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Competency Based Applications & Interviews

Out of the Blue is the ultimate resource for anyone hoping to ace their competency based interview. Whether you have applied to join An Garda Síochána or you are looking for career progression, we have the coach for you.  We also provide this service for all members of the Emergency Services and Military.  Our personalised coaching approach ensures that you receive the support and guidance you need to feel confident and prepared for your interview. Don't let lack of experience or confidence hold you back – contact us today and let us help you succeed!

Meet the Team

We have assembled a panel of the most experienced and talented coaches in the industry, all of whom are dedicated to helping you succeed.

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Christy Mangan

Christy spent 40 years in policing at all ranks up to and including the rank of Chief Superintendent.  Christy is a highly trained and experienced individual who was centrally involved in introducing the investigative interviewing and cold case concepts into the Garda organisation. He has considerable experience in risk assessment and crisis management, having been a Senior Investigating Officer in a number of homicide investigations.  During his exemplary policing career, Christy was the recipient of the Walter Scott Medal for Valour on two occasions.  In addition to a stellar career in policing, Christy is a published author, achieving number 1 bestseller status within the first week of publication.  Chirsty has extensive experience in policing management, crisis command and major emergency and significant involvement in coaching and mentoring groups and individuals. Christy fully understands what an Interview Board are seeking when interviewing potential candidates.  Christy has a proven track record and has a particular skill in bringing out the best in candidates and helping them achieve their potential. His priority is your success.

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Carlo Griffin

Carlo has been a member of An Garda Siochana since 1994. He brings a lot of experience to the role of Interview Preparation Specialist having been trained as a Competency Based Interview Trainer in 2008. Carlo worked as a training instructor at The Garda College for nearly 8 years between 2001 and 2009 and has trained thousands of members of An Garda Siochana during those years in presentation skills, legal and policing studies along with fingerprint and scenes of crime training.  Carlo was conferred with a Masters in Criminal Justice Studies in 2006 and was promoted to Sergeant in 2008. He transferred to the Laois/Offaly Division in 2009 and is still attached to that Division working as a Unit Sergeant. In 2017 Carlo qualified with an Advanced Diploma in Personal Leadership & Executive Coaching from Kinsgstown College and in 2021 was conferred with a Postgraduate Diploma in Innovation, Creativity and Leadership from UCD. He is currently attending South Eastern Technological University (SETU) studying Executive Coaching. Carlo was part of the team that was responsible for training Garda Interview Boards on Competency Based Interviews while a staff member of The Garda College.  Carlo has a very high success rate with his clients going for Garda to Sergeant Promotion Interviews and interviews for specialist units/positions within An Garda Siochana. He is highly regarded as an Interview Preparation Specialist.

Vera Costello

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Vera’s understanding of organisational dynamics and human behaviour enables her to provide comprehensive solutions to her clients, incorporating her expertise in psychometric testing and competency-based interviews. She focusses on an individual’s strengths, aspirations, and potential. Through this approach, she offers valuable insights for personal and professional growth. Additionally, she specialises in outboarding and interviewing skills, ensuring her clients are equipped with the tools they need to thrive in their careers. Vera brings a unique perspective to tutoring, emphasising innovation and strategic thinking. Beyond my professional endeavours. With five grown-up children, I understand firsthand the importance of work-life balance and the challenges professionals face when navigating career aspirations alongside family responsibilities.

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David Foley

Dave is a certified Professional Coach and delivers executive, life and career coaching to private clients, many of whom are embarking on career transformation. A former senior officer of the Defense Forces with over 23 years’ service, Dave served as a Deputy Regional Director for Human Resources where he was responsible for recruitment and promotions within a region of 3,450 staff.  He has extensive experience in career-management and is trained and experienced in interview skills (including the PAS competency models). In addition to his work as a Professional Coach, Dave volunteers his services to a well-known non-profit organisation, where he provides career-coaching and interview preparation to clients who are joining the workforce for the first time or returning after absence.

Stephen Moore

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The founder of Out of the Blue, Stephen is dedicated to helping people reach their true potential. He has huge experience in training and has previously trained over 2,000 Gardaí in interview techniques. He was part of the GRA’s training staff and helped develop and facilitate courses to representatives around the country. The author of three books on Garda history, Stephen is ready to assist all those seeking his help. Whether you are beginning your career in An Garda Síochána or you are going for promotion, let Stephen demystify the competency based system for you and give you the best chance in your search for success.

Booking Process

Each of our coaches offer individual 2-hour coaching sessions over Zoom to help you prepare for a successful interview.  Simply choose your preferred coach and select a time slot that works for you. After booking, you will receive an email with an information pack and you will be asked to email your application form to your selected coach.  You will also receive payment instructions.  If you have any questions, please contact info@outofthebluetraining.com.  

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