About the recruitment process 

What to expect during the early careers application process

This process helps to identify people who are not just skilled but also share our values and want to contribute to our purpose. It’s not just about finding candidates with lots of experience. We want people who can demonstrate teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and a commitment to learning. With the right preparation and a genuine approach, you can showcase your potential and take the next step in your career with Wates.

1. Skills we look for

We’re looking for people who can demonstrate key skills and attributes that align with our company culture:

• Teamwork and collaboration: We want people who enjoy being part of a team, working collaboratively towards a common goal.
• Communication skills: Clear and effective communication is vital in our industry. We want candidates who can express their thoughts, listen to others, and adapt their communication style to different situations.
• Problem-solving ability: At Wates, we face challenges daily. We value individuals who can approach problems with a positive mindset, think critically, and come up with new solutions.
• Motivation and willingness to learn: We look for candidates who are passionate about joining our team at Wates and aspire to develop in their careers with us.

2. Preparing for the recruitment process

Here are some specific tips to help you shine during the recruitment process.

• Prepare real-life examples: Even if you lack formal work experience, think about examples in your education, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities where you’ve shown teamwork, leadership, or problem-solving. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
• Understand our business: Take time to research Wates, our projects, and our commitment to sustainability and social value. Understanding what we do and our impact on the community will help you tailor your responses and show your genuine interest in our work.
• Be yourself: Authenticity goes a long way. We want to get to know the real you — your aspirations, strengths, and how you approach challenges. Don’t try to fit a mould. Instead, focus on how your unique qualities align with what we value at Wates.
• Ask questions: Prepare thoughtful questions that show your interest in the role and the company. This could include asking about our projects, team dynamics, or career development opportunities at Wates.

3. We are a Disability Confident Employer

We are a Disability Confident Employer. We aim to create an environment where you feel comfortable and can perform at your best. This includes offering reasonable adjustments to accommodate any needs you may have during the application, recruitment, and onboarding process.

Some candidates may need us to adjust these processes due to a disability. This will ensure we are fair and consistent, and everyone has a chance to do well. Whether it’s requiring additional time for certain tasks or requesting materials in advance, we’re here to support you.

If you have specific needs that require adjustments, please let us know as early as possible. To find out more and request additional support during the application and recruitment process, please contact our Early Careers team.

Register your interest