1. Job Advertisement and Application
Deadlines:
Job adverts for the public sector will usually have a closing date, typically two to four weeks. It is, therefore, good practice to keep scanning the job boards and the websites of interest to you so that you do not miss a job opportunity.
Requirements:
Study carefully the job description and person specifications to understand what qualifications, skills, and experience are required. Make sure your CV and cover letter highlight how you match up to these criteria. Note any special instructions about how to apply—for example, extra forms to complete or references.
Good Practice:
Get going on your application well in advance. Avoid last-minute rushes.
Use clear and concise language that will enable you to show clearly how suited to the role you are. Quantify experience and achievements with results wherever possible.
2. Shortlisting
Time frames:
Between one to three weeks may be spent shortlisting after the application period closes. In this period, applications are screened based on the best criteria as per the Job Description.
Requirements:
Ensure the panel notices and appreciates your application by clearly associating your skills and work experience with what is required for the job. What you have achieved and how these relate to the role being applied for may be what takes you to the next step.
Best Practice:
Check for any errors in your application before submitting.
Include your contact information.
3. Interview and Assessment
Timeline:
If shortlisted, you will be invited to an interview. There may be different stages of the interview, such as a preliminary interview, followed up with the panel interview, and possibly a practical assessment.
Needs:
Research the organisation and the role, and come very prepared for the interview. Know what key competencies are in the role, and how you can demonstrate these with examples of your strengths in these areas.
Good Practice:
Practice common interview questions and responses.
Be prepared to talk about past experiences and how they have set you up for this role.
Take care with how you dress and arrive on time for the interview.
4. Selection and Offer
Timelines:
The selection process can take between one to two weeks after the interview. The hiring panel will deliberate on all the interviews held and where necessary conduct reference checks before arriving at a decision.
Requirements:
If you receive a job offer, it should explain all terms regarding salary, benefits, and other relevant information such as start date. When a candidate is not selected for any position he should ask for feedback for refinement in applications in future.
Good Practice:
Reply quickly to any offer.
Be ready to negotiate the offer, if necessary.
Be graceful about the opportunity, whether accepted or rejected.
5. Onboarding
Induction:
Induction programmes will help you get oriented to the culture and expectations of the organisation. This may start straight after job acceptance and may run into weeks.
Requirements:
Make sure all documents are submitted on time. Be an active part of the onboarding process to get familiar with the new role in the organisation.
Best Practices:
Keep yourself organised; keep a key on documents or any other thing which you need to complete.
Develop relations with your new colleagues for easy integration into your new team.
At Source Recruit, we are experts in matching talented professionals with opportunities across the public sector. Find a new role or progress your career by looking at our latest vacancies and resources on Source Recruit today. With our experience and guidance, you can feel confident to make your next move within the public sector.
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