Richard's Career Journey

The application process…
“I was informed about the scheme by an executive search company. Until then I hadn’t even realised that Argos had a graduate scheme!”

“The application process was professional yet friendly. It involved a lot of contact time, a phone interview followed by face to face interview, and finally the assessment day.”

“There were no online aptitude tests - which appealed to me and again reveals Argos’ focus on personality. All the time, I knew who to call if I had any questions or needed advice.”

The assessnent centre...
“Surprisingly enjoyable! It was a long and tiring day but despite the stakes, the atmosphere remained relaxed.”

“There were a lot of people from head office who came down to meet us during the recesses over a cup of tea.”

“It was clear a decision had been taken to create an atmosphere and schedule that got the best out of us on the day.”

Why Argos...
“The people I met throughout the recruitment process were all people that I got on with straight away, without even trying. The right culture was something that was very important to me and Argos had it. That, coupled with the quality of the scheme itself when compared to others, led to an easy decision.”

“The right cultural fit was key for me but also I wanted a scheme that would develop me to the best of my abilities at the beginning of their career.”

“As I say, at first I didn’t realise Argos had a graduate scheme - but now, having spoken to friends on other schemes and experienced part of the process myself, I believe it to be one of the best in the UK. What makes it even more special is that as it only takes 4 – 5 people per year, that quality is concentrated on you.”

Being chosen...
“Total shock, followed by exhilaration! I was on the train home from the assessment day when I got the call. Let’s just say everyone on the carriage knew I was pretty happy about something.”

Getting Started...
“I’m currently working in-store as a Customer Services Manager, which involves putting the customer first and doing all we can to satisfy their needs - amongst many other responsibilities. For example, it’s my job to oversee promotional changes within the store. I’m also responsible for the recruitment of Christmas temps and their review process. So, now all the temps are recruited, I will be reviewing their progress with them on a weekly basis.”

“I’m trying to make a great job of everything that’s put in front of me, while still acknowledging that I have a lot to learn.”

“The next stage in my development will be a placement in Commercial Trading.”

The programme...
“The scheme is special for several reasons. Firstly, for the access and support you have from very senior figures within the company. Every graduate has a sponsor and a mentor to guide them through the process - both of which will be senior figures whose help and advice will be among the best in the whole retail industry.”

“It’s also special because of the breadth of experience you receive. You’ll work in stores first, in a management position that allows you to learn the skills of management and leadership right from the off. You’ll then be placed around the business in key departments to give you unparalleled experience of a major retail company. Furthermore, there are only a handful of graduates each year - meaning you really can have an impact on how things are done.”

“On the Argos graduate scheme, you are absolutely not a cog in a machine, as with other schemes, but a somebody within the company from day one.”

The Culture...
“The graduate selection process makes personality as much of a priority as ability and that approach is replicated throughout the company. The result is a culture of friendliness and openness.”

“I told myself that if they’re taking this much time to assess my personality, then this must be a great place to work - and I was right.”

The future...
“Where do I see myself in 10 years’ time? In a senior position within the commercial trading department.”

Why should you apply...
“Join this scheme and you join a cutting-edge, friendly company where you will be developed more within two years than in anything else you can do.”

“The Argos graduate scheme is what you make it. All the tools are there - the access, the breadth of experience and the support - to ensure that whatever you put in, you will get out tenfold.”