Careers at Experian
Experian is one of the largest global information services in the world. With locations in 44 countries and more than 17,000 employees - Experian provides business-to-business as well as direct-to-consumer services that provide clients with the ability to take control of their financial health. Experian does this by innovatively collecting, analysing and processing data.
Experian Application Process
No matter where in the world you apply to work for Experian, you can expect that same approach - as the company prides itself on having a global way of working, referred to as 'The Experian Way'. This well-defined application process is multi-staged and uses varied selection tools to identify the perfect candidates.
The stages of the Experian application process are:
- Online application
- Online aptitude tests
- Telephone or video interview
- Competency-based interview
The online aptitude tests taken will be based on the type of role a candidate has applied for - this could be anything from analytics to branding and marketing.
We recommend candidates research Experians' culture and values to ensure that this, along with a respect for data, comes across at each interview stage - no matter what department they operate in.
Experian Online Application
The Experian online application is simple to complete.
To start with, find the role you would like to apply for on Experians' Career Centre Page, which can be filtered by location. From here, you upload your resume along with some basic contact information and possibly initial screening questions, such as your work history or why you want to work for Experian.
Try to ensure the resume you upload has been tailored towards a job at Experian. Always strive to show your alignment and understanding of the company's mission and values. For example, Experian expects a 'One-Experian' collaborative mindset - think about where you can highlight this in your resume.
Experian SHL Aptitude Tests
Due to the high number of applications Experian receives, as well as its' high expectations of employees - the company requires all candidates to complete a series of aptitude tests, allowing the recruiter to quickly identify the most adept candidate for the vacancy, without bias.
SHL is one of the leading providers for online psychometric tests, a particular benefit to Experian is the number of languages SHL tests are available in - 30 to date - so the 'The Experian Way' can be maintained in global recruitment practices.
Whilst tests can vary based on specialty, most applicants can expect to take the following tests during the Experian application process:
Experian Numerical Reasoning Tests
A numerical reasoning test is designed to measure how well you deal with a range of mathematical problems. Whether you're a natural mathematician or not, this timed test will challenge your ability to its capacity.
You'll be presented with questions that test your core mathematical skills such as addition, subtraction, division and multiplication to solve common concepts as well as your ability to interpret, analyse and draw conclusions from data - a desired skill in the Experian workplace.
As there is a limited amount of time to complete this test, the best thing to do is prepare, using online practice tests. These will highlight areas of improvement before it's too late and familiarise you with the format.
Experian Verbal Reasoning Tests
Verbal reasoning tests assess your ability to analyse and comprehend passages of written information. Throughout, you will be presented with paragraphs of text, in which you'll be required to determine whether a statement regarding the content is true, implied truth, or false.
Experian uses this to highlight candidates with excellent communication and comprehension skills, both essential for any corporate career.
Remember, there will be distractors within the text to confuse you. Focus on extracting the exact information a question asks for. The best way to prepare for this verbal reasoning test is to practice timed questions.
Experian Diagrammatic Reasoning Tests
The diagrammatic reasoning test is used to identify the strongest problem-solvers in the talent pool.
By using both abstract and non-verbal information, such as shapes, patterns, and sequences - the test invites candidates' logical-reasoning skills to be exercised. Candidates must be able to determine the relationship between limited information provided and identify what the next point in the sequence would be based on this relationship.
If you're not used to this style of test, it can become overwhelming. The style of questioning, teamed with its timed nature calls for calmness - which can only come with preparation. There are plenty of practice diagrammatic reasoning tests online to support your preparations.
Experian Situational Judgement Tests
The situational judgement test (SJT) section of the online aptitude tests is designed to measure how you are most likely to respond to workplace scenarios in real life. The test is a way for Experian to understand you on a behavioural level, and if you'd make a good team fit.
Questions can contain 'distractors' - so be sure to read the questions with care. If in doubt, return to 'The Experian Way' values before re-approaching the question. Answers are most commonly submitted with a sliding scale metric, for example, rating a scenario solution from 'least' to 'most' effective.
Practising free online situational judgement tests is the most effective way to prepare for your Experian application.
Experian Telephone or video interview
If successfully shortlisted following the online aptitude tests, a member of the Experian team will get in touch to conduct a virtual telephone or video call interview.
The purpose of this is to match the individual to their application. The recruiting team has all the data on you now - something that Experian thrive with - but it's time to evidence your 'on-paper' persona, with your real one.
Experian will be looking to see how capable you are of holding a professional conversation - especially in a virtual environment - as well as how naturally you embody the company's culture and values.
Be prepared in a quiet, calm environment that is guaranteed to receive a good signal to help the interview proceed smoothly - oh, and don't be afraid to show your unique personality - it might be something your prospective team needs.
Experian Competency-based Interview
Think of this final-stage interview as an opportunity. This is your last chance to pull the pieces of the application together and showcase why you're the ideal candidate.
Experian advises applicants to answer questions using the STAR method, to convey skills with clear context. If you are unfamiliar with this method, it goes like this:
- Situation – What is the context?
- Task – What were your responsibilities and objectives?
- Action – What action(s) did you take?
- Result – What were the outcomes or achievements of these actions?
Finally, Experian encourages candidates to find out more about the realities of working for a global company - so prepare a handful of questions that will help you be confident Experian are the right employer for you.
