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Over years I’ve selected lots of candidates for roles from most junior through to CEOs & senior execs. Apparently I’m good at it so get asked to help lots of different orgs. Long thread of free advice for applicants follows:
1. What follows is NOT based on my experience @becomeajudge. V good advice for applicants for judicial office is available on JAC website. This thread of advice is based on 35 yrs selecting candidates for public, 3rd & private sector roles of all kinds
2. Lots of orgs now use various online tests; this thread does not address those. It’s about how to succeed when submitting written applications/CVs & make sure your application jumps out from others & you’re called for interview
3. Read the recruitment pack carefully. (Sounds obvs? Doesn’t seem to be.) Read it twice & do what it says ie if it says submit CV & 2 page supporting statement or complete this application form... ahem.. do what it says or you’ll get put on NO pile
4. Don’t do what one actual candidate did ie write in response to application form questions TO BE ANSWERED AT INTERVIEW - they won’t be because you won’t get one
5. If job is attractive to you it will likely be to many candidates so make your application easy for those selecting to assess & make it stand out. Best way to do this?
6. List the skills/qualities/competences the JD says are required & identify specific examples of how you can demonstrate you possess them. Provide EVIDENCE & avoid ASSERTION. Provide several examples & cross refer to your CV
7. NEVER simply submit supporting statement & CV you’ve submitted for previous roles....particularly if you weren’t called for interview. Applying for jobs requires time, effort & a tailored application will maximise your chances
8. Do your research on the org; it’s so much easier now than past. Look at website & social media accounts, read annual report, 5 year strategy, latest press releases, publications etc so you understand what they care about & can make application RELEVANT
9.Use CV/application form to make clear your skills & qualities ie your SUITABILITY for role; use your covering letter to emphasise your MOTIVATION & what you’d bring to the org. Don’t over do the passion word but do tell them why you’d like the job but...
10. Don’t waste words on what you want to GET from the job; they’re going to employ the right person for what they’ll BRING. Of course, you’ll learn, develop & get paid if you’re appointed but at application stage you need to show your FIT with JD/org
And 11. please PROOF READ what you’ve written, check for spelling & typos, if poss ask a critical friend to read your application & comment before you submit
12. And finally if you’re not successful be disappointed/cross privately. Tell your Mum/bf/whoever but don’t display it. How you behave publicly will prove Panel correct or help determine your future success END
