I was interviewed online by a panel of 3 (one HR rep) No pleasantries, not a single smile and it felt very cold and robotic. The interview consisted of competency questions which are pretty standard and the interview was scheduled for 1.5hrs. From the offset I felt like the panel were disengaged and didn’t appear to want to be there . The HR rep kept interrupting me whilst I attempted to give examples using the STAR model, this was so off putting and rude and unless you are waffling or running over (which I wasn’t) this is really poor practice. Despite being under time I felt rushed. No opportunity given to showcase skills and experience because it was so scripted. It was such an unpleasant experience, I couldn’t wait for it to end. The interview format and behaviours shown are unlikely to set the candidate up for success nor would I consider a role at HS2 based on this experience. Was also very surprised by no safety leadership or EDI related questions - both extremely important within this industry.

The interview consisted of one 60 minute competency based interview made up of a panel (HR, the hiring manager and a project manager). The interview felt quite robotic as the panel have to ask the same questions to all candidates, take verbatim notes and display no emotion. There was no opportunity to get to know the panel and didn't feel like a 2 way conversation. The interview could have been easily done by a computer. After a few days I was told another candidate got the role. I asked for feedback but didn't get any.