Getting a Job at Dell
Headquartered in Round Rock, Texas, Dell is an American multinational computer company that develops, sells, repairs, and supports computers and related products and services. The company was founded in 1984 and has grown to become one of the world's leading technology companies. Dell's mission is 'to be the most successful computer company in the world at delivering the best customer experience in markets we serve.'
Dell operates in 180 countries globally and employs over 165,000 people at their headquarters and around the world. Being such an admired and respected company in the industry, positions at Dell are highly sought after and therefore the application process is often very competitive. To land a job at Dell you will need to go through a multi-stage application process that evaluates your suitability for the position.
Each stage of the application process is covered in the sections that follow.
Dell Values
During the application process, Dell will be evaluating your alignment to their core values. It is therefore essential to familiarise yourself with these beforehand:
- Customers
- Winning Together
- Innovation
- Results
- Integrity
Types Of Roles At Dell
You'll find a range of career opportunities at Dell, whether you are an experienced professional or just starting out in your career. Available jobs are listed on Dell's careers page, where you can filter positions according to the job category, location, type etc.
Opportunities at Dell are broad, with the company offering something for almost all types of skillset and qualifications, from Software Engineers to Manufacturing.
Dell offers a range of opportunities for those just starting out in their careers, including internships, development programs, and graduate programs. These are also available in different areas of the organisation to fit your career ambitions.
The internships are usually reserved for those currently working towards a degree. They may run during the summer for around 8-12 weeks or could be longer programs that run during the academic year.
The graduate and development programs are targeted at graduates or entry-level candidates, giving them the opportunity to explore a variety of experiences as they rotate around different areas of the company. Again, these vary in duration and requirements, but you can find out more on Dell's careers website.
Hiring Process at Dell
Positions at Dell are competitive, so as you might expect, the hiring process is rigorous, consisting of multiple stages including an online application, online assessments, virtual interview, and an assessment centre.
Dell Online Application
After you have found the position you would like to apply to, you must submit an online application. If you don't have one already, you will need to create an account on Dell's careers page.
You will then need to upload a resume/CV, followed by some basic personal information. After this, you will need to provide some information on your education and previous work experience.
The online application will be your first impression on the hiring team/recruiter, so make sure your resume/CV is up to date and tailored to the role, and take some time to answer the questions in detail.
Dell Aptitude Tests
If your application is successful, you may be asked to complete one or more psychometric assessments, depending on the position you applied for. These assessments are mainly provided by Cut-e(Aon), Hogan, and DDI. Some of the tests you may be given include a numerical reasoning test, verbal reasoning test, personality questionnaire, or even word/excel exams.
Dell Personality Questionnaire
A personality questionnaire is used to determine your personality traits and characteristics, which can then be used to predict how you might behave in a work environment and in the position you are applying to.
The questionnaire will present you with a series of statements such as 'I work well with others', and you will need to mark them as 'true' or 'false', depending on how they reflect you.
There are no right or wrong answers in a personality questionnaire, but Dell will be assessing how well your traits might fit with their culture and values, so you should be strategic and consistent with your responses.
Dell Numerical Reasoning Test
A numerical reasoning test measures your ability to deal with data presented in the form of graphs, tables, and charts. The questions will ask you multiple choice questions that require you to analyse and interpret the data and use basic arithmetic calculations to reach the correct conclusion.
The test does not involve complex mathematics, however, it is timed which adds additional pressure and challenge.
The best way to prepare for numerical reasoning tests is to brush up on your basic mathematics such as percentages, ratios, and fractions, and practice sample numerical reasoning questions under timed conditions.
Dell Verbal Reasoning Test
Verbal reasoning tests measure your ability to quickly read, understand, and analyse information presented in dense passages of text. You will be presented with a statement relating to the text and will have to determine if the statement is 'true', 'false' or 'cannot say' based on the passage.
This test will require you to filter through the text and pull out key pieces of information to answer the multiple choice questions. The best way to practice this skill is by taking sample verbal reasoning questions.
Dell Virtual Interview(s)
If you are successful in the online assessments, you will be invited to attend a virtual interview via InterviewStream. This will be an opportunity for the hiring team to get to know more about you and your background, and also a chance for you to learn more about the role and what it's like to work at Dell.
The interview will involve a number of competency questions, where Dell will be looking for examples of how you have demonstrated the necessary skills and competencies required for the position you are pursuing. Therefore, you will need to be prepared with examples to back up your responses.
You should prepare by looking back on your academic and professional history and considering how these could be used to show your suitability for the position.
What Is It Like To Work At Dell?
Dell is widely recognised as a great place to work and build a career, winning multiple awards such as one of Forbes 2021 Best Employers for Diversity and one of the World's Most Ethical Companies 2021. The company is known for their inclusive and engaging culture, with several strategic initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion.
Employees at Dell benefit from flexible work arrangements that allow them to choose from full-time remote to days on campus to job sharing, which allows for a better work-life balance that suits each individual. Employees also enjoy a range of benefits such as healthcare, gym memberships, and a generous pension plan.
Top Tips To Getting Hired At Dell
Research The Company
Dell will be assessing your knowledge of the company and its place in the wider industry. Doing some research on Dell's key milestones, goals, values, and projects will help set you apart from other candidates. It can also help you ask insightful questions which show that you are keen and engaged with the position.
You can find some great information on the company's 'About Us' page, careers page, and social media pages.
Practice Dell Tests
The most effective way to prepare for the Dell online assessments is to take some practice numerical reasoning tests, verbal reasoning tests, and personality questionnaires. This will help familiarise yourself with the format and style of questions in the tests, which will help build your confidence going into the real test.
If possible, try to take practice tests under timed conditions in an area free from distractions. Make sure to review your answers after you complete a test, as this will help you identify possible areas of weakness that you need to focus on in your preparation.
Be Yourself
Being yourself during your interviews allows you to show the interview the authentic you, and is likely to make you more comfortable during the interview. Trying to be someone you think Dell is looking for is likely to come off as disingenuous. You want to demonstrate your suitability for the position, whilst also letting your unique personality shine through.
Be Honest And Open
It's important to be honest and open during the application. Don't over exaggerate your strengths or hide your weaknesses. Being honest will add to your credibility and is likely to make you more likeable and trusted. It will also mean that neither you nor the company will be unpleasantly surprised should you get the job.
