[TOC] Interview experience - got the job!
Just wanted to share my recent TOC interview experience - and the good news that I got the job!
The format:
- Introduction from the team (3 managers)
- Presentation about the company and role
- Competency-based interview (about 45 mins)
- Scenario questions
- Chance to ask questions
Questions I got:
- Tell us about a time you had to make a difficult decision under pressure
- How do you ensure safety in your work?
- Describe a situation where you had to work with someone you found difficult
My advice: be honest, use STAR method, and don't be afraid to ask for clarification if you don't understand a question.
Good luck to everyone still in the process!
15 Replies
Page 1 of 2Massive congratulations! 🎉 Really encouraging to read this - got my interview coming up next month.
Congrats! Those scenario questions sound tricky. What sort of scenarios did they give you?
@guardtodriver - mine was about what I'd do if I arrived at a station and discovered a fault with the train that wasn't on the paperwork.
They want to see you put safety first, follow procedure, and communicate clearly.
The STAR method is so important - Situation, Task, Action, Result. Practice structuring your answers that way and it becomes second nature.
Did they ask about the rule book? I've been learning it but not sure how much detail they expect.
@nightshift - they didn't ask me to quote specific rules but wanted to know that I understood the importance of following them. Safety-critical mindset is what they're looking for.
Great advice about asking for clarification. I think a lot of people are scared to do this in interviews but it actually shows good communication skills.
What was the panel like? Were they friendly or quite formal?
@commuter.champ - mine were professional but friendly. They want you to succeed - remember they're looking for future colleagues, not trying to catch you out!
This has really helped calm my nerves. I've got my interview next week and was starting to panic a bit!
How long was the whole process from start to finish?
@northern.driver - interview itself was about an hour. Then had to wait about a week for the result. The assessment centre before that was a full day.
Did you have to do a presentation? I've heard some TOCs ask for one.
@terminal.steve - no presentation for me, but I know some TOCs do ask for one. Check what format your interview will be beforehand.
Congrats again! What TOC will you be joining?