THE MANAGEMENT TRAINEE PROGRAM (MTP) INTERVIEW
The Management Trainee Program (MTP) Interview is administered by the Public Service Human Resource Management Agency of Canada's (PSHRMAC) Leadership Development Programs in collaboration with the Personnel Psychology Centre (PPC) of the Public Service Commission of Canada. This interview was designed to assess the competencies that enable managers to perform their jobs effectively. You will be assessed on a number of competencies that are related to successful performance in a leadership position. We know that you will find your participation in this interview a challenging and enriching experience that will help to guide your future career development.
THE INTERVIEW: CONTENT AND PROCESS
The MTP Interview is a structured interview, during which you will be asked to respond to a series of questions. Some of the questions ask you about what you would do given particular hypothetical situations, and other questions ask you to respond based on your personal experiences. The Interview Board will consist of trained and experienced interviewers. Each interview will take approximately one hour which includes preparation time prior to the interview.
The structured interview assesses the following four competencies found in the Key Leadership Competencies Profile:
- Values & Ethics
- Strategic Thinking
- Engagement
- Management Excellence
In addition, two other competencies important for successful performance in the Management Trainee Program will also be assessed:
- Oral Communication
- Behavioural Flexibility
THE RESULTS
All candidates who participated in the MTP Interview will receive a written assessment report that will include a description of the MTP Interview, the competencies assessed and a description of the candidate's performance.
For each candidate, three copies of the assessment report will be produced. One copy will be sent to the Management Trainee Program, one copy will be sent to the candidate, and one copy will be kept on file at the Personnel Psychology Centre. All candidates will be notified once the final selection decisions have been made.
PREPARATION
The interview for the Management Trainee Program focuses on the assessment of generic managerial competencies. As a result, you cannot study for the assessment process. You may, however, find the following tips helpful:
- Get a good night's sleep. You will be more fresh and alert; your concentration will also be better.
- Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the assessment site. The last thing you want to do is to start the day feeling rushed.
- Do not schedule any other business, such as important phone calls, on the day of the assessment. The fewer things you have to think about, the better you will be able to concentrate.
- Think of your past experiences in terms of the competencies. When you review the definitions of the competencies assessed in the structured interview (see below), it may be helpful for you to think about your past experiences and how these experiences have provided opportunities for you to demonstrate these competencies.
- If you have a disability and require testing accommodations, be sure to notify those in charge of the interview administration well in advance of the interview date so that they can take the necessary steps to determine the appropriate accommodations.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
If you have any questions regarding the program or process, please contact the Management Trainee Program at the following address:
LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES FOR THE MANAGEMENT TRAINEE PROGRAM ASSESSMENT PROCESS
Values & Ethics – Integrity and Respect
Public Service (PS) leaders serve Canadians, ensuring integrity in personal and organizational practices, and respect people and PS principles, including democratic, professional, ethical, and people values. They build respectful, bilingual, diverse and inclusive workplaces where decisions and transactions are transparent and fair. They hold themselves, their employees, and their organizations accountable for their actions.
Strategic Thinking – Analysis and Ideas
PS leaders advise and plan based on analysis of issues and trends, and how these link to the responsibilities, capabilities, and potential of their organization. They scan an ever-changing, complex environment in anticipation of emerging crises and opportunities. They develop well-informed advice and strategies that are sensitive to the various needs of multiple stakeholders and partners, reflect the strategic direction of the PS, and position the organization for success.
Engagement – People, Organizations, Partners
PS leaders engage people, organizations, and partners in developing goals, executing plans, and delivering results. They lay the groundwork by building coalitions with key players. They mobilize teams, building momentum to get things done by communicating clearly and consistently, investing time and energy to engage the whole organization. They use their negotiation skills and adaptability to encourage recognition of joint concerns, collaboration, and to influence the success of outcomes. They follow and lead across boundaries to engage broad-based stakeholders, partners, and constituencies in a shared agenda and strategy.
Management Excellence – Action Management and People Management
PS leaders deliver results by maximizing organizational effectiveness and sustainability. They ensure that people have the support and tools they need and that the workforce as a whole has the capacity and diversity to meet current and longer-term organizational objectives. They align people, work, and systems with the business strategy to harmonize how they work and what they do. They implement rigorous and comprehensive human and financial resources accountability systems consistent with the Management Accountability Framework (MAF). They ensure that the integrity and management of information and knowledge are a responsibility at all levels and a key factor in the design and execution of all policies and programs.
Oral Communication
Managers communicate with clear meaning to ensure that their messages are understood. Their communications are credible and persuasive. Managers present information in an organized manner with an appropriate depth and level of language.
Behavioural Flexibility
Managers modify their interpersonal style as necessary to effectively interact with different people in a broad range of contexts. Managers are open to change and are able to utilize a broad range of behaviours. This allows them to meet operational commitments while responding appropriately to changing circumstances and new priorities.
