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Application Process

Applying for a job shouldn’t be complicated, but too often that’s the case. At IHG, we keep things simple by providing clear, straightforward steps and application-boosting advice.

We bring together clear steps with good advice

We want to keep life simple when you apply for a job. So, we’ve set out exactly what will happen and the steps you’re expected to follow. It’s important that you understand our application process so you can be prepared for each stage of recruitment. Below, you’ll also find some brilliant tips that can give you the best chance of success. 

Put it all together and you’ve got a handy guide to making an application. We recommend taking time to have a look before you start the process - it could help you open the door to our extraordinary world.

STEP 1

Your application

The first thing to do is create your application. You’ll need to click ‘Apply’ on our careers site (although some hotels accept applications in person). An accurate, up-to-date CV or resume will be essential either way. Bear in mind that some positions are with independently owned and operated franchise hotels. In those instances, IHG will not be your employer. 

STEP 2

Moving Forward

Once you’ve submitted your application, we’ll take some time to review it and check you’re right for the role. When we’re done, we’ll be in touch to let you know if you’ve been successful.

STEP 3

Interview

If it’s good news, the next step is an interview, either face to face or over the phone. In some cases, we’ll invite you to an assessment depending on the role you’re applying for. It’s all about two-way communication: feel free to ask us questions too.

STEP 4

Offer

If your interview is successful, congratulations! We’ll be making you an offer, either verbally or in writing.

STEP 5

Starting your job

If you accept our offer, we’ll agree a start date with you. This will depend on your job and notice period. Whatever your role, we’ll give you everything you need to get off to a great start. A full induction comes as standard at IHG.

Hints and Tips

You’d be surprised how many people don’t read the application form properly. Sometimes, their answers don’t match the questions because they’ve copied and pasted their CV from a previous application. Take time to read the application and job description thoroughly before you start to fill it in.

The next step is to enter your personal information as accurately as you can. Attention to detail is crucial and can save a lot of disappointment.

Be a STAR on your application form – use the STAR technique to show you’ve got the skills or qualities for the job. Take an example of when you’ve used them before and apply the STAR method:

Situation – this is the who, what, when, where and how. For example, perhaps the hotel you were last managing was in the process of changing their restaurant menu offering.

Task – what was asked of you? Maybe you were asked to work closely with the head chef to create a new menu and market it effectively to your potential customers.

Action – what did you specifically do to complete your task? You performed market research and held sessions with the head chef to create a new menu offering and developed a five-part marketing strategy to launch it.

Result – what were the results of your actions? Can you qualify this with figures? Your new menu resulted in a 25% increase in restaurant bookings, generating more profit and a review in a national newspaper.

A good CV is the first step to a successful application. Getting it right can be tricky, so we’ve got a few valuable hacks for you.

Tailor it – and keep it concise
Don’t use the same CV for every application. You need to tailor it for each role you apply for. Keep your work experience short and highlight all the skills that relate to the role you’re applying for. You don’t need to go into detail about jobs that aren’t relevant.

Include a career objective
Instead of a personal statement, why not include a career objective? Personal statements take up room on a CV when they could be part of your cover letter.

Shout about your achievements
CVs are your foot in the door – they make that vital first impression. Shout about your best achievements to give us a flavour of your personality and abilities. Certificates, education and qualifications: tell us about it all.

Play to your strengths
A cover letter gives you the chance to expand on your most valuable qualifications and experiences. We want to hear about the qualities that lend themselves to the role. And there’s no harm in mentioning the areas you’re looking to develop either. Communicate your enthusiasm to progress, learn and succeed. A few sentences are enough - nothing long or elaborate.

Keep it professional
While it’s good to play to your strengths, you also need to keep a professional tone. Be polite and respectful and check your spelling, grammar and punctuation. Try printing out a copy and proof reading it, rather than staring into your screen to spot the mistakes.

Closing the letter
Sign off your letter in the same polite and professional note. Maybe say that you look forward to having the opportunity to discuss your application in further detail soon.

FAQS

Got more questions?

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions for more helpful answers. To find your answer, click the link below.

Search and apply

Find and apply for your perfect role by browsing our opportunities here.

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