I applied online. I interviewed at Versus Arthritis in Dec 2025
Interview
There was a task to prepare in advance (writing a briefing), and I was given interview questions in advance too. Interviewers were very friendly and understanding of nerves, the questions were quite specific to the role.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Can you describe a research method or approach you have used to develop
policy?
I applied online. The process took 3 months. I interviewed at Versus Arthritis in Jan 2025
Interview
Shortlisted to interview. As expected, received the interview task a few days before. Unfortunately this was quite vaguely defined and broad, not quite matched to the job role (felt much more suited to a campaigns/public affairs role) and not particularly up to date. It was also only at this point I was informed there'd be a potential 2nd round.
This didn't fill me with much confidence about joining a clearly defined working environment in the role, so due to this and a few other reasons I politely dropped out.
I never received a response from the hiring team - simply a Teams cancellation notice for the interview a few days later. I would have been happy to pass this feedback on directly but I was unfortunately ghosted following my withdrawal.
I'm sure this isn't reflective of all teams at the organisation, and I should say a big positive was receiving the questions in advance. This is a progressive move that helps get the best out of candidates. However, the experience did remind me that job applications are a two-way process.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Please tell us about a piece of policy you have been involved in developing.
I applied online. I interviewed at Versus Arthritis
Interview
Submit a fairly standard application form first.
Second, submit a design task. This was mostly artworking – adding content to a templated small booklet. The design element was mostly around the selection and cropping of images, and page layout within some limited parameters.
Finally, an interview with a panel of three people.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Please talk us through just one or two examples of your design work.