We know applying for a new opportunity can feel both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. Our goal is to make the recruitment process clear, respectful, and engaging from start to finish. 

Every position is unique, and the application requirements will be outlined in the job posting. Once an application closes, our hiring team reviews candidates based on the education, experience, skills, and qualifications identified in the role. 

If you are selected to move forward, we'll reach out with details about the next steps. Depending on the position, this may include skills testing before the interview. Examples can include: 

• Equipment or job-specific skill assessments 
• Computer-based testing (such as keyboarding or software proficiency) 
• Presentations or work-related exercises 

Interviews may include behavioural, situational, and technical questions that help us learn more about your experience, strengths, and approach to work. 

For some positions, a driver's abstract may be required later in the process. If applicable, this will be noted in the job posting and communicated directly to you. 

If you are invited to interview, we'll provide everything you need to prepare, including interview details, required documentation, and instructions for submitting references and qualifications.

Your application is your opportunity to tell us about your experience, accomplishments, and what makes you a great fit for the role. We encourage you to highlight the skills and experiences that best reflect your strengths and potential. 

Your cover letter

A strong cover letter will help you stand out by sharing more about your interest in the role and the value you would bring to Norfolk County. 

Some helpful tips: 

• Tailor your cover letter to the position you are applying for 
• Highlight relevant skills and experiences from the posting 
• Share why this opportunity interests you 
• Demonstrate how your background will contribute to success in the role 
• Take time to review and edit before submitting 

Your resume 

Your resume helps us to understand your career journey and how your experience relates to the position. 

Consider including:

• Your work experience in chronological order 
• Employment dates so we can understand the scope of your experience 
• Accomplishments, responsibilities, and skills gained in each role 
• Volunteer, community, or extracurricular experiences that support your application 
• The experience most relevant to the position 

Before submitting, compare your resume to the job posting and ensure it clearly demonstrates how your qualifications align with the role. 

If you are selected for an interview, we'll contact you to arrange a date and time. 

You'll receive a confirmation email that includes: 

• Interview details, including location or virtual meeting links
• A reference release form 
• Instructions for submitting any required documentation 

We appreciate your prompt confirmation of attendance and encourage you to submit any requested documents before your interview date to help ensure a smooth process. 

The interview is our opportunity to learn more about you and an opportunity for you to learn more about us. 

One of the best ways to prepare is by reviewing the job posting and reflecting on how your experiences connect to the role's responsibilities and qualifications. We also recommend reviewing your resume so you're ready to discuss the experiences and accomplishments you've highlighted. 

Many of our interviews include behavioural questions. These questions focus on real-life situations you've experienced and help us understand how you've applied your skills in the past. Common skills we focus on include communication, planning and organization, problem-solving, decision-making, and collaboration and teamwork. 

Using the STAR method

A helpful way to answer behavioural interview questions is by using the STAR method: 

• Situation: Describe the situation, challenge, or opportunity you faced. 
• Task: Explain your role or responsibility. 
• Action: Explain the actions you personally took and your role in the outcome. 
• Result: Share what happened, what you achieved, and what you learned. 

The more specific your examples are, the easier it is for the interview panel to understand your experience and the impact of your contributions. 

For additional guidance, check out this Behavioural Interview Guide.

We want every candidate to feel welcomed, respected, and comfortable sharing their skills and experiences with our team. 

Typically: 

• Interviews are conducted by a panel of at least two of our team members 
• Questions are prepared in advance and based on the requirements of the position 
• Panel members will take notes throughout the interview to ensure a fair and consistent evaluation process
• Interviews generally last between 45 and 60 minutes, depending on the role 

Most importantly, remember that everyone around the interview table has been in your position before. We genuinely want you to succeed and work to create an environment where you can put your best foot forward. 

How you can prepare

To help make the interview a positive experience: 

• Review the interview instructions provided in your confirmation email 
• Let us know in advance if you require any accommodation during the recruitment process 
• Arrive a few minutes early or join your virtual interview on time 
• If a question is not clear, feel free to ask for clarification or have it repeated
• Where possible, share specific examples and experiences 

A two-way conversation

An interview isn't just about us getting to know you. It's also your opportunity to determine whether Norfolk County is the right fit for your career goals. 

We encourage you to ask questions, learn about the team, and explore how your talents could contribute to serving our community. We want to build a team of people who want to make a meaningful impact in Norfolk County.