DMI INTERVIEW

[Trainee2be]

Good afternoon,

I am preparing for a DMI I have this week. I have read through previous threads and found very useful information so thanks to everyone who has shared something. However, I am still bit unsure of how to structure my answers in the manager’s interview. I used the STAR method in my MMI because the questions began with ‘Tell me about a time when” so I gave a specific example in detail.

The sample questions for the manager’s interview seem different to the MMI approach. So, for example, if I am asked ‘What skills do you possess that you think will be an asset to our team?’ I would list my relevant skills with some explanation of where I developed them rather than using the STAR method for each skill. Would that be the best way to respond?

 

[Trainee2be]

I just realised the title should just be DMI - I shouldn’t have added interview again.

 

[Daydr3am3r]

Which TOC is this for?

They are all slightly different depending on the TOC, but I’m fairness learn a bit about their values and any community engagement to be able to use this.

As for examples stick to STAR as they are still looking for examples of what you have gone and with a positive outcome at the end.

 

[Trainee2be]

Which TOC is this for?

They are all slightly different depending on the TOC, but I’m fairness learn a bit about their values and any community engagement to be able to use this.

As for examples stick to STAR as they are still looking for examples of what you have gone and with a positive outcome at the end.

Thanks! It’s for Southeastern.

 

[ComUtoR]

Thanks! It’s for Southeastern.

Do you know which DM is interviewing you ? Which depot is this for ?

 

[Trainee2be]

Do you know which DM is interviewing you ? Which depot is this for ?

It’s for Victoria.

 

[ComUtoR]

Vic is a mixed depot with both mainline and metro work, although its pushing towards more metro. Southeastern just got a franchise extension to November with an option for an April extension. Make sure you can get to work as Vic have early and late finishes.

Did you read the homework assignment ?

 

[Trainee2be]

Vic is a mixed depot with both mainline and metro work, although its pushing towards more metro. Southeastern just got a franchise extension to November with an option for an April extension. Make sure you can get to work as Vic have early and late finishes.

Did you read the homework assignment ?

Thanks for the info. I do drive so I’m hoping there’s a car park for staff if I’m successful. If not, I intend to take the train. I was given a sample shift rota and it seems doable.

I made lot of notes on TPWS and have been researching the company.

 

[ComUtoR]

Relax and be yourself.

 

[Stigy]

Good afternoon,

I am preparing for a DMI I have this week. I have read through previous threads and found very useful information so thanks to everyone who has shared something. However, I am still bit unsure of how to structure my answers in the manager’s interview. I used the STAR method in my MMI because the questions began with ‘Tell me about a time when” so I gave a specific example in detail.

The sample questions for the manager’s interview seem different to the MMI approach. So, for example, if I am asked ‘What skills do you possess that you think will be an asset to our team?’ I would list my relevant skills with some explanation of where I developed them rather than using the STAR method for each skill. Would that be the best way to respond?

Hi Trainee2be,

Although you've been given a couple of example questions which aren't competency based, don't assume you won't be asked any competency based (Give me a time when...) questions. The STAR technique is a good basis for answering questions under these conditions nonetheless (it enables interviewees to be concise at least). I recommend you reattach the company and base your answers to questions strongly with safety in mind. Safety is the most important thing, and is drummed in to railway workers from day one, due to the safety critical nature of railway work. Customer service comes a close second (especially when applying for a safety critical role). Think about what you see as good attributes of a driver and focus around them (you may even be asked this) - Safety conscious, punctual, reliable, able to concentrate for long periods of time, able to adapt to ever changing environments etc etc etc.

It's been said already, but just be yourself and try and channel your nerves.

Good luck!

 

[Lewis H]

Thanks for the info. I do drive so I’m hoping there’s a car park for staff if I’m successful. If not, I intend to take the train. I was given a sample shift rota and it seems doable.

I made lot of notes on TPWS and have been researching the company.

Although I think it might be handy to show an understanding of warning systems on a train, I wouldnt personally delve too far specifically on one, because TPWS can be associated with different things, and you wouldnt want them to start asking you questions and catch you out on things you may not necessarily know.

For my DMI (with a different TOC) they asked what I knew about the company, general why do you want to do this etc, but the majority was based around describe a time you have done this that and the other, working as part of a team/alone, positions of responsibility, gone above and beyond, worked to strict rules and regulations. Its worth noting that these questions will again be asked again in the MMI.

Best of luck!

 

[ComUtoR]

Although I think it might be handy to show an understanding of warning systems on a train, I wouldnt personally delve too far specifically on one, because TPWS can be associated with different things, and you wouldnt want them to start asking you questions and catch you out on things you may not necessarily know.

It's required for a SE DMI.

 

[Trainee2be]

Thanks again!

I will definitely prepare for competency based questions as well.

I will do my best to relax. Even though I’m nervous, I am really looking forward to it and have really enjoyed the whole process- apart from the waiting game. Hopefully, I’ll report back with good news.

 

[S-Car-Go]

I've been reading this post since I have also just been offered a DMI with a different TOC. So grateful for all advice posted so far. Many thanks chaps!

 

[Timpg]

I probably already know the answer to this, but... is a structured interview just another name for DMI?

 

[Stigy]

I probably already know the answer to this, but... is a structured interview just another name for DMI?

It’s just another phrase for competency based interview. Just a standard job interview most companies use for these sorts of jobs.

 

[ComUtoR]

but... is a structured interview just another name for DMI?

DMI - Driver Manager Interview

 

[Timpg]

It’s just another phrase for competency based interview. Just a standard job interview most companies use for these sorts of jobs.

Cheers mate, I thought as much.

 

[Timpg]

DMI - Driver Manager Interview

Cheers mate

 

[PringlePopper1]

Hi trainee2be, good luck in your interview! Just a little help, but when you get to the depot, try and have a good look at the late notice cases and other info on the boards.

They may not ask you about them, but when I had my dmi, I made sure I mentioned what it was that I read on there, and it must have worked

With the TPWS homework, I tried to memorise as much as I could, where you would find TPWS, speeds before buffer stops etc. I also asked a few drivers any that stick out in their minds as ones that are most activated, just to show I had made the extra effort as it’s hard enough learning about the company, practice questions, trying to manage your nerves AND a two page information on TPWS!

Good luck though mate

 

[Trainee2be]

Hi trainee2be, good luck in your interview! Just a little help, but when you get to the depot, try and have a good look at the late notice cases and other info on the boards.

They may not ask you about them, but when I had my dmi, I made sure I mentioned what it was that I read on there, and it must have worked

With the TPWS homework, I tried to memorise as much as I could, where you would find TPWS, speeds before buffer stops etc. I also asked a few drivers any that stick out in their minds as ones that are most activated, just to show I had made the extra effort as it’s hard enough learning about the company, practice questions, trying to manage your nerves AND a two page information on TPWS!

Good luck though mate

Cheers! I intend to get there super early so I will check the notice boards before my interview.

 

[PringlePopper1]

How did it go T2b??

 

[Trainee2be]

I think it went okay. I wasn’t as nervous as I thought I would be. It’s hard to know how you come across though. There were moments where I got clear positive feedback, but at other times Just a nod then moving on. By the end, they gave nothing away in terms of how it went.

Overall, I had a positive experience at the depot and in the interview. However, I think it could go either way. I’ve seen people come on here thinking they passed because “it went well” only to find out they were unsuccessful. Fingers crossed that my best was good enough.

 

[PringlePopper1]

I know exactly what you mean, when I got home that day I couldn’t tell if went really well or mediocre. They are so hard to read it’s ridiculous.

Fingers crossed for you mate, I hope you cut the mustard

 

[Trainee2be]

Thanks! I was told I’ll be informed soon- by the end of next week. At least I won’t have to wait too long. I’ll let you all know the outcome.

 

[Stigy]

I think it went okay. I wasn’t as nervous as I thought I would be. It’s hard to know how you come across though. There were moments where I got clear positive feedback, but at other times Just a nod then moving on. By the end, they gave nothing away in terms of how it went.

Overall, I had a positive experience at the depot and in the interview. However, I think it could go either way. I’ve seen people come on here thinking they passed because “it went well” only to find out they were unsuccessful. Fingers crossed that my best was good enough.

From my experience, not knowing how an interview went has generally been a good sign for my interviews/assessments over the years. However, my DMI for GWR was the only one I have ever come out of thinking it went as well as I could have wished, and couldn’t see anything I could have improved on. I’m starting in July with them so it obviously went well. Good luck!

 

[Trainee2be]

From my experience, not knowing how an interview went has generally been a good sign for my interviews/assessments over the years. However, my DMI for GWR was the only one I have ever come out of thinking it went as well as I could have wished, and couldn’t see anything I could have improved on. I’m starting in July with them so it obviously went well. Good luck!

That’s great. Congratulations Stigy!

 

[Trainee2be]

I just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who gave me advice and encouragement. I passed the DMI and have my medical next week

 

[Stigy]

I just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who gave me advice and encouragement. I passed the DMI and have my medical next week

Great news, congrats and well done!

 

[OneLowban]

Nice one, well done!

You’ve got a problem now, though.

You’ll have to change your username soon.