Reserve Defence Forces Recruitment 2015 **Update!**

kiddums

illeagles_mcc wrote: »

its the same test as pdf

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4MNrDmKi3Q&feature=player_embedded

if you dont turn up they probably wont entertain any more applications you make. you would be better off just giving it a go

Even if I am way off on the fitness in some parts?
I'm really going to embarrass myself with the push ups at the minute. Running and sit ups should be ok on the day tho.

discus

kiddums wrote: »

Even if I am way off on the fitness in some parts?
I'm really going to embarrass myself with the push ups at the minute. Running and sit ups should be ok on the day tho.

At least you're not bluffing yourself or anyone else. Just go for it.

illeagles_mcc

if u are confident u can do the sit ups no prob and run a mile and a half in under 11.30 then 20 push ups shud be no big problem really

Doctor14

Make sure you do the pushups and situps the same way the army do them -
http://www.military.ie/careers/fitness-testing-centre/

I've seen people who can knock out 60 situps in a min with someone holding their legs struggle to do one without.

They are strict as to how they are done.

kiddums

discus wrote: »

At least you're not bluffing yourself or anyone else. Just go for it.

No point in bluffing

illeagles_mcc wrote: »

if u are confident u can do the sit ups no prob and run a mile and a half in under 11.30 then 20 push ups shud be no big problem really

I'm not that confident, I just think I can do it if I push myself.

Doctor14 wrote: »

Make sure you do the pushups and situps the same way the army do them -
http://www.military.ie/careers/fitness-testing-centre/

I've seen people who can knock out 60 situps in a min with someone holding their legs struggle to do one without.

They are strict as to how they are done.

Well f**k. I really struggle to do them with my feet held, haven't a hope doing them the military way.
I think my form for push ups is wrong too.

I'm really thinking this isn't going to work for me. Might just wait till the next recruitment.

brennan10

Kiddums...I just got word on Monday past for the fitness test this Saturday at Mc Kee. Last Saturday at a wedding I have a mishap of going over my left foot and tore some ligaments. Got this confirmed in Beaumont Hosp on Monday. I've kept the foot slapped up since and really surprised how it's healed in a very short period. I'm not unfit and able for the push up/sit ups no problem but the run was a major concern with the foot and having seen the doctor to get the cert signed on Tuesday I was told that I also have a slight Chest Infection that a course of antibotics should clear in the week. Started the run on Tuesday this week and ran out of puff at a KM but I'm pushing through big time and this morning made the 2.4km in 11.30 mins within two days...pushing through is the only way forward and when you feel you want to give up just remember 90% of the wanting to stop is purely mental or all in the mind! What have you got to loose? Best of luck!

concussion

We're still on track for recruit camp over the summer. Looks like some of the modules will be shuffled around so that there will be further weekend training during the summer after the full time training. I take most training plans with a hefty pinch of salt, but there are firm plans to induct and train our recruits without further loss of time.

DUB142

concussion wrote: »

We're still on track for recruit camp over the summer. Looks like some of the modules will be shuffled around so that there will be further weekend training during the summer after the full time training. I take most training plans with a hefty pinch of salt, but there are firm plans to induct and train our recruits without further loss of time.

Did any one here about the the PDF playing a much bigger role in RDF rec training? It was mentioned beffore in the past that the full 6 month training will be offered to the RDF so you would have PDF and RDF recruits training together?

MRnotlob606

its normal if i didn't get another email ?

Garzard

Do we know yet how many they're planning on recruiting?

Doctor14

Garzard wrote: »

Do we know yet how many they're planning on recruiting?

500 into the RDF.

With 1000 being lost out of the RDF yearly, 500 will only slow the process, although with figures now at about 1600, they should be near to hitting the dedicated mass who won't leave no matter what the Army tries to do to them. Then again, I said that last year when the RDF was about 2500 strong.
Fitness testing is kicking in this year so even the dedicated few may not have a choice about staying.

And the real bad news is that it looks like they won't even get 500 RDF recruits.... may not even get 250. While medicals and fitness are knocking some, 67% of applicants aren't even showing up for testing. But, if they aren't willing to show up for testing, does the RDF really want to give its few recruit places to people who aren't dedicated.

But the Potential Recruits that they are getting to show up.... they do look the business. Some VERY fit people in there. I had seen recruits in the past you would wonder where the hell they came from and who thought the RDF was a good place for them but the current bunch of potentials look the part.

Garzard

Doctor14 wrote: »

500 into the RDF.

With 1000 being lost out of the RDF yearly, 500 will only slow the process, although with figures now at about 1600, they should be near to hitting the dedicated mass who won't leave no matter what the Army tries to do to them. Then again, I said that last year when the RDF was about 2500 strong.
Fitness testing is kicking in this year so even the dedicated few may not have a choice about staying.

And the real bad news is that it looks like they won't even get 500 RDF recruits.... may not even get 250. While medicals and fitness are knocking some, 67% of applicants aren't even showing up for testing. But, if they aren't willing to show up for testing, does the RDF really want to give its few recruit places to people who aren't dedicated.

But the Potential Recruits that they are getting to show up.... they do look the business. Some VERY fit people in there. I had seen recruits in the past you would wonder where the hell they came from and who thought the RDF was a good place for them but the current bunch of potentials look the part.

Surprised to hear the test attendance is that low, I've my test tomorrow morning, and was always advised not to get hopes up on being selected due to such high competition. Is there a figure of how many applied?

rizzee

Garzard wrote: »

Surprised to hear the test attendance is that low, I've my test tomorrow morning, and was always advised not to get hopes up on being selected due to such high competition. Is there a figure of how many applied?

Very suprised myself, i've heard that too!

P.S , I also have my test in the morning, best of luck to you.

davetherave

Garzard wrote: »

Surprised to hear the test attendance is that low, I've my test tomorrow morning, and was always advised not to get hopes up on being selected due to such high competition. Is there a figure of how many applied?

I was away at the Brigade shoot last weekend and the Brigade EO told us that as of last Friday week there was 700+ applications for 2 BDE.

rizzee

Gatzard how did you get on this morning, were you in mckees? Roll on the interviews!

Garzard

rizzee wrote: »

Gatzard how did you get on this morning, were you in mckees? Roll on the interviews!

Had mine in McKee at 9:00 this morning. Fitness test is in the bag anyway! Managed the run and situps fine but still amazed how I passed the pushups. It's thirsty work without any breaks but having a proper breakfast and a day's break beforehand helped hugely. How'd you get on yourself?

Doctor14

davetherave wrote: »

I was away at the Brigade shoot last weekend and the Brigade EO told us that as of last Friday week there was 700+ applications for 2 BDE.

700 applicants for 2 Bde,

34% show up = 238
78% of that pass Physical & Admin tests = 186
Add in interviews and medicals and you are struggling to get maybe 160.

So maybe 350 by your figures for 2 Bdes and DFTC actually get in compared to 500 advertised for.

Ok, my figures are based on the evidence so far and may not reflect reality everywhere but I still don't think they are going to get near to 500 recruits.

BigDuffman

Doctor14 wrote: »

700 applicants for 2 Bde,

34% show up = 238
78% of that pass Physical & Admin tests = 186
Add in interviews and medicals and you are struggling to get maybe 160.

Where did you get those percentages?

rizzee

Garzard wrote: »

Had mine in McKee at 9:00 this morning. Fitness test is in the bag anyway! Managed the run and situps fine but still amazed how I passed the pushups. It's thirsty work without any breaks but having a proper breakfast and a day's break beforehand helped hugely. How'd you get on yourself?

Fair play to you! It doesn't matter if you struggled a pass is a pass! Flew through the sit ups and push ups no problem, did the run in 10:34, was happy enough with that. Had it at 11am in McKees so must've just missed you! Best of luck in interview!

Garzard

rizzee wrote: »

Fair play to you! It doesn't matter if you struggled a pass is a pass! Flew through the sit ups and push ups no problem, did the run in 10:34, was happy enough with that. Had it at 11am in McKees so must've just missed you! Best of luck in interview!

Cheers, well done yourself! Struggled a bit with push ups, still, a lot less than previously in the past week while practicing. Chuffed anyway, felt bad though for some of the lads who were knocked out - some looked devastated. Which barracks and section did you apply to by the way?

rizzee

Garzard wrote: »

Cheers, well done yourself! Struggled a bit with push ups, still, a lot less than previously in the past week while practicing. Chuffed anyway, felt bad though for some of the lads who were knocked out - some looked devastated. Which barracks and section did you apply to by the way?

That's great, will only get better in time too! There was about 10-15 out of 40 odd people in my group that failed, that's all! Applied to McKee , Cavalry RDF , you?

brennan10

To all those who have passed the prelimenary fitness stage good on you! Had mine last Saturday in McKee and passed. Really enjoyed the experience. Apparently interviews are now due to be held between April 28th - May 2nd in reference to 2Bde. Has anybody any experience regarding the interview stage or advice? I understand question structures will lean towards life experience and leadership qualities prehaps but if anyone has any other insights that would be appreciated....Thanks.

Garzard

rizzee wrote: »

That's great, will only get better in time too! There was about 10-15 out of 40 odd people in my group that failed, that's all! Applied to McKee , Cavalry RDF , you?

Signals in Cathal Brugha. :cool:

rizzee

I'm also in the same boat, nervous/anxious about questions they will ask etc if anyone could lend a hand?

Doctor14

BigDuffman wrote: »

Where did you get those percentages?

Based on a few different tests - as I said, may not be repeated around the country.

MRnotlob606

anybody here apply for the Naval service reserve and got a word back ?

rizzee

Just said i'd give the thread a quick bump - Does anyone have any information on the interview stage, i.e types of questions asked, what happens on the day etc etc. Only 1-2 weeks ontil they commence. Don't know what to look for, i've been on the RDF page online so just browsing around that but can't find anything of use.

Just want a heads up before I go in really, don't want to be all nervous etc on the day and not know what's going to happen, not used to interviews at all to be honest.

raider848

rizzee wrote: »

Just said i'd give the thread a quick bump - Does anyone have any information on the interview stage, i.e types of questions asked, what happens on the day etc etc. Only 1-2 weeks ontil they commence. Don't know what to look for, i've been on the RDF page online so just browsing around that but can't find anything of use.

Just want a heads up before I go in really, don't want to be all nervous etc on the day and not know what's going to happen, not used to interviews at all to be honest.

probably like a pdf interview to be honest

Garzard

Could just be my own impatience with everything but they sure are taking their time getting back to us with the next email regarding the interview. Is this because of the waiting process for the vetting forms to go through or has anyone gotten the email yet?

Rizzee I wouldn't have any tips for now as I've yet to do the preparation myself aside from recommending you dress smartly - eg. arrive in a shirt and tie. Even if it's just for the Reserves, it'll show them you're serious about the job. At the very least, from personal experience dressing well for these things greatly helps with your confidence. My brother said when he had his the Air Corps interview a few years ago, many lads arrived in tracksuits and runners, unshaven etc. Doesn't make a good first impression at all.

Unless they're going to putting us through more health and fitness tests on the same day as the interview I wouldn't wear sports gear in.

trellheim

This is the first time ever RDF has been had an interview process so there is no guidance available. That said knowing the history of the DF and the state, and what the different arms do, and why you applied to one rather than the other, know what the rank progression structure is, and what might be expected of a recruit in first 18 months, and how you can contribute to the organization.

rizzee

Garzard wrote: »

Could just be my own impatience with everything but they sure are taking their time getting back to us with the next email regarding the interview. Is this because of the waiting process for the vetting forms to go through or has anyone gotten the email yet?

Rizzee I wouldn't have any tips for now as I've yet to do the preparation myself aside from recommending you dress smartly - eg. arrive in a shirt and tie. Even if it's just for the Reserves, it'll show them you're serious about the job. At the very least, from personal experience dressing well for these things greatly helps with your confidence. My brother said when he had his the Air Corps interview a few years ago, many lads arrived in tracksuits and runners, unshaven etc. Doesn't make a good first impression at all.

Unless they're going to putting us through more health and fitness tests on the same day as the interview I wouldn't wear sports gear in.

Haven't gotten an email yet myself!

Yeah, I have the slacks and shirt all ready :cool: :pac: I'm sure they'll give us more information in the email, regarding whether there's a medical on the day or not etc.

trellheim wrote: »

This is the first time ever RDF has been had an interview process so there is no guidance available. That said knowing the history of the DF and the state, and what the different arms do, and why you applied to one rather than the other, know what the rank progression structure is, and what might be expected of a recruit in first 18 months, and how you can contribute to the organization.

Thanks for that, makes sense!

rizzee

Got my email for the interview next week!

Garzard

rizzee wrote: »

Got my email for the interview next week!

Same here, got it for Thursday next week. Thing is though I've college tests the same say worth a considerable percentage of my course. I replied to the email with a request for a date change to either Monday-Wednesday or Friday.

Not sure they'll give it to me though, anyone know how long the interview might take? I've to be in for it at 9:00am and my college tests start at 4:00pm.

Lockstep

I've heard nothing back so far. Anyone else hear from the 1st Southern Brigade?

MRnotlob606

I haven't even done my fitness test yet,

mcko

The amount of people who failed to turn up and those who did then failed the fitness is huge, I would be surprised if they turn anyone away at the interview stage.

Good luck to all those who got this far, anyone going for the NSR if you have any questions then ask.

rizzee

Garzard wrote: »

Same here, got it for Thursday next week. Thing is though I've college tests the same say worth a considerable percentage of my course. I replied to the email with a request for a date change to either Monday-Wednesday or Friday.

Not sure they'll give it to me though, anyone know how long the interview might take? I've to be in for it at 9:00am and my college tests start at 4:00pm.

Is your college near the barracks? I can't imagine the interview delaying you by that long! Tell you what - I've mine Wednesday morning at 9am, i'll get onto you straight away and say what happened in the interview and how long it took etc so you can see if you have to to head to your exam then.

Garzard

rizzee wrote: »

Is your college near the barracks? I can't imagine the interview delaying you by that long! Tell you what - I've mine Wednesday morning at 9am, i'll get onto you straight away and say what happened in the interview and how long it took etc so you can see if you have to to head to your exam then.

Problem's now sorted but thanks a million nevertheless - they got back yesterday and rescheduled my interview for Friday 1st. Pretty decent of 'em. Makes it handy now as I won't have to be preparing for it all week on top of studying.

discus

mcko wrote: »

The amount of people who failed to turn up and those who did then failed the fitness is huge, I would be surprised if they turn anyone away at the interview stage.

For god sake, how could anyone fail that test?!

rizzee

Garzard wrote: »

Problem's now sorted but thanks a million nevertheless - they got back yesterday and rescheduled my interview for Friday 1st. Pretty decent of 'em. Makes it handy now as I won't have to be preparing for it all week on top of studying.

No problem at all. Fair play to them, that's great news! The only study i'll be doing is on their website between now and then, will be taking notes!!

discus

Looking forward to the inevitable threads in a few weeks time... "What do I need to bring on camp?" Best of luck lads

JB400

Passed the fitness test on the 12th of April, but still haven't received word on a date for the interview..Is this the case for any others?

brennan10

Must be one of the first kicking off the interviews at Cathal Brugha tomorrow at 9am...here we go lads...all the best!

Garzard

mcko wrote: »

The amount of people who failed to turn up and those who did then failed the fitness is huge...

More places for us then! :pac:

rizzee

brennan10 wrote: »

Must be one of the first kicking off the interviews at Cathal Brugha tomorrow at 9am...here we go lads...all the best!

Best of luck!! Please share some info about the day, what happened, questions asked etc. etc. if you get a chance!!

brennan10

rizzee wrote: »

Best of luck!! Please share some info about the day, what happened, questions asked etc. etc. if you get a chance!!

Thanks rizzee! How the day went...well...myself and bout 6-7 lads arrived for 9am. We then moved to waiting area and organised in order for interview. A sheet will be given to state name, age, hobbies, achievements and work you had in last 3 years with respondsibities held. I was last to interview of the lads. Firstly an informal chat is held with a superior to explain what the panel want during interview and then to wait outside til called. The interview itself was a panel of 3 and quite formal but use your experiences to date. Questions centered around working under pressure/motivation/teamwork so have examples to hand...hope this helps!

rizzee

brennan10 wrote: »

Thanks rizzee! How the day went...well...myself and bout 6-7 lads arrived for 9am. We then moved to waiting area and organised in order for interview. A sheet will be given to state name, age, hobbies, achievements and work you had in last 3 years with respondsibities held. I was last to interview of the lads. Firstly an informal chat is held with a superior to explain what the panel want during interview and then to wait outside til called. The interview itself was a panel of 3 and quite formal but use your experiences to date. Questions centered around working under pressure/motivation/teamwork so have examples to hand...hope this helps!

Thanks for the reply!!

That's great, i'll have a lot of that prepared i'm doing a few notes etc. as we speak. Do you have to wait to hear from them now or do they tell you how you did on the spot? Hope it all went well for you!

brennan10

rizzee wrote: »

Thanks for the reply!!

That's great, i'll have a lot of that prepared i'm doing a few notes etc. as we speak. Do you have to wait to hear from them now or do they tell you how you did on the spot? Hope it all went well for you!

They ask the questions and you answer them best you can but don't waffle as time is precious. Apparently it'll take a few wks to hear whether successful or not either way. If all good date to be set for medical.

Garzard

brennan10 wrote: »

Thanks rizzee! How the day went...well...myself and bout 6-7 lads arrived for 9am...

Only 6-7 turned up??

brennan10

Garzard wrote: »

Only 6-7 turned up??

That was prob the amount approx scheduled for that time. Prehaps had more later in the day as they will for the rest of the week.