Blog

As published in The Australian - 30 August 2008

APPLYING for a public sector position can feel like parachuting into foreign territory at night with just a pocket dictionary and a child's torch. Don't despair! There is a way to learn the public sector recruitm'ent process and be selected for an interview. All you need are clear guidelines - provided here, and focused and careful writing.

Unlike the private sector, where a well-prepared CV and tailored covering letter usually gain an interview, selection for interview in the public sector is primarily based upon responses to selection criteria.

The Package

On receiving the information package - usually consisting ofthejob description (often quite brief), duty statement, accountabilities, responsibilities, performance indicators, financial delegation and of course selection criteria - read it all carefully, highlighting the key aspects of the position. The package will also contain information on the recruitment process, including guidelines on how to respond to selection criteria. Take careful note, as some departments have word limits per criterion.

Research

The job sounds great, just what you have been looking for and you are ready to put fingers to the keyboard. Stop. First, ring the contact person for more information. It is always helpful to find out as much as possible about the position before writing your application. This is a good way of checking if your background and experience really match the position requirements. Next, head straight for their website and do some targeted research. Read the sections on core business, departmental priorities and any recent policy changes. Also take note of policies on OH&S, code of conduct and diversity. These are integral to public sector culture, and often included as part of the selection criteria. While still in the website take careful note of the language and terminology used by the department. Now you are ready to start writing.

Framework for response

Your first step is to update your CV so that it clearly reflects your experience and achievements, highlighting relevant experience for the new role. It will act as the basis for your application.

Selection criteria

The exciting part. Lock yourself into a soundproof room so that your screams and frustrations do not disturb the rest of the household. The most effective approach is to view each criterion as totally independent, and your responses as a series of brief reports with a similar structure. Start each criterion with a broad overview of your relevant experience as it relates to that criterion. These will then lead into your examples and provide proof of your suitability. It is advisable to give at least two examples per criterion. Structure your examples in the format of a short report: context, methodology, result. This framework will ensure that each example is clear and to the point, making it easy for the selection panel to say yes. An example: Experience in staff supervision and training - " As a result of many years' experience in staff supervision, I have developed expertise in assessing the strengths of various members and supporting them to achieve their potential" - follow with the examples. At the end of each criterion summarise your experience. When you have completed the selection criteria, re-read each to ensure your examples are clear and that you have responded to all key points. You might have your application read by someone who has a background or understanding of public sector recruitment process. A professional CV demonstrates your level of responsibility and your achievements, while your response to selection criteria clearly demonstrates the process which underpins your achievements and provides proof of your suitability.

Tips:

• Give yourself enough time to write the application - at least 3 days
• Ring the contact person to get a better insight into the scope of the position.
• Read the organisation's website to give a better understanding of their work.
• Time permitting, talk to people who have worked in the public sector and/or know the area.
• Build common ground by reflecting some oftheir language in your application.
• Re-read the application to make sure you have addressed all the key points in the selection criteria.
• Check that you meet the word limit, if there is one.
• Always proofread your application.
• Send the application early and check that it has actually been received.