Working for Guardian News and Media: Frequently asked questions

The application and selection process

Q How can I find about more information about the vacancy?
Once you have carried out a vacancy search, simply click on the underlined vacancy title for more information about the role, a job description and a link to apply.

Q Can I submit a Speculative CV?
All applicants need to apply for a specific position via the website as the Guardian does not accept speculative CVs. However, we do offer a vacancy alert function that allows you to specify the job type you are looking for - allowing the job to come to you! Simply carry out a search via the Vacancy Search Page and you will see an option to register your email address for future alerts.

Q How do you go about selecting people?
The initial selection is via the application form. Candidates will be invited to attend a series of interviews on the basis of their application. Line managers from the area to which you are applying conduct these interviews. In some cases, aptitude and psychometric tests may also be used as may assessment centres and various skills based and technical IT tests.

Q How long does it take to let me know if I have been successful following an interview?
We try to respond to all candidates as soon as possible, usually within a week of the interview. However there are some occasions when delays are unavoidable - for example when interviews are spread over an extended period of time. In addition, in some cases we may not inform candidates that they have been unsuccessful until an offer has been accepted by the favoured candidate.

Q I applied to GNM a while ago and was unsuccessful, can I apply for other roles?
You are welcome to apply for other roles.

Q What do I do if I have a disability which could effect my interview?
If you have a disability, we will make any reasonable adjustments to ensure people with a disability are not disadvantaged compared with non-disabled persons through the selection process. If you are notified about being selected for an interview you will have the opportunity to contact the HR department (we welcome typetalk users) to let us know what reasonable adjustments you need to apply. We are a two ticks employer. This means we have made specific commitments regarding the employment of disabled people. As part of this, you are guaranteed an interview if you meet the minimum conditions for the job vacancy.

Q What opportunities are there for career development?
It's really important that the people who work at The Guardian have the skills and knowledge they need to reach their potential. That's why we have a dedicated Talent and Development team committed to building a structure to our learning and development offering that covers off the most commonly-requested needs. We have a core offering programme designed to address the key learning needs identified throughout the business as well as a Sales Academy providing bespoke training for all of our commercial teams, designed to equip staff with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career at GNM and beyond. We also offer a fantastic induction programme, individual coaching sessions, departmental away days and professional qualification support.

Working at GNM

Q How does GNM integrate with the environment and local community?
GNM has signed up to a sustainability vision and strategy with the ambition to become an environmentally regenerative company. For more information on our sustainability vision and the projects we are involved with please visit our website.

GNM has a number of long-term community partnerships with local schools and charities that employees are encouraged to get involved in. Activities include: primary and secondary reading, chess club, working with children with disabilities, conservation work, age concern and youth journalism mentoring.

Q What is the dress code at GNM?
Most departments have a dress code of smart/casual. However, we advise that you contact your line manager prior to joining to confirm what is deemed appropriate dress within that department.

Q What are the GNM offices like?
Our main offices in London are based in the award-winning Kings Place building situated on the Regents Canal in Kings Cross; a hub for music, art, dialogue which also provides world class conferencing and events. Since opening to the public in September 2008, a diverse and open minded programme has established Kings Place as one of Europe's leading cultural landmarks. Kings Place won Business Venue of the Year at the 2010 Visit London Awards. For more information on Kings Place please visit the website or take a closer look around our offices.

Q What is the local area like?
The GNM offices are located in Kings Cross and form part of the 'new' Kings Cross, a rapidly changing part of London. The Kings Cross development programme is one of the largest in Europe and is intended to engender the transformation and regeneration of the entire area. Our offices are a ten minute walk from Kings Cross tube station and only a ten minute walk to Angel.

Q What facilities are on site?
We have plenty of facilities on site including a canteen serving hot and cold food, a cash machine, a dedicated car park floor for cycles and motorbikes, showers and a bar and restaurant directly below our offices.

Q Is there the opportunity to agree flexible working arrangements?
We recognise the importance of a healthy work/life balance and give serious consideration to all flexible working requests made by employees in line with business needs.

Q What benefits are available to GNM staff?
There are many benefits and schemes available including both a pension and healthcare scheme,season ticket loan, holiday purchase, employee assistance programme, cycle to work scheme, dental plan, free eye tests and childcare vouchers.

Q Will I be able to join a pension plan?
The Lifestyle Plan is the contributory pension scheme run by Guardian Media Group. Subject to your terms and conditions of employment, all permanent employees automatically become members and receive a welcome pack containing information about the Plan when they join the Company. There's lots of information about the Lifestyle Plan on the website.

Q What other perks would I have?
Discounts and concessions including subsidised meals, snacks and drinks are available to staff in London and tickets to GNM sponsored activities are regularly offered on our company intranet. Staff also have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities including boxing classes, foreign language classes, the Guardian Angels choir, Pilates and Yoga.

Q What is the dress code at GNM?
Most departments have a dress code of smart/casual. However, we advise that you contact your line manager prior to joining to confirm what is deemed appropriate dress within that department.

Q Where can I find out more about GNM / GMG?
For more information on history, structure, brand and products please take a look at our websites for for further information on Guardian News and Media and the Guardian Media Group.

Today in pictures