Selection criteria for government jobs
A three part structure is recommended for selection criteria responses - Positive Opening, Scoping Statement and 2 or more Examples.
The benefits of using this strategy include
NOTE: Many employers restrict the length of selection criteria responses to a page, or sometimes specify 250, 500, 800 or 100 word or equivalent character limits. Always check the entire 'Application Information Package' to see whether there is a restriction before you start composing your responses. However, for the first drafts ignore this requirement, it only becomes important during the editing phase. All energy for the first draft should be focussed on creating and generating ideas for content. Direct your critical internal editor to take an extended coffee break until summoned.
POSITIVE OPENING
The first one or two sentences of your selection criteria response should be a positive statement that immediately links you with the desired skill, experience or knowledge. If you have been acknowledged for past performance, this is your opportunity to show perspective employers how you have used the targeted skill in a work situation to achieve good results.
Opening Examples
Teamwork- For the last 10-years my role as a Team Leader has required me to work collaboratively and productively with multi-disciplinary teams to produce project deliverables on time and within budget. This has enhanced our company's reputation for being a market leader in project management.
The arduous task of preparing job applications involving selection criteria requires an emotionally intelligent strategy. It is critical that the moment you decide to apply for a job that requires developing Selection Criteria statements - start the application IMMEDIATELY. This allows time for day long breaks essential to re-energize and regain your objectivity. If, at any time you feel yourself becoming disillusioned or ready to give up, reread this article. It will help you pinpoint what you are doing or not doing, to refocus, and start taking action to regain your momentum.
SET YOURSELF UP
Positive Opening Statement e.g. 1 or 2 sentences that links you to the competency being specified by an employer.
selection criteria