for 1st interview?

[anonymous]

Can anyone who has gone through the first round interview say if the questions are mostly of the situational judgment type or are based on your past experiences/abilities? (i.e. "tell me a time when you..."

Thanks!

Re: type of questions for 1st interview?

[anonymous]

It's good you preparing for 1st round of interview.

Can you share your education/background?

Re: type of questions for 1st interview?

[anonymous]

any tips on the interview? nature of questions etc