NHS Interviewing - ADVICE!

[Mama8474749]

Hi,

I recently undertook an interview for a new NHS trust (have worked in the NHS for 10 years).

Myself and my current colleague where they only two people interviewed. Hiring manager told me we scored the same so they had to look at application forms... they appointed my colleague.

It's not sour grapes but is it normal to appoint someone who does not meet desirable criteria over someone who does? We both clearly met essential but desirable required certain qualifications I held but successful candidate does not.

Feeling a bit robbed so some advice would be nice as to if this is normal practice?

IME the NHS hire who they think they would prefer to work with, who is better value for money, was it a nursing post. I guess they also look at your personal statement and goals.

No, not a nursing role. Administrative Support role.

In my experience I reckon it's just if your face fits. For a recent band six interview they approached my ex manager to apply for the job. He had very few of the essential criteria and needless to say was upset about performing poorly at interview.

I interview lots in the NHS for admin roles. Sometimes it does come down to who would be the better fit for the team over everything else. I interviewed a very experienced PA once for a job role. She was by far the best candidate on paper and also interviewed really well. However, the way she came over in the interview was very pushy and our gut instinct told us she would be difficult to work with. We went with another candidate who had less experience, but felt like a better fit overall.