Surinder Nijjer Chairman of Fortel Services Guides Year 10 Students Through Mock Interviews

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In an effort to nurture the talents of tomorrow’s workforce and prepare them for the challenges of the professional world, Fortel Group recently participated in a unique initiative at Ernulf Academy St Neots alongside Skanska and The Rotary Club. Maisy Knox (Supply Chain and Marketing Assistant) and Veleta Smith-Carter (Group HR & Payroll Manager) attended the Academy in April to conduct mock interviews with the pupils. Fortel has a commitment to community engagement and believes in the power of mentorship.

The event aimed to provide students with a hands-on experience of what a real job interview entails, offering them valuable insights and constructive feedback to enhance their interview skills. Through simulated interview scenarios, students had the opportunity to showcase their strengths, address weaknesses, and gain confidence in their abilities.

Fortel Group’s involvement in this initiative underscores its dedication to fostering the next generation of talent and investing in the development of young professionals. By sharing their expertise and industry knowledge, the representatives from Fortel Group played a pivotal role in shaping the students’ understanding of the expectations and dynamics of the professional world.

During the mock interviews, students were evaluated on various aspects, including their communication skills, professionalism and critical thinking. Each session was tailored to simulate real-world interview situations, ensuring that students received practical and relevant feedback to help them refine their interview techniques for the future whilst also instilling a very key statement in the pupils ‘Always be yourself. Never change to become someone or something you aren’t!’

The interactive nature of the sessions allowed students to engage directly with professionals from Fortel Group, enabling them to ask questions, seek advice, and gain valuable insights into career paths. This firsthand interaction with professionals served as a source of inspiration for many students, helping them to envision their future goals and aspirations more clearly. Fortel Group handed the pupils a golden ticket which was given to pupils to enhance their confidence and to allow them to make the most of every opportunity they are given. 

As the mock interview sessions concluded, both students and representatives from Fortel Group expressed enthusiasm about the experience. For students, it was an invaluable opportunity to gain practical skills, confidence, and insights into the world of work. For Fortel Group, it was a rewarding experience to contribute to the personal and professional development of young individuals and to invest in the future generations.

Fortel Group’s participation in the mock interview sessions exemplifies its commitment to social responsibility and its dedication to supporting youth development initiatives.