Applying for public sector jobs
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 recruitment
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
of the job 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
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
you 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 of
their 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.
