All of the below information comes directly from job reviews written by FirstGroup employees based on 97 reviews.
 
 
Responsibility:
3.6/5
 
Work Life Balance:
3.8/5
 
Environmental Awareness:
3.7/5
 
Benefits:
3.6/5
 
Company Culture:
3.6/5
 
Career Progression:
3.9/5
 
Colleagues:
4.1/5
 
Training:
3.9/5
 
Enjoyment:
4.1/5
 
Overall Rating:
3.8/5
 

At FirstGroup, we’re all about journeys. A to B. Here to there. We connect people and communities and we make sure they’re smiling along the way. Our huge and complex transport network includes buses, trains and trams. We’re all over the UK, from Cornwall up to Scotland, and our business is growing and evolving alongside the wider industry. Every new day presents a new set of challenges, and with that comes endless possibilities and opportunities; there’s never been a better time to get involved.

Our student, apprentice and graduate roles are designed to take you on a journey, too. Wherever you envision your career going, opportunities within FirstGroup are the perfect place to start.

We’re big believers in hands-on experience, and this applies to all of our roles from Operational and Engineering through to Commercial, Finance and Support. From day one you’ll be working alongside senior colleagues and absorbing as much as you can. It’s about giving you everything you need to succeed today so that tomorrow you can lead the next generation. We know that the fresh perspective of students and graduates is what’s needed to help shape the public transport industry of the future.

There are places available across our Group, Bus and Rail divisions and within our business, operations or engineering functions – let your interests shape your opportunities. Our graduate programme lasts for two years, while summer placements for students in their penultimate year are 8 to 12 weeks.

Our recruitment process has five key stages, details of which can be found on our website. We recommend getting your application submitted early and knowing all the ins and outs of FirstGroup before you do so.

FirstGroup today, where tomorrow?


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Internal Communications Job Title: Bus Commercial Management Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Data & Analytics Job Title: Graduate Data Engineering Analyst

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Learning new technologies and tools, working with large quantities of data covering a variety of business processes, and making systems and processes that work.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Bus Operations Job Title: Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The extensive training and investment from the company. I now have a PCV license and I am a registered Transport Manager having done my Transport Manager CPC.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Bus Operations Job Title: Bus Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The diversity of tasks, experiencing different aspects of the business, meeting different people and teams. There is a lot of opportunity to travel between depots/sites. Being a graduate rather than in a specific role (with specific responsibilities) means you can pick up opportunities as they arise that wouldn't be as easy in a full-time job role.
There are lots of training and qualification opportunities and you are supported with your development.

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: GWR Job Title: Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Bus Operations Job Title: Bus Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Variety in placements and tasks.

Read more


Industry: - Select Industry - Department: Operations Job Title: Operations Management Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Operations Management Job Title: Bus Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Dealing with lots of different people and having a direct impact on what is happening out there on the road right now. I can directly impact hundreds of customers experience in one day and make there journeys better. You also get lots of responsibility quickly.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Rail Division Job Title: Rail Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Lots of responsibility and inclusion

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: South Western Railway - Engineering Job Title: Rail Engineering Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

You drive your own learning, can essentially choose what you want to do and go from there - lots of freedom and flexibility.
No direct responsibilities are given to you as you are learning.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Bus Job Title: Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The people.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Bus engineering Job Title: Bus Engineering Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The breadth of work that I'm able to be involved in
The people are really welcoming and willing to support me
Being able to get hands-on with shop floor work

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Divisional Commercial Job Title: Bus Commercial Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Being given the chance to run impactful projects.
Management being very invested in graduates and what they can offer.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Rail Operations Job Title: Rail Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Flexibility of work
Wide range of responsibilities
Large exposure to all aspects of the business
Meet lots of people

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: First Bus Job Title: Bus Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

It is really varied, we get to do all sorts of things as part of learning the business and industry that we may not have otherwise been able to do. You get to learn what you're good and not good at.

The support network from other graduates on the scheme is really useful, as well as having support from different people and places in the business.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Management Graduate Job Title: Management Trainee

What are the best and worst things about your job?

If you seek out good work, it is available.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Operations Job Title: Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

No two days are the same. `

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Engineering Job Title: Graduate Rail Management Engineer

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Freedom to do the courses I want with plenty of support when needed. Good communication with the team.
Ability to manage my own time and learning

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Engineering Job Title: Rail Engineering Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The opportunities to learn and develop. Exploring the entire organisation from the front line to management is really exciting.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Rail Operations Job Title: Rail Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Great mixture of work to explore a variety of roles, skills and departments.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Rail Job Title: Rail Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

A huge range of experiences and opportunities both to learn and to make a real contribution. The inclusion of hands-on, practical skills/training, such as Train Guard training and time on stations, is excellent as it ensures there is not an excessive office focus.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Bus Operations Job Title: Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Being involved in the day-to-day operation of a depot from the very start.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: GWR Job Title: Rail Engineering Managment Gradute

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The best thing about my job is the training and opportunities available, which allow you to develop and improve at a rate far quicker than would be possible in a normal job,

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Rail Graduate Job Title: Rail Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Working with some excellent colleagues from a wide variety of backgrounds
Varied role with opportunities to get involved in an array of tasks
Ability to progress and develop

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Operations Job Title: Bus Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The variety - so far I've been in charge of improving one of our key KPI's and then the complete change of learning to drive a bus!

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Rail Job Title: Rail Operations Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Change. I do many different things at once. It teaches me a lot about time management and I am always looking forward to the next day as I know it won't be the same as the previous.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Railway Job Title: Rail Operations Managment Gradaute

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Learning and Training Opportunities
Networking
Experience of the railway
Only time I can learn as much as I'm learning now
Flexible working

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Operations Job Title: Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Rotating around different departments can give you a deeper insight into how a team role play a valuable input into the bigger picture.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Finance Job Title: Finance Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The working environment, you are pushed and challenged by the work, yet the environment is supportive and collegiate.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Finance Job Title: Finance Management Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Operations Job Title: Operations Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The opportunity to experience many different areas of the industry. Providing recommendations for improvements across the organization and seeing them put in place.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Bus Operations Job Title: Bus Ops graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Great opportunity to learn on the job, develop skills, widen network of support.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Various Job Title: Operations Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Every single day is different so it is never boring once you get stuck in. I loved that I was trained to drive a bus because it is a skill I can take with me for life.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Bus Engineering Job Title: Bus Engineering Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

You get a lot of variation and learning in your week. The support you receive is excellent and you have the opportunity to travel around the UK to different depots, training and meetings. It is great meeting the different people in the business when you are travelling to different meetings and events.

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Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing Department: Engineering Management Job Title: Rail Engineering Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Wide range of opportunities.

Freedom to manage your placements and time.

Freedom to explore.

Company Credit Card makes life easier.

Free train travel for the train operating company you are based at.

Very supportive people within HR.

A lot of training offered.

Knowledge in the field is not expected, only willingness to learn and apply what has been learned.

Not much stress (depended on placement).

Very flexible company, they listen to you and care about you!

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Operations Job Title: Duty Station Manager

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Variety
Challenges
Wide opportunities available

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Stations Job Title: Station Manager

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Every day is different
Opportunity to learn
People management

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Finance Job Title: Finance Management Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Bus Operations Job Title: Graduate Manager

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Every day is different. I have experienced a wide variety of aspects of the company in the last 8 months.

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Rail Operations Job Title: Driver Standards Manager

What are the best and worst things about your job?

ability to have real influence on improving work for our colleagues and service for our customers.

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Insurance Job Title: Litigation Assistant

What are the best and worst things about your job?

You meet an array of different people and, during the graduate scheme, you are introduced to so many different departments that no two days were the same.

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Finance Job Title: Finance Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Being able to study alongside working.

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Operations Job Title: Driver Manager

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Extremely satisfying as what we deliver is real, moving thousands of people a day from one location to another.

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Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: First Bus Job Title: Operations and Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The best part about my job is that I get to work within a diverse work force that places focus upon its customers and delivering an excellent service.

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Major Projects Job Title: Project Engineer

What are the best and worst things about your job?

Responsibility,
Challenge,
Opportunities for development.

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Engineering Job Title: Engineering Management Graduate

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The variety of work an operations environment can throw at you. No two days are ever the same and things can change at very short notice. Also, working within a company open to change and supportive of fresh ideas.

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: FirstBus - Graduate Job Title: Graduate Operations Manager

What are the best and worst things about your job?

The ability to make a real difference from the very first day - you're encouraged to come up with new ideas to improve the business, and given the tools and encouragement to follow these through.

Read more


Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing Department: Engineering Job Title: Engineering Contracts Manager

What are the best and worst things about your job?

I am never bored. Everyday is different, challenging and enjoyable.
The pay is good.
Lots of support from senior management.
Great fun colleagues.

Read more


Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Procurement

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution Department: Operations Job Title: Graduate Operations Manager

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Fleet Department Job Title: Rail Engineering Management

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Job Title: Rail Operations Management Graduate Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Account Manager Department: UK Bus Job Title: Operations Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Major Projects and New Fleets Job Title: Rail Operations Management Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Rail Operations Job Title: (Rail) Operations Graduate Management Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Marketing Job Title: Marketing Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Job Title: Rail Operations Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Rail Job Title: Operations Management Graduate Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Operations Job Title: Operations and Management Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: GWR Job Title: Operations Graduate Management Trainee

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Engineering Graduate Trainee Department: Great Western Railway Job Title: Engineering Graduate Management Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Job Title: Operations Management Graduate Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Job Title: Graduate Manager

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Transport Management Department: Bus Job Title: Graduate Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Operations Job Title: Operations Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Job Title: Operation Management Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Job Title: Engineering Management Graduate Trainne

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Account Manager Department: Rail Job Title: Operations Graduate

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Engineering Graduate Trainee Department: Engineering Job Title: Graduate Engineering Management Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Bus Job Title: Management Trainee

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Engineering Graduate Trainee Department: Engineering Job Title: Graduate Engineering management trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Bus Operations Job Title: Operations Management Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Rail Job Title: Mangement Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Engineering Job Title: Graduate Engineerng Management Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: First Great Western Job Title: Operations Graduate Manager

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Rail Operations Job Title: Rail Operations Management Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Account Manager Job Title: Graduate Operations Manager

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Engineering Graduate Trainee Department: Rail Job Title: Engineering Management Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: ScotRail Job Title: Management Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Job Title: Operations Management Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Rail Engineering Job Title: Rail Engineering Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Transport Management Department: Engineering Job Title: Graduate Engineering Management Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Job Title: Bus Operations Graduate

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Engineering Graduate Trainee Department: Sheffield Job Title: Engineering Graduate

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Bus Operations Job Title: Graduate Trainee Manager

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering Job Title: Graduate engineer

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Engineering Graduate Trainee Department: Rail Job Title: Rail Engineering Graduate Manager Trainee

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Engineering Graduate Trainee Department: Management Job Title: Graduate Engineering Management Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Group Job Title: Management Graduate Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: FCC Job Title: Operations graduate management trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Operations Job Title: Operations management trainee

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Engineering Graduate Trainee Department: First Great Western Engineering Job Title: Rail Engineering Graduate

Industry: Engineering and Manufacturing, Buying & Procurement Department: Bus Operations/Commercial Job Title: Management Graduate Trainee

Industry: Transport, Logistics and Distribution, Management Graduate Scheme Department: Commercial Job Title: Graduate management trainee

Industry: Arts & Media, Marketing Executive Job Title: Commercial Graduate

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FirstGroup

Average start time: 8:00

Average end time: 17:00

Average number of working hours: 9

Based on 97 reviews


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Application Advice:

Have examples prepared that you can easily relate to such as working under pressure or as part of a team or leading a team.

Interview Advice:

Relax and be yourself.
Make sure you make use of any sessions that give you the chance to speak to the assessors to show that you are interested in them and the business.

Operations Management Graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Show off your skillset, you don't need to have previous experience in the bus industry, just an ability to adapt and motivation to learn.

Interview Advice:

Be open and honest, use hobbies and activities outside work as examples. The assessment centre involves working in pairs and delivering information. If anything is unclear seek clarity, ask questions. Use the time in between assessments to talk to the interviewers, get to know what they are looking for and also gives an opportunity for them to get to know you outside of specific tasks and interview settings.

Bus Operations Management Graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Application is mostly online an consists of video interview and numerical and logical reasoning tests.

Interview Advice:

First is a people-driven business but also one driven by high fixed-costs and striving for efficiencies wherever possible. Be prepared to show strength on both of these fronts.

Bus Operations Management Graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Show plenty of passion and an array of experience and how it may be relevant to the job role. Nobody has come out of university with operations experience - you need to show how you have skills that are transferrable. Don't be put off by a poor university or unusual degree - I went to a poor university and did a geography and music degree, yet they found a position for me!

Interview Advice:

The interview is very much strength based. Prepare lots of examples to illustrate when you have shown particular strengths or abilities. The very questions are very set - you will not be able to talk around them.

Bus Operations Management Graduate, Operations Management at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Utilise all past experience, not necessarily engineering related, but the different ways you have honed your skillset.

Interview Advice:

Be as truthful to yourself as possible, after all, you need to be the right fit for the job, so don't pretend to be someone you're not.

Rail Engineering Management Graduate, South Western Railway – Engineering at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Show that you have an interest in the industry, but don't forget that transport is a people powered industry!

Interview Advice:

Interview was strengths-based and wasn't designed to trip you up.

Operations Management Graduate, Bus at FirstGroup
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Interview Advice:

They want to know who you are as a person. Transport is a people business; so you have to be confident in talking to people and developing professional relationships.

Bus Engineering Management Graduate, Bus Engineering at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Don't worry about having experience in the travel sector or loads of previous work experience, personal growth and experiences help you with the application to the company.

Interview Advice:

Be as honest as you can with your responses.
Talk to the people that will be interviewing you at the assessment centre before the official interview portion starts to gain an insight into the company.
The video interview asks for general experiences - why customers are important, if you've ever tried something new...
The assessment centre has four parts: 1) a series of small 20 minute exercises surrounding possible scenarios, 2) a presentation that is given and prepared in the room before being presented to one member of the interview team, 3) a presentation of ideas between two of you followed by a question and answer session, 4) a strengths-based interview, not focused on any previous experience.

Bus Commercial Management Graduate, Divisional Commercial at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Be yourself, they're less interested in how much knowledge you have about the industry already and more focused on who you are as a person.

Interview Advice:

The assessment day (after the online tests and video interviews) is really enjoyable, there are lots of different mini tasks and presentations and you get to meet other graduates in the same position and those already on the scheme.

Bus Operations Management Graduate, First Bus at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Long process. Video interview was tricky. A/C was good, they made the effort to make you feel comfortable.

Interview Advice:

Experience-based questions.

Management Trainee, Management Graduate at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Remain formal and professional.

Interview Advice:

Differentiate yourself. Too many of the same people in the industry and fresh ways of thinking are sought after.

Operations Management Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Really express your interests and achievements. It's fantastic doing so well at university, but it's the extra-curricular stuff that makes you unique. Write it down!

Interview Advice:

The interview process is not something that can be rehearsed, which is great! Everybody enters on a level playing field and are offered the opportunity to show off their personality. It is important to remember that the interview is designed to find compatibility between candidate and company.

Rail Engineering Management Graduate, Engineering at FirstGroup
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Interview Advice:

Be yourself. Genuinely express your passion for the business and sector. Most importantly - know your stuff. Don't get caught out by not researching the industry.

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Rail Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

If you are passionate to learn and get experience in the rail industry, show it! It is always best to demonstrate your enthusiasm for FirstGroup's opportunities specifically, rather than as "just another grad scheme application".

Interview Advice:

Having examples from work experience or other past events to draw upon is very useful to verify the skills you are trying to demonstrate/describe.

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Rail at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Make sure you understand what skills First are looking for in a Graduate - you can get a good idea of these on the application page. Make sure you tailor your responses to these and try to put in a bit of industry-relevant information if you can.

Interview Advice:

Previous grads all have different styles but they've all shown they're passionate about the role they're applying for, are driven and can handle pressure.

Operations Management Graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Do your research, find out about the company you are applying for and what is important to them. Also, consider what transferable skills you have and how these can be used in a new role.

Interview Advice:

Be honest, don't try to fit with what you think they are looking for.

Rail Engineering Managment Gradute, GWR at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Research the role and be genuine about your interests. Also practice for the online testing by practising numerical, logic and grammar tests.

Interview Advice:

Be yourself; both in the video interview and at the assessment centre. Have an interest and passion for the railways and be prepared for practical questions in the interview. Thinking along the lines of going the extra mile for customers is also a prevalent theme.

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Rail Graduate at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Be honest. Give details of any real life experience - doesn't have to be related to the bus industry.

Interview Advice:

Give examples and do your research. Know what First Group is about and try to think about how your answers can relate to this.

Bus Operations Management Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Don't try to be what you are not just because you're looking for a job. The application process is designed to see if you'll be the right fit for the company and also if the role is suited to you. By being yourself, and giving honest answers you know that you're staying true to yourself but also should you get through the entire process and be offered a position, you've got the right base for the position and that the company will support you with tools and techniques to go further in the role.

Interview Advice:

Research the company so you know the type of industry they are operating in. It's important to be able to find personal examples from your experience to answer questions as they're strength based questions.
Don't be afraid to ask for a question to be repeated or a pause or some water, you need to be comfortable, so don't stress.
If there is something you don't know, say so, don't lie and make up stuff; people genuinely see through that.

Rail Operations Graduate, Rail at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Study company, TOC's and projects beforehand
Take time applying, use specific examples
Link previous experiences and learning in with companies values.

Interview Advice:

Be yourself
Be confident
Use good examples to back up points
Speak slowly (don't speak quickly)
Stay calm
Study company, TOC's and projects before hand

Rail Operations Managment Gradaute, Railway at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Tailor CV/Cover letter to the description of the role
Use examples of how your values align with FirstGroup's values

Interview Advice:

Use positive examples of how you made a difference to a certain situation.

Think about your answer before saying it, have a notepad and pen in front of you so you can quickly structure your answer-it's very easy to give an answer that lacks depth/substance!

Do not assume the interviewer knows what you are talking about. Paint them a clear picture of the situation.

Operations Management Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Commercial awareness of the industry and business will set you apart.
Thoughtful well researched answers.
The company is interested in fit, they are therefore interested in you as a wider person, what do you enjoy to do, what are your passions?

Interview Advice:

Prepare thoroughly but answer naturally and honestly. Let your enthusiasm shine through.
Practice technical and critical skills under timed conditions.

Finance Management Graduate, Finance at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Focus on how your experience can help the customer. Don't worry about the fact that you have no public transport knowledge.

Interview Advice:

Focus on how your experience can help the customer. Don't worry about the fact that you have no public transport knowledge. It's a people-focused industry so emphasize the importance of this in interview questions. Any management experience you have will also be valuable.

Operations Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

There are many stages to the application. Be natural, be prepared, be honest.

Interview Advice:

Do your research about the company.
Understand what the role is.
Give examples of previous roles and experience you have gained.

Bus Ops graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Don't expect it to be a 9-5 job. It certainly can be but you won't get half the experience without working all sorts of different hours.

Interview Advice:

Be calm, be honest and enjoy the interview experience. It can be daunting but you're there to show why YOU are best for the job.

Operations Management Graduate, Various at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Be yourself and show how through all your different experiences of work and education you have developed.
You don't have to write another dissertation, just be clear and concise!
You don't need to be in university to apply as long as you graduated within two years of your application you are eligible and that experience after university gives you additional skills and knowledge.
Understand that the transport industry does not stop outside 9am to 5pm.

Interview Advice:

Take your time and think about the questions, don't immediately jump to an answer which could seem irrelevant.
Don't be afraid to show your personality in the interview because the interviewer can see through most applicants who are "acting".
Talk about what unique experiences you have had and what skills you have gained from them.

Bus Engineering Management Graduate, Bus Engineering at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Be honest and show a genuine passion for the role.

Interview Advice:

General questions about your past. Management questions. Company values.

Rail Engineering Management Graduate, Engineering Management at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Prepare and put the time in to do it.

Interview Advice:

Preparation, as it is a long process.

Duty Station Manager, Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

-Make sure you know what you are applying for and are aware of what will be expected from you if you are successful.
-Give a good account of yourself, the reasons you would be a good candidate, and make sure you come across as engaged.

Interview Advice:

-Research the company, read the values, come prepared with examples of how you demonstrate the company values.
-Come prepared with some questions of your own.
-Be presentable and professional.

Station Manager, Stations at FirstGroup
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Interview Advice:

Research the company history but also look at recent news stories related to the transport industry in general.

Finance Management Graduate, Finance at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Do your research about the company.
Understand the industry.

Interview Advice:

Have examples of going on buses and taking note of the drivers, routes and locations.

Graduate Manager, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

you must be aware of what you are going into - you cannot treat operations like a 9-5 and have to show that you are willing to work unsociable hours to be truly accepted by the colleagues you manage.

Interview Advice:

ensure you use techniques such as STAR but also then introduce an element of reflection/evaluation.

Driver Standards Manager, Rail Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Show yourself to be a well-rounded person able to adapt to different circumstances. You will be working with all sorts of different people across several departments.

Interview Advice:

The interview consists of different modules. Come prepared to work under pressure both on your own and as a team. Get to know the others in your interview slot - some of them may be your colleagues shortly.

Litigation Assistant, Insurance at FirstGroup
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Interview Advice:

Just be yourself and answer the questions with confidence.

Finance Management Graduate, Finance at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

STAR approach.

Interview Advice:

Challenging process - looking for great personalities who can develop and lead difficult environments.

Driver Manager, Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Keep the application simple and refer to any previous work/life experience when possible.

Interview Advice:

I would encourage candidates to be enthusiastic, willing and most importantly themselves. Our interview process allows us to view candidates in varying scenarios and we look for a genuine person who has the ambition to learn.

Operations and Management Graduate, First Bus at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Practice psychometric tests, and try to be relaxed in the video interview, think about your setting.

Interview Advice:

Be yourself and demonstrate what makes you stand out as a leader and team player. Research the industry and the company's core values.

Project Engineer, Major Projects at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Be open, honest and focus on the competencies and positive characteristics you have which would be beneficial to the company and would suit the role. Keep the application concise.

Interview Advice:

Prepare for anything. Practise at home and be prepared for unexpected questions or comments. Make sure you know your CV, application and abilities off by heart and be prepared to offer examples of how you have demonstrated certain competencies and qualities in the past.

Engineering Management Graduate, Engineering at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

You don't need experience in the industry but you need to show that you are able to manage projects and people - give examples of projects you've led at uni, or maybe a charity event you've organised. Research the industry and relate your own experiences to it. Check the company's Vision and Values, and make sure you answer these directly.

Interview Advice:

Same as the interview stage, but make sure you really understand the industry - its challenges, innovations, trends - and know First's involvement in these. Make sure that you show confidence and enthusiasm, and interact well with the other candidates and assessors.

Graduate Operations Manager, FirstBus – Graduate at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Try to understand the business and ethos of the company. It is a very competitive process, with various interview stages. Focus on each one as it comes.

Interview Advice:

Be yourself.

Engineering Contracts Manager, Engineering at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Make sure you are in a position to/and happy to move around the UK for placements. This scheme relies on you being proactive with your own development, be prepared to have to work at creating your own development plan.

Interview Advice:

There is a very open, friendly and down to earth culture across all First Group businesses. If you successfully make it to our assessment centre make sure to use this time not only to "showcase" your skills but equally your personality. We want to get to know you and you should want to get to know those assessing at the interviews as you'll likely be working with them one day!

Rail Operations Management Graduate Trainee, at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Consider carefully what you want to get out of the scheme.

Interview Advice:

Make sure you think questions through before answering.

Operations Graduate, UK Bus at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Say why you would be relevant for the role based on past experience, that's a huge bonus.

Interview Advice:

Be honest, talk loud.

FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Application Advice:

Do not get too stressed with the numerical reasoning tests. The process is not to see who can get 100% in the time frame, it is there to test how you work out an answer and what logical steps you take. You don't need to answer 100% to pass.

Interview Advice:

Be yourself. As a company, FirstGroup appreciates genuine people who are down to earth and able to socialise as well as act professional. Come to the interview, be yourself, and let us see the real you. That's the person we will be working with, so we want to know what you're like just as much as how good your knowledge of the rail industry etc. is.
Also, the interview process is a time for you to assess us as a company. Ask yourself if you feel we are a company you could work for and be happy to be a part of. If you don't feel it is right, then don't feel afraid to say so. At the end of the day, nobody wants to work in a position they don't enjoy.

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Major Projects and New Fleets at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

-Don't try and be what you 'think' any companies that you are applying want you to be - be yourself.
-Operations can mean some odd hours and unglamorous locations - just have a reality check about whether that sort of environment is right for you.

(Rail) Operations Graduate Management Trainee, Rail Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Interview Advice:

Ensure you know the company's values and have an associated example of how you relate to them; talk about the importance of public transport to a city.

Marketing Graduate, Marketing at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Read broadly about the company and the sector; have a few opinions about it before you apply!

Interview Advice:

Be honest - you'll be expected to sign up to work funny hours and be thrown out of your comfort zone. If that's not what you want from your job then perhaps it's not for you.

Rail Operations Graduate, at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Practice numerical and verbal assessment tests, and if you're invited to an assessment centre do your research on the company.

Interview Advice:

Give SMART examples of the experiences you've had.

Operations Management Graduate Trainee, Rail at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Be open minded and enthusiastic. The transportation industry others a wealth of experiences and daily challenges for those who are willing to get stuck in.

Interview Advice:

Have a good appreciation for the challenges the industry faces, for example, technology, competitors and congestion.

Operations and Management Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Research core First Group competencies, and look into broader railway (and bus) environment - the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Interview Advice:

Full day assessment centre - be yourself, and don't let one bad session put you down. Selection is based on overall performance and attitude on the day.

FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Do your research, understand the values, be mentally prepared for the realities of the role/railway. It's not 9-5 in an air-conditioned office!

Interview Advice:

Be able to back up your words, don't be fluffy, have 'concrete' examples. Show reflection on your examples, even where things went well.

Operations Graduate Management Trainee, GWR at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Practice online tests, have a good understanding of the way the industry is heading and its challenges.

Interview Advice:

Research the industry and role and highlight how your strengths lie both in a technical and managerial capacity.

Engineering Graduate Management Trainee, Great Western Railway at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Read through corporate documents on www.firstgroup.com, understand the company's aim and core values.

Interview Advice:

Always consider how your answers relate to the company's aim and core values, all widely available on First's website. Provide evidence for your answers.

Operations Management Graduate Trainee, at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

It is not 9-5 and you need to be good at talking and relating to a wide range of people.

Interview Advice:

Be open and honest.

Graduate Manager, at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

It's a sector like no other - people skills and determination to make a change are crucial. We're a sector in dire need of new ideas and fresh thinking.

Interview Advice:

Answer honestly and try and get experience in any area that involves managing a team. This scheme is to develop managers not necessarily technical skills.

Graduate Trainee, Bus at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

If you are the kind of person who requires a varied role that offers different challenges day after day, someone who would get bored sitting in an office and completing mundane tasks, then this is the industry for you. Jut get involved in any capacity and before long you will be working on issues and challenges you would have never previously envisaged.

Interview Advice:

The First Group Graduate application process is a challenging one, as is any graduate application process. Rail knowledge is not essential, the organisation is looking for customer focused people with great strategic skills. On this basis, come in with a positive attitude, let your personality shine through and demonstrate you have an analytical and strategic mind in solving issues.

Operations Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Ensure that you would be confident to take on a management role straight after the graduate scheme.

Operation Management Trainee, at FirstGroup
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Interview Advice:

Take your time when answering interview questions, think how your answers relate into the companies core values.

Engineering Management Graduate Trainne, at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Get some experience under your belt first.

Interview Advice:

Sell yourself as a 'go anywhere, do anything' individual. But, you've got to mean it. Be passionate.

Operations Graduate, Rail at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Plenty of research. Try to get some experience of the products. Be proactive, go mystery shopping etc. Show willingness to be taken out of comfort zone.

Interview Advice:

Research around the company but mainly just be confident, be honest and be yourself. First are looking for real personalities to fit into the business. Not just a person with experience or a degree. Being open and honest goes a long way.

Graduate Engineering Management Trainee, Engineering at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Be honest with your experience and see how it can be applied to working in an environment most graduates won't be used to.

Management Trainee, Bus at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Supply some evidence of extra curricular activities to set you aside from all those with the same degree level as you.

Graduate Engineering management trainee, Engineering at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

1. Be passionate about the industry
2. Be willing to try new things and experiences

Operations Management Trainee, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Have an open mind and put yourself foward for all opportunities.

Interview Advice:

Long interview process. You need to be used to assessment days and competency questions.

Mangement Graduate, Rail at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Be Honest. You will get questioned on your CV.

Study the company, aim to know a vast amount to ensure you understand the questions.

Interview Advice:

Mystery Shop, actively go and try our products and provide feedback and suggestions

Understand and appreciate how important health and safety culture is at the core of our business and relate this back to your interview questions

Relate the businesses core values of the business to previous roles or uni experiences.

Explain clearly the links between uni experience/job experience to how they could be applied within the business

Act confidently naturally and be friendly. The business needs a good personality.

Graduate Engineerng Management Trainee, Engineering at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

If you don't want to be stuck behind a desk day in day out, apply for a role at this company. You will be challenged on so many levels. It is easy to complete the same task over and over and become an expert. Here you will be pushed out of your comfort zone on a daily basis. You will be allowed to express yourself in some difficult environments and really challenge the skills you have developed. Overall, you will have great fun and meet lots of new people that will no doubt change your life!

Interview Advice:

Understand the companies CORE Values. Ensure that you can display these values across the whole of the Assessment period. Have fun and most of all, be yourself!

Operations Graduate Manager, First Great Western at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Research the company and the industry/sectors it serves - consider the current economic climate of the industry and the importance of both safety and the customer experience.

Interview Advice:

Again, consider safety and the customer in everything you do. First Group are looking to develop future leaders through this scheme, future leaders for the business and the wider industry, so consider how you would lead a team (of various sizes), what skills you have already developed and what skills you want to develop through the scheme. There's no problem with being ambitious but back it up with clear intentions/actions from previous experiences/university.

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Rail Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Research into the company's values thoroughly especially its commitment to safety.

Interview Advice:

First are looking for the next generation of leaders who can transform and keep the business evolving so be prepared to say things like "I have looked at the way they do X in this industry, it is something that the Rail/Bus industry would really benefit from because of Y" etc.

Graduate Operations Manager, at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Be yourself and show your personality. Also research the field your applying for and make sure you understand the potential roles that you will be experiencing during your placements.

Interview Advice:

Do your research on the company ethos and think about whether it aligns with your own values. Also be prepared to back up your statements.

Engineering Management Graduate, Rail at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

PREPARE. Do your work experience. Know what you're talking about.
BE enthusiastic.
BE PREPARED to go the extra mile.
SHOW how you will make a difference to the business.
SHOW you have people skills (i.e. can you have a 5 minute conversation with an absolute stranger and not feel awkward?)
SHOW how you can communicate effectively.

DON'T feel like you have to know everything about trains or transport, that is really not necessary.

Interview Advice:

Be calm,
Be prepared to show a range of examples illustrating your competencies,
I used examples from my work experience in the transport industry as university examples are shared by every single person applying.

Management Graduate, ScotRail at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Really research the company and think whether you would be suited to the industry or not

Interview Advice:

I was asked what I saw the future of transport to be? What are the threats and opporunties for the business. I was asked examples of times I was committed to safety and where I led teams.

Operations Management Trainee, at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Have a good understanding and knowledge of the sector you are applying for

Interview Advice:

Practice competency questions and focus on people/communication skills

Rail Engineering Graduate, Rail Engineering at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Confidence and understanding. Learn about the companies core values and show interest in the industry, its effect on the economy and the vehicles used throughout. For the engineering roles learn about maintinence tasks and the importance of good reliable and safe maintinence practices.

Interview Advice:

Industry Knowledge?
Engineering maintinence?
Companies core values?
Previous work experience?
University experiences?
How experiences relate to role?

Graduate Engineering Management Trainee, Engineering at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Be passionate about the Transportation industry, as with most jobs, ensure that you actually like the field that you are eventually going to start your career in.

Interview Advice:

Most people working in the Transportation industry are transport enthusiasts, so it wouldn't hurt to name a few buses or train classes in an interview, if the opportunity arose. This is sure to show your passion and enthusiasm for the industry, if it doesn't then it at least suggests that you have a genuine interest in the industry.

Bus Operations Graduate, at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Candidates need to be adaptable and flexible as much as possible.

Interview Advice:

Be yourself!!

Engineering Graduate, Sheffield at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Fully research the role and the industry so you know it is for you.

Interview Advice:

Safety and customer service are key talking points.

Graduate Trainee Manager, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Find out as much about the company as you can, such as current and previous projects and their overall company goals. Also get as much advice as you can about answering competency based questions.

Interview Advice:

Find out as much about the railway and bus division as you can, such as previous, current and upcoming projects and events.

Graduate engineer, at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Read up on the company, the graduate scheme and the industry. Make sure it is the sort of company you want to work for and the scheme offers you what you want from it.

Interview Advice:

Prepare for a normal interview, review what you've done for the last few years - internships, projects etc. - and make sure you know the basics about the company and the industry they work in. They don't expect you to be an expert but do want to see that you have taken some time to understand what you are applying for and that you are committed to taking the role if they offer you it.

Rail Engineering Graduate Manager Trainee, Rail at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Have an interest in the industry and something extra curricular that makes you stand out (it would be great if these were the same thing).

Interview Advice:

Be engaging and talkative. Be yourself.

Graduate Engineering Management Trainee, Management at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Take time with your application and try to understand the values of the company. Demonstrating how you reflect these is key to your application and remember it's a customer service industry.

Interview Advice:

Think about how you have handled demanding customer based situations. Often it is the approach that the example demonstrates that's important; not necessarily the example itself.

Management Graduate Trainee, Group at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Ensure you do your research on First Group and the background of the business. Then focus your ideas on the area of business you intend to join.

Stay aware of current issues by reading the website, news, transport magazines.

Interview Advice:

Know your information, be confident in your ability and relax.

Operations graduate management trainee, FCC at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Great customer service is all important.

Interview Advice:

Be as enthusiastic as possible. Review the corporate responsibility statement on the group website before interview.

Operations management trainee, Operations at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Be yourself and demonstrate how you are inline with the First Group values:
Committed to our customers
Dedicated to safety
Supportive of each other
Accountable for performance
Setting the highest standards

Also the 4 C's of the Railway:
Customers
Carbon
Cost
Capacity

Interview Advice:

Same as the applicaton advice but be aware of modern engineering maintenance techniques like lean, RCM and 5s.

Rail Engineering Graduate, First Great Western Engineering at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Research the business before applying. Learn about the industry structure and its challenges.

Interview Advice:

Prepare examples in advance for competency based questions.

Management Graduate Trainee, Bus Operations/Commercial at FirstGroup
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Application Advice:

Research the company and current market affairs surrounding the industry. Prepare presentations thoroughly, be enthusiastic and positive and eager to take on responsibility.

Interview Advice:

SWOT Analysis
Your strengths/weaknesses
General overview of yourself and your characteristics and how they match the companies Values and competencies.

Commercial Graduate, at FirstGroup
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Best:

Progression opportunities and the investment in myself as a graduate.

Worst:

Prehistoric terms and conditions across the bus industry that need dragging into modern times. One company should have one set of terms and conditions and it should be streamlined across the entire business.

Operations Management Graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
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Best:

It is large and diverse and offers a lot of security.

Worst:

Longstanding ways of doing things, sometimes a disconnect between individual locations and the central team, not a lot of understanding of the other's role can lead to friction.

Bus Operations Management Graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
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Worst:

Slow to change.

Graduate, GWR at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Innovative and committed to new carbon-neutral technologies.

Worst:

Some areas are left behind in terms of capital expenditure.

Bus Operations Management Graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

- Give you responsibility from an early stage
- Care about their employees
-Great progression opportunities

Operations Management Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

The size of the company provides opportunity, plus they do significant rail work which makes for interesting insight in other industries.

Worst:

The companies poor reputation and its history of not looking after customers particularly well.

Bus Operations Management Graduate, Operations Management at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Lots of responsibility and inclusion in the wider business.

Worst:

Salary and benefits package is not in line with colleagues who work for the operator on non-graduate contracts.

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Rail Division at FirstGroup
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Best:

Scale/size of company - so many opportunities

Worst:

Their reputation

Rail Engineering Management Graduate, South Western Railway – Engineering at FirstGroup
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Best:

Moving into innovative areas, there are many locations and different working environments to get involved in, the management team have an open door policy to ensure they get the best out of their staff.

Worst:

Adapting to changing technologies can be slow for some regions.

Bus Commercial Management Graduate, Divisional Commercial at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Good safety ethic
Good support networks
Good graduate cohort

Worst:

Graduate scheme differs a lot and support/direction you receive varies greatly depending on your manager

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Rail Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Very supportive, lots of different opportunities because it is so big.

Worst:

It is huge, so many different aspects and business focuses.

Bus Operations Management Graduate, First Bus at FirstGroup
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Best:

The grad scheme are supportive if you need help.

Worst:

There are not as many benefits as e.g. TOC

Management Trainee, Management Graduate at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Opportunities for involvement and progression. Chance to meet and work with people you might not otherwise meet.

Worst:

Slow reaction to advances, particularly technological

Operations Management Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Very supportive of the courses I need to attend and allow good communications at these times. A lot of opportunities arise and I am able to work in all different fields

Graduate Rail Management Engineer, Engineering at FirstGroup
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Best:

Individual TOCs/OpCos are filled with highly knowledgeable and passionate colleagues who are more than happy to support and share knowledge. Everybody I have interacted with has been very courteous and positive.

Worst:

Can be difficult to get things done at operator level due to an overcomplicated process from the wider Group.

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Rail Operations at FirstGroup
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Best:

A large company spread across the country and across different transport modes, there are always a huge number of opportunities available within FirstGroup, ideal for someone with an interest in many areas of passenger transport. This diversity and size, as well as the "always-required" nature of the transport industry, also means good job security.

Worst:

Not a fault of the company as such, but the nature of the rail industry means First is never guaranteed to retain a rail operation for more than a few years, potentially necessitating either relocation or being employed by an alternative operator.

Also, owing to events largely outside its control, and in common with most large transport operators, First has a poor reputation amongst some passengers.

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Rail at FirstGroup
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Best:

Recognition of good practise, and willingness to try new ideas

Worst:

Often lack of communication between departments

Operations Management Graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

The range of experience.
The huge amount of support and advice available.

Rail Engineering Managment Gradute, GWR at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Focus on working with you to aid your develop
Listen to your thoughts and act upon them
Large array of operations to get involved in

Worst:

Organisation and co-ordination could be improved at times

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Rail Graduate at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

There is a lot of training available. In our roles if there's something we feel that we need, it's a simple email away and we eventually get supported.

Worst:

-

Rail Operations Graduate, Rail at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Flexible working
Team-work
Progression Opportunities

Worst:

Communication
Planning
Project Managment

Rail Operations Managment Gradaute, Railway at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Investment in training and development

Worst:

Budget constraints on key functions of the business

Operations Management Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

The encouragement I receive as a graduate to keep pushing myself and move forward into higher positions.

Worst:

Sometimes come across negative attitude from workers who have been in the industry for decades. Sometimes attitude is difficult to alter.

Operations Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Meeting new people, having a good support network around you

Worst:

moving to different locations every 8 months

Bus Ops graduate, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

The salary; trainings offered; my colleagues; my manager

Worst:

Sometimes things can seem last minute

Operations Management Graduate, Various at FirstGroup
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Best:

The different locations across the country. The support for travelling to those different locations is great on the scheme. The majority of people you work with in First Bus are supportive and good to work with.

Worst:

When there are restructures in the business the confusion and consequences can sometimes make some environments difficult to work in.

Bus Engineering Management Graduate, Bus Engineering at FirstGroup
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Best:

Lots of opportunities, lots of investment in the people

Worst:

Heavily unionised which leads to a lot of people who are demotivated as they have been in the same role for too long

Duty Station Manager, Operations at FirstGroup
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Best:

Everyone is willing to help.

Worst:

There are 500 hundred drivers to take control of.

Graduate Manager, Bus Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

sector we are employed in as gives chance to make a difference.

Worst:

big company = slow to react.

Driver Standards Manager, Rail Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Day-to-day operations are diverse and present new challenges all the time.

Worst:

The treatment of female managers by the bus drivers and/or engineers - it is very difficult to gain their respect.

Litigation Assistant, Insurance at FirstGroup
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Best:

Very large organisation so lots of opportunities available

Worst:

Sometimes lacks the personal touch of companies I have worked for in the past.

Driver Manager, Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

People, opportunities and 'family feel' atmosphere.

Worst:

n/a

Operations and Management Graduate, First Bus at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Supportive.
Invest in your future.
Value graduates.

Worst:

Turbulent time for the industry.
Often unclear succession planning.

Project Engineer, Major Projects at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Open to change and very supportive of their Graduate program.

Worst:

A large, often complex company which can take some time to get your head around, particularly when it comes to decision making and following a chain of responsibility.

Engineering Management Graduate, Engineering at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

The company really invests in their Graduates and provides a lot of training.

Worst:

Things are done completely differently across each Operating Company - some people may see this as a downside, as it may take a lot of time to adjust to. (Some however may see this is another plus!)

Graduate Operations Manager, FirstBus – Graduate at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

The opportunities for funded training (from short First Aid training to MBA's!). First Group recognise that to help the business improve they must develop their people but equally to keep people engaged and motivated developing their areas of expertise or interest is also key. This support also extends to career development. You may start off in the business as a Driver Manager but later want to make a move into a Safety Role and then further down the line want to switch to a training role - regardless First Group remain supportive.

Worst:

I'm struggling to think of anything I really dislike! I think the lessons learned and best practise learnt from our Bus Divisions could be better shared with Rail and vice versa.

Rail Operations Management Graduate Trainee, at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Many sub companies i can work with.

FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

The ability to spend long periods of time at different rail companies allows you to see how different sized organisations handle every day processes and times of disruption. It is great to get this exposure of different practices.

Worst:

In spending time at different rail companies, you can find yourself moving around the country for living and this can have an effect on your personal and social lives.

Rail Operations Management Graduate, Major Projects and New Fleets at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

Career progression opportunities

Worst:

Attitudes of some staff who refuse all change or progress outright.

(Rail) Operations Graduate Management Trainee, Rail Operations at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

The company is large so there's lots of opportunities to move around and work in different areas; the company has a formal graduate training programme so graduates can do different courses and qualifications; the people are generally friendly and helpful.

Worst:

Limited opportunities for international travel.

Marketing Graduate, Marketing at FirstGroup
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Best:

Varied opportunities

Worst:

Lots of moving around, no one's responsibility.

Rail Operations Graduate, at FirstGroup
Read the full review »


Best:

The variety of opportunities.

Worst:

n/a

Operations and Management Graduate, Operations at FirstGroup
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