I sent off my CV and detailed IBM-specific application form, and subsequently completed the IPAC test. I was then invited to an assessment centre at IBM Hursley.

The assessment centre comprised several group exercises, two solo interviews, a short presentation, and a programming aptitude test (similar to an IQ test, no previous programming experience required).

I was told I passed the assessment centre the next day. While this was not an offer of employment, nor even a guarantee that IBM would continue with my application (this was made clear at the assessment day), I was now in a pool of potential candidates.

However, two months after the assessment centre, with no communication since, I was told there were no positions available at this time and that my application would not be considered further. This was a very long waiting process for a very unsatisfactory result.

Describe a time where you've come up with a solution and persuaded others to use it.