At CGI, we want all candidates who engage with us to be set up for success. As the interview is perhaps the most critical stage of the hiring process, we’ve recently reviewed our entire interviewing process to make sure there’s no chance of bias influencing any lines of questioning.
We want all candidates to have the same opportunity to answer the same questions for a role. Sometimes interviewers can be dazzled by great interview skills and forget what really matters. As such, we’ve overhauled our question set to target real skills and experiences, and to hone in on what you can learn at CGI.
We’re also keen to continue fine-tuning the process, so we give all our candidates the opportunity to provide feedback via our satisfaction survey after the interview. We took the time to sit down with several of our new starters to discuss their tips on acing your CGI interview like they did.
Geraldine Olea, Senior Project Manager - Space, Defence and Intelligence
What did you do to prepare for the interview with CGI?
Before my interview with CGI, I engaged in thorough research. This involved reading into the company's background, its key projects, and its global impact. Additionally, I familiarised myself with the profiles of the individuals who would be interviewing me. This proactive approach ensured that I entered the interview equipped with a well-rounded understanding of CGI's operations and the interviewers' backgrounds, enabling me to establish meaningful connections and facilitate a more insightful conversation during the interview process. This strategy also alleviates any pre-interview nerves.
What’s been your favourite question and answer in an interview?
One question that stood out to me as particularly impactful was, "What am I looking for in my next role/future career objectives?" This question not only allowed me to articulate my career ambitions and aspirations clearly but also provided an opportunity to showcase how my goals aligned with the organisation's objectives. By offering a thoughtful response, I could effectively communicate my value proposition to the interviewers and provide an honest answer.
What do you recommend interviewees to do during the interview?
I highly recommend that interviewees come prepared with a set of insightful questions. Having at least 3 well-thought-out questions demonstrates both interest and initiative. Not only does this allow candidates to gain valuable insights into the role and the company culture, but it also provides an opportunity to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level. By asking meaningful questions, candidates can better assess the interviewer's perspectives and gain a clearer understanding of the organisation's dynamics. This demonstrates preparedness but also displays genuine interest in the role and the company.
Jesica Ruiz, Project Administrator
What did you do to prepare for the interview with CGI?
First, I identified who the interviewers might be (I looked for them on LinkedIn). Then I researched the structure of the team I’d be potentially joining, and found out who the manager was. It was also important to learn about CGI as a whole by going to the website and understanding the company’s core business and corporate values.
Probably, most importantly, I had a copy of the job description at hand, and I identified the key responsibilities of the role. This really helped me talk about my skills with experience and relate to them with confidence.
What do you recommend interviewees to do during the interview?
Show up early (or if online, make sure everything works perfectly), make a good impression with your first greeting and ask questions! Some questions that I like to ask the interviewer include:
- Is this role new? If not, how has it evolved?
- Is there scope for career progression?
- What does a typical day look like?
- Who are the key stakeholders?
- What are the main challenges and opportunities the business faces?
- What training opportunities are available?
- From your perspective, what is it like to work here?
- What is the next step?
Steve Clare, Business Consultant - Space, Defence and Intelligence
What did you do to prepare for the interview with CGI?
A little homework on CGI, re-read my CV, and thought about hypothetical Q&As.
What’s been your favourite question and answer in a CGI interview?
It was along the lines of: “What is something you’re proud of that you’ve accomplished in your career and why?”
What do you recommend interviewees to do during the interview?
Sell your wins. Interviews are nerve-wracking but conversation comes easier when you talk about things you’re genuinely excited about.
Madeline Kingsley - Associate Software Engineer
What did you do to prepare for the interview with CGI?
I reviewed the job description and my CV to refresh myself on how my skills and experience aligned with the outlined requirements. I also researched CGI to gain an understanding of the company’s ethos and the services offered. I also made note of any unanswered questions I had so that I could ask them during the interview.
What do you recommend interviewees to do during the interview?
Take a second to think about your answers before responding to the questions, ask your own questions, and be yourself!
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