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Applying for Public Sector Jobs (especially UK) There are a few golden rules that job hunters need to follow if they are to compete successfully for jobs in the public sector.
For someone who is used to applying for private sector vacancies, it is important to appreciate that a slightly different approach is needed for the public sector.
Background information: It is commonplace for a committee to have decided upon the attributes needed to perform the job.
These are listed in the person specification which will usually accompany the application form.
Public sector employers adopt a tick box approach to recruitment. You need a tick in every box to avoid being rejected.
Golden rules: 1. When completing the application form show how you meet all the points on the person specification. The best way is to copy out the point and then write your response giving an example of a scenario that you have been personally involved with. (If necessary be creative) Make the employers job easy for them. Never ever admit to being unable to meet a point on the person specification as certain rejection would follow.
2. Try not to make it obvious if you exceed the level of qualifications or experience that they are asking for. (I myself have made this mistake on more than one occasion) There is a danger you will be rejected for being over qualified or better suited to another position. They are restricted from offering you another post within the organisation as each job must be advertised and a fair competition take place.
3. Remember the importance of teamwork and partnership working. You do not want to give the impression that you work independently of others. Mentioning examples of instances in which you worked successfully in partnership with another group or organisation is important.
4. At interview each candidate will be asked exactly the same questions. They are unlikely to refer directly to your own work experience. So anticipate questions that relate to the job you are applying for. Again the tick box approach applies. Expect a fairly brief, very formal, interview with a panel of three or more people asking a couple of questions each. They have already decided upon the type of person they wish to employ, you have to be that person. (at least for the course of the interview)
Applying for jobs in the public sector can prove to be a very time consuming business. I hope that by understanding the rules of the game you will now be better placed to compete successfully.
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