Recruitment processes and FAQs

You can apply for a job by visiting our current vacancies page, selecting a position that matches your skills and experience, and completing the online application form.

Yes, you can apply for multiple positions that match your qualifications and interests. Please submit a separate application for each role.

Please ensure that you complete all mandatory fields on the application form and upload your CV.

Please visit how to complete an application form and help with CVs for support. 

You will receive an email confirmation once your application has been successfully submitted.

The timeframe can vary depending on the role and number of applicants. The shortlisting panel will endeavour to review applications as soon as possible after the closing date of the advert.

Due to the volume of applications, we are unable to provide individual feedback to all applicants. However, we will notify you if you are not selected for an interview.

The interview process varies by role but generally includes a panel interview with competency based questions and may involve practical tests or assessments relevant to the position.

Review the job description and person specification thoroughly. Be prepared to discuss your experience, skills, and how they align with the requirements of the role. Practice common interview questions and consider examples that demonstrate your competencies.

Please visit interview tips and tricks for support.

When you have accepted a job offer, we will commence pre-employment checks, which can include (but not limited to), references, Disclosure and Barring Service check, Right to Work check and medical clearance.

Once all checks are complete and deemed satisfactory by the Hiring Manager and Recruitment team, you will be issued with a contract of employment and have your first day arrangements confirmed.

If you have further questions, please contact our recruitment team at recruitment@southampton.gov.uk or call 023 8083 4033.

At Southampton City Council, we are committed to providing a fair, inclusive, and people-first recruitment process. While we do not currently use artificial intelligence (AI) in our hiring, we recognise that many candidates are exploring tools like ChatGPT to support their job search. This guide helps you use AI ethically and effectively, while staying true to yourself.

Our recruitment process

We do not use AI to assess or screen candidates. Every CV and application we receive is reviewed by a real person. We take the time to carefully consider each candidate's experience against the requirements of the role.

We believe in human judgement. While we understand that AI can help you prepare, it cannot replace your personality, experiences, or potential.

If we ever decide to use AI in our recruitment process, we will do so transparently, ethically, and in line with data protection regulations.

Writing your CV

Your CV should tell your professional story clearly and honestly:

• Be specific: Tailor your CV to the job you are applying for
• Keep it clean: Use a simple layout with clear headings and bullet points
• Show your impact: Include achievements, outcomes, and challenges you overcame

It is fine to use AI to check spelling, grammar, or structure, but make sure your CV still reflects your voice and experiences.

Completing your application

Your application is your chance to show how you meet the role's criteria:

• Be accurate: Double-check your dates and job titles
• Be clear: Use Plain English and avoid jargon
• Be genuine: Share examples that are real and relevant

AI can help tidy up your writing, but do not let it take over. We want to hear from you, not a machine.

Pre-screening questions

These are an opportunity to highlight your most relevant experience:

• Think carefully: Describe real tasks or projects you have led
• Be honest: Focus on situations where you made a difference
• Avoid copy-paste: AI-generated answers often sound generic

If your answers do not feel authentic it will show. We want your insight, not AI's best guess.

Presentations

If you are asked to present during the process:

• Use AI for ideas only: You can brainstorm with it, but the final content should be your own
• Use your voice: Bring in your own examples and insights
• Be confident: Practise out loud — AI can't help in the moment

We will ask questions during or after your presentation, so it is important that the content is truly yours.

Competency-based questions

We ask these to understand how you behave in specific situations.

• Be real: Share examples from your own career
• Be reflective: Talk about what you did and learned
• Avoid fabrication: Never use fictional examples created by AI

If you are stuck AI might help you brainstorm situations, but the stories must come from you.

What AI can help with

Used responsibly, AI can be a helpful support tool. You can use it to:

• Check grammar or spelling
• Suggest ideas for structuring your answers
• Prepare for interviews by generating practice questions

What AI should not do

Avoid using AI to:

• Write your entire CV or cover letter
• Create fictional work examples
• Assist you during live interviews

These approaches reduce your authenticity and may weaken your application.

In summary

AI is a tool — not a substitute. It can help you build confidence, but it should never speak for you. We want to see what makes you, you.

If you have questions about using AI or want to know more about our approach to recruitment, please contact us at recruitment@southampton.gov.uk.