DHL Recruitment 2024/25 Practice Guide. Job Application, Interviews, Assessment Centre

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SUMMARY

Are you considering working at DHL? This is the ultimate guide for you. From the application process, tests, and interviews at DHL, find out all you’ll need to land a job at DHL across the globe, including the US and UK.

Check here for various aptitude assessments and video interviews to help you practice and prepare for your DHL recruitment.

Not sure if you should practice for DHL aptitude tests? Recent research has proven that 60-80% of candidates are rejected based on their aptitude tests results. It is also proven that practicing ahead increases your chances of being hired. 

IN A NUTSHELL

How to prepare for the DHL assessment tests and get the job?

1. Complete your DHL Online Application 

• Fill out the application form and attach a cover letter.
• Tailor your application to DHL values.
• Use language from job posts in your cover letter, CV and your motivational question answers. 

2. Practice for DHL Aptitude Test

DHL uses a range of aptitude tests for its recruitment. Depending on the role, these may include:

• Numerical Reasoning Test
• Verbal Reasoning Test
• Logical Reasoning Test
• Situational Judgement Test

These tests sift out 50-80% of candidates. It is important to practice aptitude test questions ahead and follow other key tips provided in this guide.

3. Record Mock Video Interviews of Yourself

Prepare for the DHL phone or online interview with recruitment staff by practicing typical interview questions you may encounter in your DHL interview. You should demonstrate your:

• Interest in DHL
• Deep knowledge of DHL’s values and work culture
• Critical thinking

You can practice with our video interview platform which contains standard competency and industry questions and emulates the same experience as platforms such as HireVue, Pymetrics and Sonru. Always record your answers and watch them to develop your interview technique, timekeeping, and words used. Repeat recordings until you feel satisfied.

4. Prepare for the DHL Assessment Center exercises

The DHL recruitment team may invite you to partake in the DHL Assessment Center. This stage is used to select the perfect fit for the role. The exercises the assessment center covers include: 

• Individual exercise 
• Group discussion
• Group presentation

Research beforehand and practice giving presentations. Hone your verbal and spoken communication techniques.

Continue reading to get answers to the following critical questions:

1. How to apply to DHL?
2. What is a DHL assessment?
3. How to pass DHL online assessments?
4. What questions are asked in the DHL interview?

If you wish to quickly practice aptitude tests relevant to DHL, simply click on the assessment of your choice in the table below and begin right away!

This is how to get a job at DHL. Now let’s dive into the details to uncover all the secrets behind the process.

In this guide, you will learn

Contents

1. What is DHL?
2. DHL Online Application
3. DHL Aptitude Tests
4. DHL Interview
5. DHL Assessment Center
6. DHL Student and Graduate Programs
7. DHL Recruitment FAQs 

Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What is DHL?

DHL is arguably the world’s largest logistics company. DHL was founded in the United States as an international German delivery company in 1969 and was later acquired by Deutsche Post in 2002 and absorbed into its express division. 

Now, DHL operates in over 220 countries and manages everything from supply chain for large companies to international shipping and courier services. Some of the many job opportunities include: 

• Finance managers 
• Maintenance engineers 
• Warehouse managers 
• Customer relations specialist 
• IT support 
• Courier drivers

Knowing the core DHL values is important when applying for these roles. But what are DHL’s core values? Let’s take a look! 

DHL Values

What are DHL’s core values?

DHL’s core values are reflected in the company’s statement: “Delivering excellent quality. Making the customer successful. To foster openness. To set and follow clear priorities. To be entrepreneurial. To be socially responsible. To act with integrity.”

 More specifically, they include:

1. Responsible Company: As a big business, DHL is aware of the influence they have and the impact they can make. As such, DHL is dedicated to having a positive impact on the world.

2. Committed Team: DHL’s workforce is strengthened by different skills, experiences, and viewpoints that come together to form a global team. DHL keeps seeking to celebrate the unique contribution each team member brings.

3. Grow with us: DHL never forgets that their customers make them who they are. Therefore, they do their best to create an environment where everyone is appreciated, to help them enjoy a fulfilled career.

4. Think ahead: DHL believes that the future belongs to those who use what they have learned today to build a better tomorrow. Therefore, DHL encourages everyone to work with them, regardless of their role, in order to create and drive ideas.

Now, let’s find out how to apply to work at DHL. 

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DHL Online Application

How do I apply for a job at DHL?

The DHL job application is the first step to getting the job. To apply, you will be required to login once you have found a job opening at DHL and register an account on the application portal. 

Once you pick out your desired role, the next step is to apply. You must have a DHL account before you can continue your application.

You will be required to provide the following information:

• Personal information
• Educational qualifications
• Contact details
• Resume upload
• Additional information, e.g. sponsorship requirements.

 Be sure to save your DHL job application login details, as you will need them throughout the period of your application.

4 Tips to Pass the DHL Online Application

1. Read the job requirements and confirm that you meet all the requirements before applying. Also, make sure to apply early during the opening period.

2. Carefully provide all the required details and documents when filling out the DHL application form. Make sure the details you provided are correct.

3. Write a good cover letter and submit it along with the form. In your cover letter, highlight your competencies relevant to the role and your passion for the job.

4. Employers are interested in extracurricular activities, so do well to include them in your CV or cover letter if possible.

That’s all about the DHL application. If successful, you may be required to sit some aptitude tests, depending on the job role or area. 

What are these DHL aptitude tests? Let’s find out.

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DHL Aptitude Tests 

This is the next phase of your application after the online application. Aptitude tests may vary depending on the job role. The DHL aptitude tests are provided by SHL, and they cover a range of assessments, including:

1. DHL Numerical reasoning test
2. DHL Verbal reasoning test
3. DHL Logical reasoning test
4. DHL Situational judgement test

These tests may seem like a handful, but you don’t need to worry. Here is a detailed breakdown of these aptitude tests, along with tips to prepare and pass them.

1. DHL Numerical Reasoning Test

What is the DHL numerical reasoning test?

The DHL numerical reasoning test seeks to evaluate a person’s ability to understand and work with numerical information. This assessment involves interpreting the data shown in graphs, tables, and charts, as well as carrying out basic mathematical calculations.

DHL-Style Numerical Reasoning Test Example

Got the answer? Check if you got it right at the bottom of the page!

5 Key Tips to Pass the DHL Numerical Reasoning Test

1. Refresh your knowledge of basic mathematical calculations like ratios, percentages, fractions, and other arithmetic operations.
2. Practice numerical assessments to sharpen your ability to solve popular numerical calculations quickly.
3. Use a notepad to write down any key details or for rough calculations.
4. Make sure you understand the graph, table, chart, or any other numerical data provided before attempting the question.
5. Budget enough time for each question, and move on to the next one if you are stuck.

For more hacks on how to pass DHL numerical reasoning test, watch this short video below:

5 Tips and tricks to ace numerical reasoning tests

Another assessment you may take is the DHL verbal reasoning test. Let’s check it out below.

2. DHL Verbal Reasoning Test

What is the DHL verbal reasoning test?

The DHL verbal reasoning test is an assessment that evaluates your ability to understand and work with written information. The test involves reading passages, statements, or questions, and then using your vocabulary and logical thinking to answer them correctly. 

DHL-Style Verbal Reasoning Test Example

5 Top Tips to Ace the DHL Verbal Reasoning Test

1. Practice verbal reasoning tests. Practicing popular verbal reasoning tests to familiarise yourself with the common types of questions and formats used.

2. Get plenty of rest the night before and take the test in a place where you won’t be disturbed. It is key to focus during your DHL verbal test.

3. Read carefully. Take your time to read the passage and statements thoroughly to ensure you understand them before trying to answer the question.

4. Highlight key points. Use a pen to jot down important details in the passage or statement that may determine your answer. This can help you refer back to them if you get confused. 

5. Use only the information provided in the passage. Do not try to speculate when answering the questions. Rather, stick to the information you have been given.

Discover more insights on how to pass DHL verbal reasoning test in this short video.

Moving on, let’s take a look at the DHL logical reasoning test.

3. DHL Logical Reasoning Test

What is the DHL logical reasoning test?

The DHL logical reasoning test is aimed at assessing your ability to solve problems. The recruiters want to know if you can identify patterns, and think logically in a short period of time.

DHL-Style Logical Reasoning Test Example

Got the answer? Check the bottom of the page to see if you got it right!

5 Vital Tips to Pass a DHL Logical Reasoning Test

1. Practice puzzles. Practicing puzzles ahead of your application is one way to prepare and boost your confidence. Practicing sudoku or brainteasers can improve your logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

2. Choose a quiet environment. A quiet environment will improve your concentration, which is very important for logical reasoning tests.

3. Search for common patterns. Logical reasoning often involves identifying patterns and relationships. Try to find similarities or sequences in the information you are given and give your answer according to them.

4. Eliminate incorrect options. Start by eliminating the answers that are more obviously incorrect. This will help you narrow down your options to the right answer. 

5. Take one question at a time. To help improve accuracy, focus on one question at a time. If unsure, take a logical guess and move on to the next question.

Practicing ahead for your upcoming DHL logical reasoning test is very important. This short video explains why.

Last but not least is the DHL situational judgement test. Let’s take a look.

4. DHL Situational Judgement Test

What is the DHL situational judgement test?

The DHL situational judgement test questions are designed to assess your situational judgement and decision making skills. The questions give realistic work-place scenarios and require you to choose the most appropriate action from a set of options.

Here’s a sneak peek into what your DHL situational judgement test may look like with our own DHL-style situational judgement test question we’ve developed below:

5 Tips to Pass the DHL Situational Judgement Test

1. Practice situational judgement tests beforehand to get familiar with common workplace scenarios and improve your decision-making skills.

2. Research the strengths and competencies sought by DHL, as well as their core values, in order to align your responses with them.

3. Read the questions carefully. Try to understand the scenario, the available options, and the implications before selecting an answer. Make sure you are focused on the situation.

4. Consider others, but prioritise the job. Consider how your actions might affect others involved, and choose a solution that shows empathy and respect for everyone involved.

5. Think long-term. In most cases, the best action is one that has positive consequences in the long run, even if it is very challenging in the short term.

This short clip provides more crucial tips you need ahead of your DHL situational judgement test.

These are helpful tips to ace your DHL aptitude tests. Now let’s move on to the next phase of your recruitment: the DHL interview process.

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DHL Interview

What is the DHL interview?

The DHL interview may be a live video interview session with the aid of a video conferencing software or a recorded video interview through a digital interview software. During your DHL interview, you will be asked strength or competency-based questions.

8 Top Tips to Pass a DHL Interview

1. Be prepared. Make sure you have your resume, the job description, and any other important notes with you in case you need to refer to them. Also, find a quiet place for the call.

2. Test your technology: Ensure beforehand that you have a stable internet connection, a working camera, and a functioning microphone. Test these to ensure there are no technical issues.

3. Dress professionally. It is advisable to wear neutral coloured clothes that are professional. Your attire should be appropriate for the role you are applying for.

4. Maintain eye contact. Look directly into the camera when speaking to make eye contact. Doing this will demonstrate your confidence.

5. Speak clearly. It is important to speak clearly, as it demonstrates your confidence. Speak in a clear language, do not speak too fast, and make sure the interviewer can understand what you are saying.

6. Listen carefully. Pay close attention to what your interviewer is saying in order to give relevant and thoughtful answers. If a question is unclear, feel free to ask your interviewer to repeat the question.

7. Pay attention to your non-verbal communication. Smile, nod, and maintain a positive facial expression throughout the interview.

8. Tailor your responses to DHL’s values and competencies. Do well to research about DHL values and competencies to help you tailor your responses accordingly. This will show your interest in the role you are applying for.

This short clip also reveals three common mistakes you must avoid in your DHL video interview.

The interview questions may differ according to the role, but they are mostly strength-based and competency based questions to further assess your suitability.

DHL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Let’s put the above tips into practice with some example DHL interview questions and an example good answer for each.

Good Answer:

• One of my core strengths is adaptability. I thrive in dynamic environments where objectives and priorities can change rapidly. In my former role, I often had to pivot quickly to handle new challenges and opportunities. Doing this allowed me to help our team stay on track and seize new opportunities as they came.

• In this role, I believe my adaptability will be very useful as I can help the team navigate changes in the industry, adjust to evolving customer needs, and bring in more flexibility in achieving goals.

Good Answer:

• Situation: In my previous role, I was part of a team tasked with improving our customer onboarding process. 

• Task: My role was to lead the data analysis aspect of the project which was struggling at the time. 

• Action: I contributed to the team’s success by providing actionable insights based on my analysis of the current process, including the most significant issues that our customers faced and the areas of inefficiency. I presented my findings to the team and suggested specific changes to be made based on these areas, including streamlining the documentation submission and creating a user-friendly checklist. 

• Result: These suggestions were implemented and resulted in a 20% reduction in onboarding time and an increase in customer satisfaction scores from our clients.

• Reflection: Looking back, I would say teamwork is important for the success of any project or task. I also insist that careful research is an important part of data analysis.

Discover more insights into how to answer DHL competency questions with our quick video below: 

Good Answer:

I am leaving my current job because I am seeking new challenges and opportunities for career growth. I have enjoyed my time so far at my current company, but I believe it’s the right time to explore new experiences and contribute my skills in a different work environment.

Once you have completed your interview, you may be offered the job. In some cases however, you may be invited by the DHL recruitment team to partake in the DHL Assessment center.

Here’s what you should know about the DHL Assessment Center.

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DHL Assessment Center

What is DHL Assessment Center?

The DHL assessment centre is a hub that requires you to interact with your employer and fellow job applicants for different assessments. This is a physical session, and skills like teamwork, leadership, and communication will be evaluated.

The DHL assessment centre involves a range of activities, including:

• DHL Individual exercises
• DHL Group exercises
• DHL Group presentation

Let’s find out what is involved in each of these exercises.

DHL Individual Exercise

What is the DHL Individual Exercise?

During the DHL individual exercise, you may be given tasks that may be case studies, role-play scenarios, or written assessments that assess problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, and communication.

6 Top Tips to Pass the DHL Individual Exercise

1. Practice: Before the assessment centre, practice similar exercises and get feedback on your performance. This can help you improve your skills and boost your confidence.

2. Understand the objective: Take your time to read the instructions provided in the candidate brief to understand exactly what you are required to do. 

3. Manage your time: Keep in mind the time allocated for the exercise and work accordingly. Budget enough time for both execution and review of your work.

4. Remain calm: Take deep breaths and focus on the task at hand, and the actions required as part of the exercise.  

5. Communication: if the exercise demands that you present or explain your work, ensure to communicate your work clearly and concisely. Be ready to justify your decisions without conflict.

6. Consider DHL values when approaching a scenario. Think about the best actions and behaviours that would demonstrate these values and competencies.

DHL Group Exercise

What is the DHL Group Exercise?

In the DHL group exercise, you will be grouped with other applicants and asked to work together to solve a problem, make a decision, or complete a task. This exercise evaluates teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

5 Top Tips to Pass the DHL Group Exercise

1. Actively discuss with your team members. Pay attention to your team members ideas and perspectives and make constructive comments if necessary.

2. Collaborate and support: Cooperate with your team members to build on their points to create a plan.

3. Ask questions to the team and to the recruiter. You may gain additional information that your team can use to further progress your group work.

4. Be calm and respectful: Maintain a respectful and professional approach. Avoid confrontation with your team and always focus on finding common ground.

5. Take leadership: If necessary, lead by guiding the team’s efforts, keeping the discussion on track, managing time and assigning responsibilities.

This short video reveals other key tips to help you perform at your best during a group exercise.

DHL Group Presentation

What is the DHL Group Presentation?

In the DHL group presentation, your team will be given a specific topic or problem to present to the assessors. Each member of the team will be required to contribute to the presentation.

5 Top Tips to Pass the DHL Group Presentation

1. Preparation: Work with your team to plan and prepare for the presentation. Assign roles if possible, and make sure everyone understands their part.

2. Create a clear structure: Create a well-structured presentation with a clear introduction, key points, and conclusion. Ensure a logical flow of ideas’.

3. Engage the audience: Try to maintain eye contact, gesture with your hands, and involve the assessors or audience with questions or discussions during your presentation.

4. Time management: Keep track of time during your presentation to ensure that your team stays within the allotted time. Try to use your time maximally, and avoid rushing or going over time.

5. Adaptability. Be prepared to adapt to unexpected changes or challenges that may arise during the presentation. 

If you make it past this stage, congrats! You will receive an offer within a short period of time, and you will be on boarded into your new role. 

DHL values inclusivity and offers job roles to several qualified applicants across the world each year. If you are seeking a career with DHL, here are the various student and graduate programs available.

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DHL Student and Graduate Programs

What are DHL Student and Graduate Programs?

DHL offers different schemes or programs for students and graduates alike to help them launch their careers with DHL. Read on as we explore these programs.

These programs include:

• DHL Graduate Programs
• DHL Student Programs

DHL Graduate Programs

DHL GROW Program 

The GROW graduate program is a development program for German residents, spanning 18 months. It offers candidates new challenges, opportunities, and a chance to build a network in the world of logistics. 

The application is done on the DHL recruitment portal and begins in April and October each year.

DHL G100 Program

DHL G100 Program is for graduates desiring a professional career in DHL’s supply chain business. The program trains them according to their individual needs and gives them the opportunity to gain real-life experiences to advance their skills. 

The G100 Program is available in 18 locations across mainland Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Specialties include Operational Leadership, Finance, Operations Excellence, IT, or HR.

DHL Graduate Programs

DHL offers a program in supply chain business for graduate residents of the United Kingdom or graduates based in the Asia-Pacific region. Specialties include Finance, HR, IT Management, Project Management, Procurement, and Leadership roles. The company also offers the DHL Express program for these graduates who wish to broaden their skills.

DHL Direct Entry

Besides structural programs, DHL offers eligible graduates across the world who wish to bring their skills and experiences and apply them in conventional entry-level roles. Jobs range from crucial Delivery and Warehouse roles to opportunities behind the scenes like Sales and Marketing, IT, Finance, Procurement, and HR.

DHL College Recruitment – USA and Canada

This is for undergraduates wrapping up their studies who wish to make an immediate impact and gain hands-on leadership experience in DHL’s supply chain business. To be eligible for this program, a candidate must be a senior graduating with a bachelor’s degree either in December or May of any given year.

DHL Student Programs

AIESEC Upgrade Program

DHL AIESEC Upgrade Program is for students who want to gain some overseas work experience during their studies. This program is the only international internship program at DHL. It offers students the chance to work on live projects, interact with clients, and network with people across the business to develop their skills.

The AIESEC Upgrade Program is based at DHL sites worldwide, and about 100 places are available each year.

Local Internships

Unlike the Upgrade program, there are various DHL local internship opportunities available for students to help them gain necessary work skills and real-world experiences. This opportunity is for students studying for a degree or taking a gap year. It is available at DHL sites across the world, and about 200 spots are available each year.

Internship Program – USA and Canada

In the USA or Canada, DHL gives interns the opportunity to gain leadership skills in one of their warehouses or Supply Chain Support Center. This opportunity also allows them to participate in a formalised Summer Internship Program. 

The goal of this program is to enable students to improve their business acumen through continuous learning and networking opportunities. The interns will be considered for full-time roles at the end of the program. Only current 3rd-4th year university/college students enrolled in a 4-year degree program are eligible.

That’s all about DHL recruitment and career opportunities. If you still have other questions, here are popular questions other candidates are asking.

DHL Recruitment FAQs