Job application process

If you're interested in working at Elmbridge Borough Council, you can find out more about our application process. 

Applications

To apply, view our current vacancies and complete an application for any roles you are interested in.  You'll need to complete a separate application for each position you want to apply for. We accept applications rather than CVs so that everyone can be considered on the same basis.

Completing the form

Make sure you complete all sections of the form and follow the instructions. You should refer to our blog on completing our application form.

Pay attention to the 'experience and supporting information' section

The 'experience and supporting information' section is the most important part of the application as this will be used for shortlisting.  Use this section to highlight your experience and give examples of your relevant skills.  You will need to address each point on the person specification in your supporting statement so read the person specification carefully before you start your application. The selection process may also refer to our competencies (the skills and behaviours we expect of all our employees).

How you'll hear from us

If your application is successful, we'll send you an email inviting you to an interview.  

Preparing for interview

You can increase your chances if you spend some time preparing for your interview. 

Get familiar with the job description and person specification

The interview questions will be based around these so think about what questions you could be asked and how you might answer them based on your experience and skills.

Research the council

Find out key facts and information - our values, our approach, our services - and think about what you can bring to the council.   

Think of some questions

At the end of the interview, you'll have the opportunity to ask some questions, so think in advance about what you would like to ask the panel.

Interviews

If you get shortlisted for interview, here's what to expect on your interview day. 

Location

Interviews take place at our offices in the Civic Centre in Esher, or if you are applying to work in a Community Centre, they take place at a Centre.

Transport and parking

Esher station is 15 minutes walk from the Civic Centre or, if you're driving, there is a pay and display car park next to the Civic Centre.

Dress code

If you have an interview at the Civic Centre, you should wear normal business dress.

Interview room

Your interview will take place in a private room with a panel (usually 2 or 3 members of staff). 

During the interview

The panel will ask questions and make notes of your answers.  Remember the panel is on your side - they have invited you for interview and want to know more about you.  You'll get an opportunity at the end of the interview to ask any questions so you can find out more about the role or the council.

Tests

Your invitation to interview will let you know whether there will be a test; this will either be before or after your interview.

After the interview

You'll hear from us as soon as possible after your interview.  Sometimes interviews take place over several days so bear with us while we interview everyone and make a decision.