If you want a government job, your first step to securing one, is making sure you write a top-notch application. While there is a move away from long and complex applications, some of the rules remain the same and many job applicants are falling into the same old traps, which is costing them jobs. In no particular order:

Mistake Number One

Not being qualified for the job: The government process is designed (by law) to ensure that the most qualified person for the job is hired. It is not designed to secure the most talented person for the job. Now, you can be very talented and know that within weeks you will excel on the job. But the process is designed to score you against proven skills and qualifications. So if you don’t have these, you won’t be selected (even if you think you are the new Einstein).

So don’t apply for a job based on the fact that it sound’s exciting, or you want a government job, but apply for a job on the basis that not only does it sound great, but you have the majority of the skills and experience listed in the job requirements and selection criteria. Otherwise you are wasting your time. [Read more…]