Are you an IBMer?

Selection Process

So you're now fully up to speed in terms of what we're looking for, so the next step is to explain what happens during our selection process. Our process has been designed not only for us to understand if you are right for us, but also for you to understand if we are right for you. So, take every opportunity you can to ask questions along the way.

Please note all roles will be filled on a first come first served basis and we recommend you apply early to avoid disappointment. We often fill some roles well before the closing date for applications!

• STEP 1 - Submit your application

  In order to apply to IBM, you will need to apply online through this website. There are 2 parts to the application form. The first part is an online application form and asks for personal details as well as information about your education and work experience. The second part is the IBM CV template (DOC, 64KB).

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  The CV template is straightforward to complete, lists all the skills that we look for and asks you to give examples to demonstrate when you have used these. You can use examples from any aspect of your life - school, college, hobbies, charity work, work experience etc.

  When we receive your application, the recruitment team will review it initially to ensure that you have answered all the questions and met our minimum requirements in terms of education etc. Your application will then be passed to one of our professional development managers for full review.

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• STEP 2 - Online Test

  If your application is successful through the screening phase then we will invite you to take an online aptitude test - the IBM IPAT test. This test has been developed by IBM to test logical reasoning and the ability to process information quickly. All the instructions are included in the email that will be sent to you inviting you to take the test.

  The test is divided into 2 sections and you can take these either both in one sitting or two sittings and you will have 5 days to take it before your password expires. The test can be adjusted for anyone that needs a reasonable adjustment and you will be asked to self select whether you need this when you log onto the test for the first time.

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• STEP 3 - Assessment Centre

  If you achieve the minimum score required on the online aptitude test then we will invite you to an assessment centre. You will be given a presentation about the opportunities available and give you the chance to ask more questions.

  You can expect to take part in the following activities:

  Group Activity - You will take part in 2 group activities - one logical problem solving exercise and one discussion based exercise. We will be looking for you to work well as a team and demonstrate the IBM Foundational Competencies during these exercises.

  Confirmatory IPATO test - You will take a short confirmatory test for the online test you have already completed. This will follow the same format as the online test.

  Interview - You will have two interviews. One will be by one of our Professional Development Managers to ascertain whether you have the skills we are looking for at IBM. This interview will be based around the IBM Foundational Competencies and your CV. You will also have a business interview with a manager from the business area you have applied to. This interview will assess your suitability for a specific role in that business area and also assess you further on the IBM Foundational Competencies.

  Pre-prepared presentation - You will also be asked to complete some preparation work before the assessment centre in the form of a presentation. Full details will be given to you in advance so you will have plenty of time to practice!