9 Step Strategy For Your Selection Criteria Response!

 

Preparing for a selection criteria response should not be your nightmare. Instead this is a great opportunity to showcase your abilities and highlight your application as the best candidate for the position.

9 steps to approach and compose your key selection criteria response:

1. Analyse each selection criterion according to the type and level of response required. One of the most common key selection criteria is “high level of written and oral communication skills“. This means that two skill types are required – written communication skills and oral communication skills. And both skills are required to be at a high level.
2. Read the job description thoroughly. Understand what is involved in the position and give relevant examples of how you meet every part of each key selection criterion. If you were working in the role you are applying for, how would you apply your high level of oral and written communication skills?  What will the panel be looking for?
3. Research the position. Gain a good understanding of the position before you apply. If possible contact the person in the organisation responsible for selection to clarify requirements and expectations.  Gauge an understanding of communication skills required for the position.
4. Start developing your responses by writing each selection criterion on a separate piece of paper.  Brainstorm as many ideas and concrete examples of how you can meet each criterion. Even if it seems even slightly related write it down at this stage.  Which situations did you successfully demonstrate your high level oral and written communication skills? They can come from your previous working experiences (part time, full time and casual positions), your volunteer activities, your social relationships, your personal interests, your hobbies and your educations.
5. Develop your response to each criterion drawing from your brainstorm (step 4). You are better to start with a few key words/ideas and connect those key words/ideas to form a completed story.
6. When writing your application use a separate heading for each criterion. Use either prose or a combination of note and prose form.  Read the application material or contact the organisation to determine if the panel has a preferred style.
7. Check that you have included, when possible, some information on how well you did an activity.
8. Double check each response by having someone review your responses. Ask them to read for clarity of expression, correct grammar, spelling and how adequately the response addresses the key selection criterion.
9. Include a letter of application and resume with your response to selection criteria.

Contact NotedCareers to talk to our career consultants for more advice on key selection criteria responses!