2 rounds of interviewing- one round at a nearby hotel & conference centre, another round at Fingal's offices. Questions were relatively similar in both interviews. Make sure to have a solid understanding of FCC ahead of time.
I interviewed at Fingal County Council (Dublin, Dublin)
Interview
The interview process is independently carried out by the Public Appointment Service. It is a skills and competencies based interview process. It involves filling a 'pre-screening' and in-person interview. The relevant competencies include strategic management and change, delivering results, performance through people and personal effectiveness.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What is the most difficult decision you had to make yourself
I applied online. I interviewed at Fingal County Council (Blanchardstown) in Nov 2023
Interview
I had an in-person interview at the Crowne Plaza hotel in Blanchardstown. There were two interviewers and the interview lasted about 20 minutes and was mostly competency based. It was only 4 days ago so haven't heard back yet. I was told the interview was preliminary and the successful candidates would be called for a second interview. The selection process will be panel based.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
- Tell me about your current role.
- Tell me what you know about the council/structure.
- What do you think are the 3 main priorities for the council?
- What are your 3 greatest achievements?
- Tell me about a time where you had to work under high pressure
- How would you facilitate change?
- Tell me about a time where you had to deal with a difficult customer/colleague
- What would you contribute to the council?/How would you be a good advocate for the council?
- Why do you want to work in the public sector?
- How do you destress after work?
- How would you communicate effectively in writing?
- Tell me about a role where you had most responsibility
- How do you maintain/develop your skills?
- What do you think are the 3 most important skills for the role?