At CGI, we want all candidates who engage with us to be set up for success. The interview is one of the most important stages of our hiring process, and we’re committed to ensuring it’s fair, consistent, and focused on what truly matters.
To give everyone an equal opportunity, all candidates for a role are asked the same core set of questions. Sometimes interviewers can be dazzled by great interview skills and forget what really matters. As such, we’ve overhauled our question set to target real skills and experiences, and to hone in on what you can learn at CGI.
We’re also keen to continue fine-tuning the process, so we give all our candidates the opportunity to provide feedback via our satisfaction survey after the interview. We took the time to sit down with some of our Australian CGI Partners to discuss their tips on acing your CGI interview like they did.
Geraldine Olea, Senior Consultant - Space, Defence and Intelligence
What did you do to prepare for the interview with CGI?
Before my interview with CGI, I engaged in thorough research. This involved reading into the company's background, its key projects, and its global impact. Additionally, I familiarised myself with the profiles of the individuals who would be interviewing me. This proactive approach ensured that I entered the interview equipped with a well-rounded understanding of CGI's operations and the interviewers' backgrounds, enabling me to establish meaningful connections and facilitate a more insightful conversation during the interview process. This strategy also alleviates any pre-interview nerves.
What’s been your favourite question and answer in an interview?
One question that stood out to me as particularly impactful was, "What am I looking for in my next role/future career objectives?" This question not only allowed me to articulate my career ambitions and aspirations clearly but also provided an opportunity to showcase how my goals aligned with the organisation's objectives. By offering a thoughtful response, I could effectively communicate my value proposition to the interviewers and provide an honest answer.
What do you recommend interviewees to do during the interview?
I highly recommend that interviewees come prepared with a set of insightful questions. Having at least 3 well-thought-out questions demonstrates both interest and initiative. Not only does this allow candidates to gain valuable insights into the role and the company culture, but it also provides an opportunity to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level. By asking meaningful questions, candidates can better assess the interviewer's perspectives and gain a clearer understanding of the organisation's dynamics. This demonstrates preparedness but also displays genuine interest in the role and the company.
Jesica Ruiz, Senior IT Business Analyst
What did you do to prepare for the interview with CGI?
First, I identified who the interviewers might be (I looked for them on LinkedIn). Then I researched the structure of the team I’d be potentially joining, and found out who the manager was. It was also important to learn about CGI as a whole by going to the website and understanding the company’s core business and corporate values.
Probably, most importantly, I had a copy of the job description at hand, and I identified the key responsibilities of the role. This really helped me talk about my skills with experience and relate to them with confidence.
What do you recommend interviewees to do during the interview?
Show up early (or if online, make sure everything works perfectly), make a good impression with your first greeting and ask questions! Some questions that I like to ask the interviewer include:
- Is this role new? If not, how has it evolved?
- Is there scope for career progression?
- What does a typical day look like?
- Who are the key stakeholders?
- What are the main challenges and opportunities the business faces?
- What training opportunities are available?
- From your perspective, what is it like to work here?
- What is the next step?
Madeline Kingsley - Associate Software Engineer
What did you do to prepare for the interview with CGI?
I reviewed the job description and my CV to refresh myself on how my skills and experience aligned with the outlined requirements. I also researched CGI to gain an understanding of the company’s ethos and the services offered. I also made note of any unanswered questions I had so that I could ask them during the interview.
What do you recommend interviewees to do during the interview?
Take a second to think about your answers before responding to the questions, ask your own questions, and be yourself!
Steve Clare, Business Consultant - Space, Defence and Intelligence
What did you do to prepare for the interview with CGI?
A little homework on CGI, re-read my CV, and thought about hypothetical Q&As.
What’s been your favourite question and answer in a CGI interview?
It was along the lines of: “What is something you’re proud of that you’ve accomplished in your career and why?”
What do you recommend interviewees to do during the interview?
Sell your wins. Interviews are nerve-wracking but conversation comes easier when you talk about things you’re genuinely excited about.
Your CGI Interview Checklist
- Research CGI thoroughly - Familiarise yourself with CGI’s business areas, values, recent projects and global impact so you understand what the company stands for and can speak confidently about why you want to join.
- Review the job description - Keep the role’s responsibilities and required skills front of mind so you can clearly connect your own experience and strengths to what CGI is looking for.
- Prepare structured examples following the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) - Have a few ready-to-go stories that illustrate your skills, achievements and problem-solving experience in a concise and compelling way.
- Bring meaningful questions - Prepare thoughtful questions about the team, role, projects, growth paths or company culture — this shows genuine interest and helps you assess fit.
- Test your tech (if online) - If your interview is virtual: join a few minutes early to make sure your video, audio and internet connection are working smoothly.
- Understand the team and role - Do some research on the team you might join (where possible) and think about how the role fits into the broader business, and what you could bring to it.
- Reflect on your career goals - Be ready to articulate what you’re looking for in your next role and how that aligns with your long-term career path. This helps interviewers understand your motivation and potential fit.
