Job Seeking Skills

Selection Criteria

For advertised vacancies in the Public Service, statutory bodies, universities, and many organisations in the private sector, applicants are normally required to address the selection criteria.

• Example 1 - Graduate Administrative Assistant, Australian Public Service
• Example 2 - Graduate Research Assistant, Centre for Water Resources, UWA
• Example 3 - Staging Coordinator, Australian Broadcasting Commission
• An employer's view - Some good hints!

What are Selection Criteria?

Within the public sector all positions are classified in a very structured way and the tasks to be performed in those positions are outlined in a Job Description Form (JDF). Attached to this JDF are the selection criteria. Generally, a distinction is drawn between essential and desirable criteria. Essential criteria are the minimum requirements for the position. Desirable criteria are those skills, knowledge, qualifications and experience that would enhance someoneís ability to perform the duties of the position. The advertisement is often used to emphasise the criteria considered most important for the position and should be read in conjunction with the JDF.

Selection criteria are used by the selection panel to distinguish between one application and another. Merit selection is based on a belief that the best predictor of future behaviour is past behaviour. Therefore, selection panels will feel much more confident about predicting your ability to perform a job if they can ascertain how you have performed in similiar circumstances previously. It is not sufficient for you to simply state that you possess certain skills or experience. Panels require specific, relevant examples and sometimes ones that can be verified by a referee. Do not exaggerate your claims as you may have to validate them in an interview.

It is essential that the information you provide is clear, concise and relevant to the position. It is up to you to demonstrate to the panel that you understand the objectives of the role, and that you have the necessary knowledge, experience and qualifications to successfully carry out its duties. Your responses to the selection criteria should be on additional pages (called a supporting statement) rather than in your resumé. Advertisements for a position often request that "candidates must address the selection criteria ". This means an application should include a letter of application and a resumé as well as a supporting statement addressing each selection criterion.

Note that it is crucial to clearly identify the position applied for in the title of the supporting statement.

Candidates who effectively demonstrate that they meet all of the essential criteria should be eligible for interview. In cases where positions are particularly competitive, candidates are selected on the basis of how well they meet both essential and desirable criteria, and whether they have suitable previous experience in the required area of work.

How to address the Selection Criteria

Applicants must make a statement about each criterion. Some criteria require more explanation than others, but it is important to be as relevant as possible using appropriate examples from previous work experience, tertiary experience or life experience - avoid rambling or negative statements. Play down lack of experience by highlighting your enthusiasm for challenges and your willingness to learn. Usually, two or three paragraphs on each criterion is acceptable.

Some abridged examples are provided: these are for guidance only since the nature and content of supporting statements vary greatly from one person and job to another.