International SOS Security Specialist Interview Questions
& Process

I sent in my application online back in August. About a month later, I got a call for a phone interview. The interviewer was really nice and professional to start, and it seemed to go pretty well. I was actually told I was one of the few people chosen for an assessment day that was supposed to be just a couple of days after the phone interview. The interviewer called back about 3 days later, like they said they would, and confirmed the hiring manager was interested in inviting me to the assessment day the very next day. But again, nobody contacted me to set up the specific date and time as promised. I tried reaching out to the interviewer multiple times via email and phone, not just on the day I was supposed to have the assessment, but also in the following days and weeks to see if there were any updates on my application. I never heard back. A colleague mentioned I was supposed to get a call back on my mobile, so we double-checked my number was correct, but I still haven't heard anything since then.

Due to Covid-19, all the interviews and assessments were held virtually. It started with a screening call from HR. Then, a Zoom interview with the senior administrator who manages the security specialist team. Following that, there was a series of assessments: i) a phone role play test where you had to mimic call operations of a security specialist and deal with a client, ii) writing a travel security alert, iii) writing a client security brief unique to their request, iv) a general knowledge test, and v) a panel interview with Directors. The entire interview process, although virtual, was extremely seamless and well-facilitated by the senior administrator, who was warm, friendly, and willing to share a lot about the work of the organisation and the role. Directors were also amiable and even gave some prompt, encouraging responses during the panel interview. Overall, it was an enjoyable experience with the organisation and I learnt much about the role and the company. For individuals passionate about a career in security, I would highly recommend applying for this organisation/role.

It was a good interview day that tested every aspect of my ability to do the role, from report writing to advising clients over the phone under tight deadlines. However, I never received any promised feedback. The recruitment department also didn't respond to my requests for feedback, so I've assumed I was unsuccessful and haven't reapplied for anything else. I find this unprofessional and think their recruitment department needs an overhaul to prevent this from happening again.