Assessment
Writing about web page http://www.faststream.gov.uk
Just got back from doing an “e-Tray exercise” for the faststream [civil service] assessment procedure. Very interesting indeed. To summarise what it was, from the faststream site itself:
The main part of the event is the e-Tray Exercise. This is based around a realistic simulation of a typical Fast Stream job. You will be given an on-screen briefing that includes familiarisation with the system and the resource materials provided before the exercise begins.
The first part of the exercise will present you with an email in-box containing various emails. You have to deal with each email by reading the message and choosing from a list of possible actions which one you will take. You can use the resource materials to inform your decisions. As the exercise progresses, more emails arrive. This first part of the e-tray lasts around 50 minutes. The second part of the exercise builds on the first. You will be asked to produce some written work that relates directly to the material in the first part of the exercise. You have access to all the material used in part one and the decisions you took. You are allowed one hour for the second part of the e-Tray.
It was interesting, and quite high pressure. I really don’t know how I did – know I got at least one thing totally wrong, but hopefully that won’t be enough to scupper my application.
I really want this job.
December 11th, 2004 at 22:34
COMMENT:
hiya, just noticed your blog entry on the civil service e-tray exercise. Stupid question, but what is the dress code (if any) for the afternoon? I’m doing it next month and feeling a bit nervous! Though maybe what I’m going to wear should be the least of my worries…..
Thanks!
December 11th, 2004 at 23:44
I turned up in jeans and a t-shirt, some people were suited and booted. You don’t meet anyone from the civil service, just someone from the recruiters (parity?) who tells you how to use the computers.
December 17th, 2004 at 16:17
Hi Max,
I have never done anything like an e-Tray exercise before and wondered if you have any tips at all? I’m really worried I will totally mess it up! Mine’s next week.
Cheers,
Dan
December 18th, 2004 at 00:52
Dan,
Don’t worry about it, it’s all clear and explained well. Just take it easy, but do keep a good eye on the time – it really flies by :
)Remember to go back and look at the background info if you’re not sure about things – there is lots of information in there, although suprisingly well hidden ;)
December 18th, 2004 at 16:30
Cheers, should be ok then providing my brains switched on…!
Fingers crossed, see you at the assessment centre!
April 16th, 2005 at 15:49
I really enjoyed the e-tray exercise and passed it with flying colours – failed on maths since I’m innumerate though and the assesment centre was a joke. This was for the then DTLR, and most of the candidates were muppets. I didn’t get the job of course.
Screw them.