Recruitment FAQ's

We hear from Nicola Swann, one of our Learner Recruitment Officers, about life in the department, the challenges they face and the rewarding side of the role.

"I've worked for Busy Bees Education and Training for just over 4 years now. Over that time, my  role has grew and developed into what I do today. During in my time here I have attended careers events, visited job centres and schools to deliver presentations and discuss careers within all the areas we provide apprenticeships. We offer information which could help them realise their full potential and what kind of career they might expect."

What is a 'typical' day like for you?
No two days are the same. Typically, I log on and check my emails then respond to any queries or questions I have received. Once this is done, I then move onto looking at the new applicants for internal vacancies, external vacancies and people applying for our apprenticeship scheme, whilst also returning all phone calls that may need attention.

What are your responsibilities?
Dealing with enquiries from potential apprentices, internal and external customers.
Processing applications for staff looking to upskill and delivering information, advice and guidance on the courses which would be best suited to them and their role. I will also answer any questions that may have been raised surrounding the recruitment process, sign up process and everything else in between.

What do you enjoy about your role?
I enjoy giving people, regardless of age, experience or knowledge, the ability to get started with a rewarding career or to progress and be able to take on more senior roles within the company. Seeing and hearing from people who really want to gain a qualifications but are unsure on how or where to get started and giving them information advice and guidance and the best course for them and giving them an insight of what to expect.

What challenges do you face in your job?
Staying on top of qualifications and any updates and changes to understand how they would affect my day-to-day job. Ensuring that everyone has a response in one way or another.

• What do you look for in a potential applicant?
• Interest in the sector 
• Communication skills
• Examples of teamwork
• Get up and go attitude
• Someone who is friendly and approachable

What tips would you give someone looking to apply for an apprenticeship with us?
Don't worry about what you haven't got and focus on what you do have. Something we look for when doing our recruitment is looking for people who want to make a career. The experience and knowledge comes alongside the apprenticeship. Instead, we look for people who good communication skills, are team players, able to use their own initiative, have a positive attitude and be motivated. We are always available at the end of the phone or email should you have any questions or are unsure of anything.

How do you monitor and track the progress of an applicant?
As a recruitment team, we split everything equally, so no one feels overwhelmed with the amount of work and that no candidates are missed. Following the receipt of an application, the candidate will then be asked a series of questions, sometimes over email, sometimes over the phone. These are there to help us get an overall picture of the candidate. We are then able to create a shortlist of candidates to put forward for interview. All candidates receive feedback throughout each step, ensuring that understand how they are performing through the process.

What changes have happened over the past 12/18 months to improve the process and what changes would you like to see in the future?
Over the last 12/18 months there has been a lot of changes for the best. The introductions of new qualifications to be able support all areas of the sector.  We have been able to collaboratively work with our current customers.  This has helped us understand what the customer requires so we can provide the best experience.  Customers now ask advice to see how they can support their staff.