The data gathered from the 345 companies surveyed in the 2023 AHECS Graduate Market Survey reveals the "recruitment and selection methods" that Irish companies use to screen graduate applicants in the initial stages of the hiring process.

89% of employers required a CV and cover letter at the application stage, while 42% used an online application form. 58% of employers use pre-screening questions, 24% use Application Tracking Systems, 20% use aptitude tests and another 20% use personality questionnaires. 9% use video applications.

Since the transformation of work by the COVID-19 lockdown, 77% of the companies have continued to opt for "virtual interviews" and 44% use telephone interviews. In terms of the types of questions asked, 54% use competency-based questions and 33% use strength-based interviewing. 31% use asynchronous video interviews and 14% of the companies use assessment centres which combine a variety of selection methods. 24% of companies require candidates to give a presentation as part of the interview process.

Now that you are aware of the most commonly used selection methods, you can prepare to get your best result at each stage of the job application process.

Click Next to learn how to prepare to engage with employers.