We would strongly encourage candidates to read these Frequently Asked Questions before writing and submitting their application for a job vacancy. If you have any questions regarding the application process, please emails us on jobs@rainforestuk.org
Can I use AI when preparing my application?
We recognise AI can be a helpful tool in your job search. Here is our guidance on how to use AI and what is permitted and screened by our staff reviewing applications.
AI can be helpful for:
- Refining and structuring your own ideas and experiences before writing
- Researching publicly available information about RFUK and our work
- Checking spelling, grammar, and overall clarity
Please do not use AI to:
- Invent or exaggerate skills, qualifications, or experience you do not have
- Generate a generic application that does not reflect who you are
- Write your answers to application questions
Please note that submitted applications will be read by panel members who check for authenticity and score the applications against the person specification. Your application should always give an accurate and honest picture of your skills and experience, as well as why you are applying for the role.
What level of English/French is required for this role?
For roles where multiple languages are listed as an essential requirement (usually English and French or English and Spanish), candidates will be required to work in both languages as part of their day-to-day work. This is non-negotiable and an essential requirement to perform the job. Applicants who don't poses both language skills will not be shortlisted.
We grade written and spoken fluency according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, CEFR. If you are shortlisted for an interview, your language skills will be evaluated, and some interview questions will be asked in each of the required languages. For languages listed as desirable, we take them into account when scoring candidates, but only as an additional bonus and applicants are not penalised if they do not list these languages.
How should I respond to the Essential Person Specification?
When responding to the essential person specification, we are looking for clear evidence of your experience that demonstrates how you meet each requirement. It’s important not just to state that you have a skill or competency, but to show how you have applied it in practice. Avoid general statements such as “I have good communication skills.” Instead, give a practical example that demonstrates those skills in action. We recommend that you use the following format when writing your answers:
- Provide specific, real-life examples from your work, education, or voluntary experience
- Clearly explain what you did, how you did it, and what the outcome was
- Tailor your examples to match each essential criterion directly
We assess applications based on how well candidates demonstrate, through evidence and examples, that they meet the essential criteria. Providing succinct, relevant examples will significantly strengthen your application.
Online application form
We don't accept CVs and cover letters. We use an online application build in Cognito forms. This allows us to anonymise the applications before they are reviewed by the panel. The structure of the applications also allows us to better assess each candidate based on a structured approach. The application includes sections with
- Personal details
- Work history
- Education
- Personal statement (maximum 2000 characters or approx. 300 words)
- Questions on essential and desirable criteria (maximum 2000 characters or approx. 300 words per question)
- Skills and qualifications
You can Save the application and return to complete it later. Please ensure that your application is submitted before the stated deadline, by pressing Submit button at the bottom of the page when you are finished. Once you submit the application you will receive a confirmation email to the email you provided in your application.
If you have any questions regarding the online application system or require any reasonable adjustments, please do not hesitate to contact us on jobs@rainforestuk.org
What if I don't meet all of the essential requirements?
We would encourage candidates who don’t strictly meet all the criteria listed in the Job Description but are confident in their transferable skills to consider applying. Please note that this doesn't apply to language skills.
We value individuals who demonstrate motivation, a commitment to learning, and the potential to thrive in the role. When reviewing our essential and desirable criteria, remember that relevant experience can be demonstrated through academic studies, work experience (paid or voluntary), lived experience, skills, and achievements from any area of your life that relates to this role.
Can I ask questions before submitting my application?
We encourage candidates to reach out if they have questions about the role before submitting an application. But before contacting us, please take time to carefully read the Job Description and person specification and review any information available on our website about our work. Many common questions are answered in these resources, and doing this research will help you ask more focused, informed questions. For any other questions please email us on jobs@rainforestuk.org
What happens after I submit my application?
We carefully review all applications that fulfil necessary suitability such as the right to work and language requirements. The panel will usually shortlist up to 5 candidates. We will reach out to candidates to inform them that they have been shortlisted for the interview and arrange a suitable time and place for the interview with the panel. We will send detailed instructions on how to prepare for the interview.
If you haven’t heard from us within two weeks after the application deadline, this means your application has unfortunately not been successful.
Will I receive feedback on my application?
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application. However, if you are shortlisted and invited to interview, we will be happy to provide feedback. This will include feedback on your application and/or interview, as well as an explanation of our decision-making process. We aim to ensure that candidates who progress through the selection stages receive constructive and meaningful feedback to support their future job search.