Rethinking recruitment: John Lewis Partnership


As a leading real estate recruitment agency, we are acutely attuned to the evolving trends and challenges shaping our industry, particularly amidst the allure of high-end retail outlets offering a natural progression route for jobseekers eyeing a transition into the property sector.

One recent development that has sparked both admiration and scrutiny is the bold move by the John Lewis Partnership to publicly disclose their interview questions. This unprecedented step has ignited a fervent debate within the recruitment sphere, resonating with our commitment to foster transparency throughout the hiring process.

Empowering candidates:

The decision by the John Lewis Partnership to share interview questions openly has been met with widespread acclaim from industry professionals. At its core, this initiative empowers candidates, particularly those who may grapple with interview anxiety or are neurodivergent. By demystifying the interview process, candidates are better equipped to prepare effectively, enhancing their confidence and performance during assessments.

Navigating integrity concerns:

However, the move towards transparency is not without its challenges. There is a palpable concern surrounding the integrity of responses, with apprehensions that candidates may resort to preparedness services or cutting-edge tools, such as generative AI, to craft flawless answers. This raises pertinent questions about the authenticity of candidate responses and the potential distortion of merit-based evaluations.

As recruitment increasingly embraces artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, major players in professional services have taken proactive measures to safeguard the integrity of their hiring processes. Firms like KPMG, Deloitte, PwC, and EY have implemented stringent protocols to curb the misuse of AI in candidate assessments. In light of these developments, the industry continues to deliberate effective strategies to uphold fairness and transparency in recruitment practices.

At GKR, our doors are open to offer support to job seekers navigating their job search. Our team is available to provide interview support and guidance, ensuring candidates are well-prepared while staying true to their authentic selves. For personalised assistance, don't hesitate to contact our team today.