At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Recruitment team and learn how we attract top talent for Wickes.
- Company: Wickes, a leading home improvement retailer with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Voluntary placement with lunch and travel covered, plus personal development focus.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with opportunities to grow and be yourself.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in recruitment and see how a major retailer operates.
- Qualifications: Positive attitude, curiosity about business, and good communication skills.
Interested in retail? Spend a week with us on our Head Office Work Experience and see how a national business runs behind the scenes.
The team: Our Recruitment team are the matchmakers of the business. We’re responsible for finding the right people with the right attitude to join our team. You’ll get a front-row seat to how we attract candidates, from creating eye-catching job adverts to helping coordinate the interview process. It’s a fast-paced, people-focused role where you’ll see exactly what it takes to build a diverse and talented workforce for a major national retailer.
You’ll learn:
- Behind-the-scenes of the hiring journey, from a job opening to an offer.
- How we use our brand and values to attract the best talent in the market.
- Hands-on experience in how we review applications and support managers in finding their next great hire.
What you’ll do:
- Attend our monthly Recruitment meeting which will give you insight into all the activities and projects which happen in our team.
- Visit our local Watford store.
- Spend time with different members of our team across our Operations and Support Centre recruitment, learning about how we recruit for different roles within Wickes.
Who we’re looking for: What matters most to us is your positive attitude and potential. And you’d need the following:
- Be 16 years or over.
- A positive energy and you like a fast-paced environment!
- You’re curious about how business works.
- You’ve got good communication skills.
What we offer: Our work experience is a voluntary placement focused on your personal development. While there is no salary, we’ll cover your lunch and travel each day.
Our recruitment process:
- Apply: Upload your CV and tell us why you’re interested in joining Wickes.
- Interview: A short online chat during the week commencing 18 May so we get to know each other better.
- Start of your work experience: join us for an action-packed week from Monday 6 to Friday 10 July 2026.
About Wickes: What we’re most proud of is our culture. We’re inclusive, supportive and down-to-earth, with a strong sense of teamwork and shared ambition. At Wickes, you can be yourself, ask questions and grow at your own pace.
We’re a multi-channel home improvement retailer. We generate £1.6bn+ in revenue, operating across 230 stores and online, and supported by over 8000 colleagues.
Work Experience - Recruitment team employer: Wickes
Wickes is an excellent employer that prides itself on a supportive and inclusive work culture, making it an ideal place for personal development. As part of our Recruitment team, you'll gain invaluable insights into the hiring process of a major national retailer while enjoying hands-on experience in a fast-paced environment. With opportunities to learn from diverse team members and a commitment to your growth, Wickes offers a unique chance to explore the inner workings of a thriving business in Watford.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Work Experience - Recruitment team
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your work experience, do a bit of research on Wickes. Understand our values and what makes us tick. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of our recruitment journey.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive during your week with us! Don’t just sit back and observe; ask questions, share your thoughts, and get involved in discussions. This is your chance to shine and show us your positive energy and curiosity about how we attract talent.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Take the opportunity to chat with different members of our Recruitment team and other departments. Building connections can open doors for future opportunities, and who knows, you might find a mentor along the way!
✨Tip Number 4
Reflect on your experience! After your week, take some time to think about what you learned and how it aligns with your career goals. This reflection will not only help you grow but also prepare you for any future applications or interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Work Experience - Recruitment team
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Catchy CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it pop! Highlight your skills and experiences that align with our recruitment team’s vibe. Keep it clear and concise, and don’t forget to show off that positive energy we love!
Personalise Your Cover Letter:When you upload your CV, include a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about this opportunity. Share your curiosity about how businesses work and what makes you a great fit for our team. We want to see your personality shine through!
Be Yourself in the Interview:If you get an interview, relax and be yourself! We’re keen to know more about you and your potential. Show us your enthusiasm for the role and ask questions about our recruitment process – we love a curious mind!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and keep everything organised. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wickes
✨Know the Company
Before your interview, take some time to research Wickes. Understand their values, culture, and what makes them tick. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Wickes is looking for a positive attitude, so make sure to convey your excitement about the opportunity. Share why you're curious about how businesses operate and how you can contribute to the recruitment team’s success.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during your interview. This could be about the recruitment process, the team dynamics, or even what a typical day looks like. It shows that you’re engaged and eager to learn more.
✨Practice Communication Skills
Since good communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might want to do a mock interview with a friend or family member to build your confidence and refine your responses.
