I’m on the reserve list but haven’t sat any tests. Not 100% sure if my application has even been read or if they’ve just had too many to get through, maybe they’re holding off to see how many people make it through testing first.
Knowing how the recruitment process works for trainee train drivers, I can assure you your application will have been read by a member of the recruiting staff. Each of the sections of your application will be scored on a number of aspects including but not limited to:
Relevant experience/examples,
Quality of your CV (if asked for on the form)
Conciseness (use the STAR method in your forms when it asks for situations when you've demonstrated a certain behaviour etc.)
Spelling, punctuation and grammar
And other aspects too. You really do need to sell yourself well!
One way in which current serving railway staff can become unstuck on trainee driver application forms is by assuming that the person reading their form knows about their current role. Overuse of jargon is a big no no!
The fact that you are on the reserve list is a positive. Normally, only the top 5 - 15% of applications in terms of scores make it through the sift. Good luck all!