Civil service reserve list

[Gingerteabag]

Hi, I recently applied for a role in the civil service, wasn't successful but was told that I would be put on the reserve list as I fulfilled their minimum requirements. Pretty much asssume this is just a way of letting me down gently, but wondered if anyone had any experience of these reserve lists and whether jobs do come up off the back of them?

I've also now had an email to tell me that my application is under active review, but I'm guessing they need to review the whole reserve list if there is a position available. Feels like primary school waiting lists all over again! Thanks very much

IME a job will often come up.

It’s a common thing now to consider people assessed as “above the line” for other, similar vacancies.

It means that on the day there was a better candidate. However if another similar role comes up within the recruitment cycle then you will be considered for it without being re-interviewed.

I was on the reserve list and within a month I was contacted and offered a job. Everyone in my team (of twelve) joined the Civil Service in the same way, though some were on a reserve list for six months or more before being offered a place.

Many thanks, I'll keep my fingers crossed then!