demonstrate problem solving skills selection criteria

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Selection Criteria Examples: 13+ Good Selection Criteria Responses

In this post, what are selection criteria, how to address selection criteria, the star model in selection criteria, what are the different types of selection criteria, selection criteria examples and templates, selection criteria faqs.

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Selection criteria have the power to decide the fate of your job application. Imagine: you’ve been on the edge of your seat for two weeks, waiting to hear back from your dream employer . And now — unbeknownst to you — the moment of truth has arrived.

With a double click, Gary the hiring manager brings your application up onscreen. He rubs his eyes, takes a gulp of coffee and a deep breath, and starts skimming through your resume and cover letter .

If you’re applying for a position where the job advertisement included selection criteria (for example, a job in the Australian Public Service , or a large company), things can go one of two ways from this point:

“Wow, this applicant’s experience could make them a great fit,” Gary thinks. “And their cover letter tells me they’re passionate about this field.” 

He glances across at the list of key selection criteria for this position. And then he realises there’s no third page. You haven’t addressed the selection criteria at all.

He closes the window, sighs, and drags your application to the bin. Next!

Gary reads your stellar resume and your eloquent cover letter. Then he opens your ‘Key Selection Criteria Responses.docx’ document.

He compares your selection criteria responses against his list. A smile starts to spread across his face, and he sits up a little straighter. You’ve used the right keywords, structured it with the STAR framework, and organised it into skimmable bullet points. Gary adds your application to the shortlist — the selection panel is going to love it.

Okay, so Gary isn’t real, but key selection criteria are very real. Take them seriously, or be ready for Scenario A (i.e. the bin).

But don’t worry — you already have the skills you need to do an excellent job. If you’ve ever told a story to a friend about something that happened at work, you’re halfway there. 

Today, you’ll get the tools you need to get the rest of the way — all the way into your dream job.

Selection criteria are the essential skills , knowledge, experience and qualifications you must demonstrate to be eligible for a job. HR departments use them to evaluate candidates’ competency, and they are necessary for most government jobs, and for new roles at most large organisations. They don’t just benefit hiring managers, either. You can use them to see whether the job is a good fit for you.

It’s crucial to answer the selection criteria when applying for a position. To respond to key selection criteria, create a separate document to your covering letter and resume — both of which you have customised for this position, using the same language as in the job description. You’ll need to describe how well you meet each of the primary selection criteria in order to answer them, provide detailed information when asked, and use relevant examples from your work experience. 

Job advertisements may also list desirable criteria . Unlike the key selection criteria , these aren’t essential. But if you can show that you possess these criteria too, your chances of scoring a job interview will be much higher.

What are some examples of selection criteria ?

• Ability to work in a team and a collaborative environment
• Exceptional time management skills and ability to meet deadlines
• Ability to demonstrate a high level of effective team management
• A qualification in a relevant industry area
• What skills do you have that are relevant to this position?
• Is it possible for your abilities to be transferred to this position?
• How do you go about honing your skills?
• Give some examples of your abilities in action.
• What relevant professional knowledge do you have for this position?
• What skills would you bring to this position?
• How do you keep your knowledge and skills up to date?
• What kind of experience did you get and where did you get it?
• What is your level of experience?
• What skills do you have that might be useful in this position?
• Give a few examples of how you’ve used your skills.
• What qualifications do you have that would make you a good fit for this position?
• What personal qualities do you have that would make you a good fit for this position?

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When addressing selection criteria as a job applicant, you must be thorough. To do this, you must explore each criterion mentioned in the advertised position description in separate paragraphs and relevant examples. Back up your answers with related examples of what you have achieved and why these experiences will help you thrive in the role.

Here are five simple steps to effectively answer selection criteria:

• Analyse and dissect the selection criteria
• Write an opening statement
• Brainstorm ideas for each selection criterion
• Go into further detail and support your claims with ‘the how’
• Write out in full sentences, using a checklist

Read on for more detail.

1. Analyse and dissect the selection criteria

Read the selection criteria on the job advertisement thoroughly before jumping right in. As an example, let’s look at interpersonal skills. The associated criterion details could be ‘ w ell developed interpersonal skills’ .

This includes the ability to:

• Express opinions, information and critical points clearly and concisely via effective verbal communication
• Effectively working with others to resolve interpersonal conflicts in a positive way
• Being able to work in both formal and informal settings with others in groups and teams

If you look into this further, you can break down the desired sub-skills:

• Verbal communication
• Problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Team-working

2. Create an opening statement

For each selection criterion, clearly state how you fulfil it in one sentence making sure you incorporate key points. Keep it short – you will go into further details and specific examples and relevant experience in the next step.

“I possess strong interpersonal skills, which I have developed throughout my role as a Project Manager.”

3. Brainstorm ideas for each selection criterion

Here, you can pull together some examples of your work experiences relevant to the role you are pursuing. For example, sticking with the theme of Project Management, an applicant may think of the following scenarios to show how they fulfil the selection criteria before writing their response:

• Project Manager at X – Encountered conflicts when managing teams and resolved these accordingly.
• Project Manager at Y – First managerial role. Perfected verbal communication through many encounters with fellow team members. Learned to deliver my points clearly and concisely.
• Project Coordinator at Z – Working with teams.

4. Go into further detail and support your claims with ‘the how’

Once you’ve got the base points that surround the overarching selection criteria, you can then go to these and choose which examples suit best. A great way to do this is by employing the STAR Method technique.

Example response to the STAR Method:

5. Write out your responses in full sentences, using a checklist

Now, you can write the paragraph in full. When reading through your final draft, check the following steps before you submit your job application.

Have I addressed all elements of the selection criteria?

Once you’ve completed your application, it is good to revisit the wording of that particular selection criterion found in the position description. Make sure your content correlates and that the descriptors used in the advertisement are directly addressed in your writing. Double-check that you have met the requirements of the process itself- there may be a word limit you need to stick to, or the recruiter might ask you to list examples using bullet points instead of keeping them in paragraph format.

Are my claims justified with relevant examples?

This is as simple as making sure you are specific, concise and that your answers remain relevant using real experience. There is no use going on a tangent and writing an essay if it is a bunch of useless content irrelevant to the position.

Have I chosen the right words?

Match your language with that used in the job advertisement. When a recruiter is scanning your document, and there are words that they believe to be relevant to the position, this will more than likely generate some interest – after all, every corporate job posting gets 250 applications on average. Hence, yours needs to stand out in the selection process to make it on the shortlist.

Avoid ambiguous and passive language to make sure your writing is clear and delivers your point effectively.

Has someone else proofread my response?

Sometimes a new set of eyes can pick up on some mistakes that you might have missed. When you’ve been working on a piece for a long time, everything starts to look the same. Have them look through your work and compare it to the job advertisement – they may be able to offer some insight on how to improve your piece further.

The STAR model is one technique used to demonstrate relevant information for a specific capability within selection criteria.

Create context by describing where you applied the skills that helped to gain your knowledge

What was your role in the situation, and what were you required to accomplish?

How did you respond to the situation? What measures did you take?

What did you accomplish? How does this result relate to the job that you are applying for?

Selection criteria are more than just the desired skills an employer is looking for. It also includes experience, abilities, awareness and both hard and soft skills. The most common type of selection criteria includes qualifications. Most jobs, especially at a professional level, have a set requirement of qualifications needed.

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If you want to understand more about what it takes to write a successful selection criteria response, find some of the most popular criteria skills below and our examples of them. Whether you need to show your communication, teamwork, or technology abilities, use these examples to write your perfect response based on your experience.

Selection criteria: Proven ability to work in a team and a collaborative work environment

Here is an example of a typical teamwork selection criteria . The readers are looking for an example of when you’ve worked in a team as proof that you’ll be able to share and work with other employees if they hire you.

Teamwork criteria example

When working in hospitality, I continually proved my ability to work with a team in a very team-oriented environment. While at Johnny’s restaurant, I worked in a large team every shift, and in hospitality, teamwork is crucial to providing smooth and efficient service. Daily tasks were often team-oriented, including service, preparation and post-service jobs, which needed to be coordinated amongst staff to ensure we completed everything. 

This coordination meant communicating with other staff on shift, including chefs, dish staff, bar staff and other floor staff, and regularly attending meetings where I collaborated with other employees and management to improve the way we delivered service to customers. Regardless of how new an employee was or what training level, I treated every other staff member as equals, which helped forge professional associations and strengthened the team overall. As a result of my teamwork skills and collaborative work efforts, management often offered me extra shifts because they knew that I could work effectively with everyone to get the job done.

Selection criteria: Demonstrate a high level of effective team management

Here is a popular way of wording selection criteria for leadership skills. When a potential employer asks this, you may either be looking at a job that requires or may require leadership in the future or a position where you may have to be semi-autonomous.

Team management criteria example

When working at Smith and Son’s as a receptionist, I often had to demonstrate an ability to lead teams. After working there for five years, I became one of the longest-serving receptionists, which meant leading team meetings, organising staff events and coordinating a team of up to five receptionists at a time working on the floor. Growing genuine friendships and connections with new staff members was a priority to complete these tasks, as I knew they would come to me with problems more readily. I also needed to visibly complete my daily tasks ahead of schedule so that other receptionists would respect my participative leadership style. Staff will not respect a leader if they can’t do their job. As a result of my collaborative and friendly leadership, staff were confident in my ability to lead them and often came to me to communicate with upper management on their behalf, as well management relying on me to collaborate with them regarding receptionist staff and their needs.

Selection criteria: The ability to show a high level of quality customer service and management

Here is a typical example of phrasing for customer service selection criteria . This criterion means that the job you’re applying for will have customer-facing tasks, and management is looking to see that you have experience working with customers.

Customer service criteria example

While completing my studies, I worked part-time at Myer as a sales assistant for two years, where customer service was one of the most critical elements of my job. During my time at Myer, I worked across several departments. I demonstrated my customer service skills multiple times, especially with tricky customers or clients upset about something outside my control.

Clear communication and genuine concern with a customer’s needs is crucial to delivering exceptional customer service. When I worked in the womenswear department, a mother of the bride came in whose outfit had arrived (they’d ordered the dress online), but it didn’t fit, and we weren’t able to get a replacement in time for the wedding. 

The customer was understandably distraught, so I worked with her over a few hours, calming her down and coming up with some options for alternatives. This process included calling down items from different departments and ensuring she felt important and valued by getting her to sit down and have a cup of tea while I found all the pieces she wanted to view — or that I thought she might like. 

She ended up finding a dress that she liked more than the original and left a positive review a few days later on our Facebook page about her experience. Being able to help people when something goes wrong is one of the most rewarding elements of customer service and management. I developed this skill while working at Myer, as evidenced by many positive reviews and winning ‘best sales assistant of the month’ five times over my two years.

Selection criteria: Demonstrate the ability to use business technologies and analyse data and information effectively

Here is an example of how using technology selection criteria may be worded in a job application. In this case, the reader is looking to see how you’ve used relevant business technologies in the past and that you’ve been able to read the information given by these programs accurately.

Technology criteria example

When completing my Diploma in Administration, I was required to complete work placements that used business technologies in everyday tasks, including online library databases, microfiche and Microsoft office, and basics in Xero software.

When I completed my month-long work placement at Smith’s Chiropractors, I discovered that they were still using entirely paper-based data collection systems. I organised the transfer to a cloud-based company database system. This process included uploading files to the cloud, then connecting with multiple other programs, including Microsoft Excel, to create spreadsheets for chiropractors at the office to use in their day-to-day work. It also meant analysing large quantities of data online and turning them into practical, easy to use information. 

This use of business technologies helped both the chiropractors and the full-time administration staff become more efficient. They were no longer reliant on a paper-based system. They streamlined several processes throughout the workplace, allowing the clinic to see where processes were going wrong or could be improved.

Selection criteria: Demonstrate the ability to apply analytical and research skills

Here is a common way job applications may ask you to prove you fulfil analytical and research selection criteria. They are looking to see that you can apply what you’ve learned in analytical skills and research to everyday situations.

Analytical and research criteria example

When I was training as a teacher’s aide, I researched the special needs school and students I would be working with, both in work placements and my future work. I researched autism and students on the spectrum, looking at how different students may respond to stimuli within the school environment or having another teacher’s aid to their usual one. Students with special needs often react in unusual ways to new and changing circumstances, so it was important that the research papers I was working on were relevant and gave me valid analytical accounts and theories. 

The research I did, both within teachers aid training and independently, had to be applied in day to day practical ways, rather than just understanding the theory. I completed several projects on the topic, which required extensive literary research and analysing statistical data.

When I did my two-month-long work placement at St John’s primary school, I regularly applied the theories and concepts I had come across in my research in everyday situations. There was one student who particularly struggled with writing due to the texture of the pencils and pens. My investigation into textural sensations for students with autism helped me find ways to alter the pencils with everyday items, such as blue tac, which made it much easier for him to write. By applying the research to practical everyday learning, I helped increase class participation — not just for this student but also for students in other classes. This potential to improve learning outcomes is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a teacher’s aide.

Selection criteria: Proven ability to use interpersonal skills in everyday workplace situations

Here is a common way of phrasing interpersonal skills selection criteria. Interpersonal skills refer to, basically, people skills. Communication skills are a part of it because if you can’t communicate effectively, you’re not going to be much of a people person — but generally, they are separate.

Interpersonal skills criteria example

When working as a bartender at the Northern Hotel, there were many times when my interpersonal skills were called upon to improve difficult situations. In a busy hotel on a Saturday night, especially when customers have had a few too many drinks, relating to customers and talking them down from becoming angry is a crucial skill that I honed over the four years I worked there.

One night, a particularly irate customer was getting angry at one of our newest staff members who had cut him off. I didn’t want to get involved too early because this can often make new staff members feel undervalued, but I stepped in when he started getting personally offensive. The customer was a regular I knew relatively well, so I explained that I would have done the same thing and helped cool him down. I ensured that the new staff member was still involved, checked up on her several times throughout the night, and gave security and management a heads up. 

Two years later, she told me that one of the reasons she had stayed working with us for so long was because she knew, from that first shift, that other staff members would always support her on shift. Management recognised my interpersonal skills formally, and I won the ‘most supportive staff member’ award at our annual awards nights organised by management.

Selection criteria: Job applicant must be competent with a high level of administration skills such as database management, Microsoft Office and basic computing

Employers are looking for individuals skilled in specific programs that ensure efficiency and modernisation. In the 21st century, organisations expect anyone with a level of administrative background or skills to be competent with multiple programs and the general handling of a computer system.

Administration skills and database management criteria example

Whilst completing my Diploma in Administration, I was fortunate enough to take an Internship at Elixir Wealth Advisory, where I was an assistant to the Administration Officer. The opportunity allowed my database and computing skills to improve significantly, whereby I became efficient in using multiple Microsoft and Google applications. Working in administration involved working with clients’ details, answering phone enquiries and ensuring I organised notices and meetings for all staff members. 

One of the memorable days during my internship involved a client urgently requesting an appointment with his advisor. As the Administrative Officer was away sick that day, it was my job to fit the client into the busy schedule of the small business. I used our database system MySQL to rearrange the specific advisors day, then telephoned and used Microsoft Office to email other clients to inform them of their short-notice change to the day. Despite being short notice, the day’s meetings ran smoothly, and we could fit in the urgent session. Without using the databases and applications, the Advisory wouldn’t have known who the client was before they met and would not have been prepared to act quickly.

Selection criteria: Job applicant must have the ability to demonstrate sound written and oral communications skills

In many jobs, you need to show how you can effectively communicate as part of a team and to various people. Strong written and oral communication skills are vital in all departments and come in useful for daily tasks.

Written and oral/verbal communication criteria example

In my first full-time job at Flight Centre, oral and written communication skills were essential to being a successful travel agent. Many clients depended on me to tailor travel itineraries to their preferences during this career.

To ensure clients were satisfied both before and during their travel, communication was crucial to inform them of alterations to their plans. Once clients start their journeys, sometimes unexpected changes occur. One such situation was a significant weather disruption. A family of 4 were unable to travel to New York and spend the desired four days there. Due to their stopover in LA, I needed to organise four days of activities elsewhere. I made multiple phone calls to the clients to brief them on planning and status, understand their requests for the four days, and comfort them during this stressful time. Organising accommodation and activities in a different time zone required me to send many emails confirming availability on short notice. After constant communication with the family and many managers, I successfully reorganised the days spent in LA instead of New York, where the family enjoyed their altered stay. They even brought back a thank you gift for my consistent communication and quick thinking. Without being confident in my communication skills, being a travel agent would have been extremely difficult. It was crucial to organise, control, reach out to multiple people, and ensure clients were always satisfied with my service.

Selection criteria: Have the ability to prioritise tasks accordingly and demonstrate a high level of organisation

Organisational skills are a vital capability for working in any job in any field of work. The reader would be looking for an example of when you demonstrated your organisational skills at a time of need — or in your everyday work — that you can continue to display if they hire you.

Organisation criteria example

In my current position as the Year 6 teacher at Saint Mary’s Primary School, my job is to help the students become more mature before they reach high school and ensure their numeracy and literacy skills are all up to the standard. It is essential to teach them skills that will carry on throughout their schooling careers, such as organisation, socialisation and dedication. 

One of my tasks as a teacher includes converting weekly objectives into achievable tasks that the students will understand, such as homework or in-class activities. For example, a typical Friday will mean the collection of homework. I analyse the homework and monitor which areas the students struggled, passed or excelled in and use this to integrate into the following week’s lessons. I will develop the week’s timetable appropriately, considering any activities the students have to attend, allowing me to determine the relative importance of each task. 

By Monday morning, I am aware of the students’ weekly progress and tasks and have set the week’s goals. It is imperative as a teacher to remain constantly organised and prioritise the student’s needs and difficulties to ensure they can get the best education.

Selection criteria: Demonstrated time management skills with delegated tasks and ability to meet deadlines

Time management means that you need to demonstrate how you can work effectively. Employers expect all staff to make optimal use of their time and allocate it appropriately. Managing time is a crucial aspect of a business, and an employer needs to know how to use your skills to benefit the company.

Time management criteria example

While studying Business as a full-time university student, being part of a competitive dance team and having a part-time job at Kmart, my early 20’s were very busy. In addition to plenty of daily activities, I kept up with housework, grocery shopping and cooking, and proactively managed my full study load.

Whilst I considered myself a busy person, one week seemed particularly busy where I knew I had to manage my time well. That week consisted of two university assignments to complete, a total of 4 shifts at Kmart, and an extra dancing practice as there was a competition that weekend. I had to organise the appropriate time to allocate to each activity, as my Kmart shifts, university lectures and dancing classes were all at set times. To remain organised, I designed a timetable for the week, allocating my set activities first, and filling the blanks with when I could cook, study, sleep and attend to other activities. As one of the two assignments was due on the Friday of that week, I prioritised that task to complete first before I did the other one, which was due the following week. By Saturday, I had managed my time successfully as I met all my set commitments and had finished the first assignment Wednesday, leaving ample time to complete the second assignment during the rest of the week. It was continuously crucial in my 20s to manage my time appropriately in my day-to-day life and prioritise tasks based on their importance.

Selection criteria: Ability to approach difficult tasks and sudden changes appropriately

Employers are looking for an individual who can develop ideas to assist in formulating, creating and evaluating several possible solutions to a problem. Problem-solving skills are vital in high-stress scenarios and demonstrate quick thinking and versatility in the workplace.

Problem-solving criteria example

When working as the Head Waiter at Ballara Receptions, it was common for me to take control of multiple situations and lead the other waitresses by example and as a leader. The position itself entailed allocating specific tasks to the waiters and ensuring a smooth flow of the night. One night, there was an error in the number of guests attending the wedding. Whilst this issue needed to be dealt with quickly, there was not enough staff to meet the number requirements. I had to re-organise my plan for the night and allocate extra tasks to the other waiters to make up for the lack of staff and the additional people. There were many situations to rearrange, such as seating, the number of staff allocated to each job and the extra materials needed to serve the guests. 

Whilst it was lucky a staff member was willing to work that night, without the ability to adapt quickly and evaluate a situation, the night would not have gone smoothly with the multiple changes that occurred.

Selection criteria: Strong analytical skills and attention to detail

Analytical skills are essential in the workplace as they tie in with problem-solving. An employer wants to understand how you gather information, analyse it, and solve problems that ensure a smooth workplace productivity flow.

Analytical skills criteria example

It is essential in any job to constantly evaluate simple and complex problems in the workplace using skills such as paying attention to detail and researching and analysing problems. 

When I was completing my Certificate IV in Bookkeeping, I was required to undertake a group assignment that required us to record an actual business’s financial affairs for a month. We worked with Benjamin’s Patisserie to help ensure his sales and costs were accurate. Whilst spending time at the café and working closely with the staff, I noticed that all staff completed multiple jobs throughout their shift with no allocated task for each. It became noticeable that some team members were more suited to a specific task such as serving, making coffee and working the cash register. I suggested to the owner Benjamin that he allocate tasks to each staff member based on their strengths and weaknesses. Immediately I noticed that sales increased as there was a smoother flow of productivity in the café, tasks were completed efficiently and at a higher standard than before. It is crucial always to analyse ways an organisation can improve or if there is an issue that you can resolve as it helps to increase success in the workplace.

What is the difference between selection criteria and selection process?

Selection criteria play a role in the selection process, and are used as a tool to choose the most suitable applicants for a position.

The selection process is the procedure an organisation uses to hire new people. Usually, the company will form a selection panel of two to three staff who will review all applications, then choose a group of applicants to advance to the interview stage. This process can include an interview, a written assessment, and psychometric testing. In most cases, this takes 4 to 8 weeks.

How do you write a good selection criteria?

To write a good selection criteria response, use the specific language from the job description, use concrete examples that prove you meet the criteria, and provide measurable outcomes where possible.

What is the difference between selection criteria and job qualifications?

Qualifications are a type of selection criteria, and are used in some jobs to ensure that a new hire has the appropriate certification to work in this role, as required by the industry.

How long should a selection criteria response be?

Generally, a selection criteria response should be around 250 words. This will vary depending on the question asked, however. For example, some criteria may only require you to state your qualifications. On the other hand, some may ask you to give a more detailed description of a scenario.

What kind of examples can you use in your selection criteria?

It’s usually best to use examples of times when you had to deal with an unusual or unexpected situation at work, but you can also use more general examples that show how you managed your day-to-day tasks.

What are some reasons for rejecting a response to selection criteria?

Hiring managers may reject an applicant who:

• Fails to proofread their selection criteria responses
• Fails to use concrete examples
• Uses irrelevant examples

Perfected your selection criteria responses?

… then you’re ready to polish your interview technique. Your interviewer is bound to ask some of these 38 interview questions — are you prepared for them?

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Addressing selection criteria

How to write convincing statements that hit key points

Selection criteria are the skills, knowledge, and experience required to successfully do the job.

A key aim of a job application is to demonstrate that you meet the inherent requirements of the role. While a resume may offer an overview of your skills and experience, statements that directly address the selection criteria provide more detail about how you have demonstrated the competencies required to do the job. The employer can then compare candidates against the same set of criteria.

Where do I address selection criteria?

Keep the selection criteria in mind when describing your skills on your resume, but most employers will also expect you to address the selection criteria more directly elsewhere in your application.

Here are the most common formats for addressing selection criteria:

A statement of claims against selection criteria is a document where you will use each criterion as a heading and write a description of how you meet each one. Organisations that use this method of addressing selection criteria include government departments, non-government organisations (NGOs), universities and research institutes. They will request this document in the job advertisement or information package. Use the title the organisation has given this document and include the job title and reference number, if applicable, as well as your name as a header on each page. Deal with the criteria in the same order as in the advertisement or duty statement.

An online application may require you to address each criterion in a text box within an online form. This process is very similar to writing the statement of claims against selection criteria mentioned above. Alternatively, the selection criteria may be phrased as questions that you will need to answer in detail, for example:

• “Can you describe a time you have successfully worked as part of a team?” (Selection criterion: teamwork skills)
• “What have you gained from your studies in chemistry?” (Selection criterion: knowledge and skills specific to chemistry)
• Why are you applying to work in our consulting department?” (Selection criterion: knowledge of and interest in consulting)

Online applications are commonly used by large organisations and in recruitment for graduate or internship programs.  

A cover letter in which you will address the selection criteria more briefly and in the format of a formal single page letter. Be aware that some organisations require that you write both a cover letter AND a statement against the selection criteria.

Examples of selection criteria

Selection criteria often fall into two main categories: essential and desirable. It is important to address both essential and desirable criteria to maximise your chance of being selected for an interview. Within these two categories, there are different types of criteria that refer to different requirements.

Qualifications

Usually a degree, diploma or other certified training course. Example: ‘A minimum four-year degree in Social Work, Psychology or related discipline.’

These can be technical, discipline-specific or transferable skills .

Technical example: 'Intermediate programming skills, preferably using Python and/or SQL.'

Discipline specific example: 'Sound research skills including the ability to conduct literature reviews and analyse data.'

Transferable example: 'Excellent time management skills including an ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.'

This refers to duties or activities that you have performed before. Remember that experience can be gained through a variety of avenues including volunteering and extracurricular activities.

General example: 'Customer service experience.'

Specific example: 'Experience in arts administration, preferably within a gallery or museum.'

An understanding of a subject area through exposure, study or experience. Example: 'An understanding of marketing principles relevant to the FMCG industry.'

How to address selection criteria

To address selection criteria in a one-page cover letter, see our cover letter tips and template . 

Your responses to the selection criteria in a statement of claims or online application form will be more detailed and contain enough evidence to convince the employer that you meet the job criteria. A simple one- or two-line answer will rarely be sufficient.

The key to writing a strong response lies in identifying examples of instances where you have clearly demonstrated the required competency. Use the STAR formula to construct your answer. About 80% of your answer should focus on the 'Action', describing what you did and how you did it.

Example selection criteria using STAR

Criterion: Demonstrated problem solving skills and initiative.

Situation – where, when, and context of your example.

As the event coordinator for the University’s Science in Media Society, I volunteered to organise a fundraising event for a cancer research facility while in the final year of my Communications and Media Studies degree.

Task – the task or problem to be solved.

Our budget was cut during the preliminary planning and I needed to devise a strategy on how to run the event with only half the funds I was anticipating.

Action – how you solved the problem, fulfilled the task or handled the situation. What did you do and how did you do it, that demonstrates the criterion you are addressing?

In the first instance, I calculated which expenses were critical and could be covered by our current budget. Next, I decided to make up the shortfall by approaching local businesses for sponsorship. I created an online flyer to outline the benefits of getting involved, such as positive publicity and the opportunity to raise their profile with high achieving students, and cold called 36 targeted businesses. To ensure a good attendance at the event I utilised my social media skills to activate a network of potential supporters, and advertise an attractive range of lucky door prizes.

Result – the outcome/s achieved as result of your action/s. Quantify the result where possible.

As a result of my actions I convinced 11 businesses to contribute funds which covered all outstanding expenses. The event attracted over a hundred attendees and raised $5000 for the research facility. I was also subsequently invited by the University’s student association to contribute to a development workshop for new student leaders, in recognition of the skills I had displayed in managing this event.

Tips for addressing selection criteria

• When selecting examples, choose examples that are relevant to the criterion, the employer and the job. Where possible, select more recent examples, and use examples that give you the best opportunity to demonstrate your level of skill.
• For most industries, you can choose examples from a range of different activities such as internships, casual work, volunteering, university projects and extracurricular activities.
• If you are writing a statement of claims against selection criteria as a Word document, list criteria as headings in bold print, and address each criterion in a couple of paragraphs.
• For criteria with more than one part, eg, ‘Effective written and verbal communication skills’, ensure you address each part.
• Quantify your experience or outcomes if you can, eg, ‘three years’ experience in creating monthly budgets using Microsoft Excel’.
• Use action-oriented words, eg, ‘assessed’, ‘implemented’, ‘organised’, and ‘developed’, that reflect the language used in the job description.  
• Where you have extensive relevant experience to draw on, you can start your statement addressing a criterion with a brief summary of that experience and follow with one or two detailed examples.

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How to write a resume.

A clear, tailored and professional resume is essential for any job application. It should aim to convince an employer that your qualifications, work experience and skillset make you a strong match for the job.

How to write a cover letter

A cover letter is your first introduction to a potential employer, so it needs to show that you’re a suitable candidate.

Useful links

• Cracking the Code: How to apply for jobs in the Australian Public Service
• BOM Guide on Addressing Selection Criteria

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Selection Criteria

A selection criteria response structure.

Job applicants can become stuck on how to respond to selection criteria. There are several ways to construct a response. Here is one that can form part of your toolkit.

This is a three-part structure. I’ll illustrate it with the criterion: Well developed analytical and research skills. The context of the job is a strategic HR unit.

Part 1: General statement about the criterion.

This is a short paragraph that makes a broad statement about meeting the criterion. Make sure you use the language of the criterion so that the reader knows you are talking about the right skill set.

My well developed analytical and research skills have been demonstrated during five years working as an academic research assistant and in implementing a government grants program. In both roles I researched and analysed information about complex social issues including homelessness, obesity and literacy problems.

Part 2: Specific example/s to support the criterion.

The examples are specific instances of applying research and analytical skills. They can be structured using the SAR model:

• Situation: Briefly outline the context of the example and what your role was.
• Action: Give details of what you did, how and why.
• Result: Briefly outline what the result was. This could be a tangible item, such as a report. If this result is measurable, then include this information. Measures can be quantitative (e.g. numbers, cost) and qualitative (e.g. standards).

While Project Officer for the Community Grants Program, I researched and analysed options for a consultative process with community groups. My role was to prepare an executive briefing paper which identified options and recommended a course of action.

I reviewed eight consultative processes used by various government agencies, three recommended by private consultants, and completed a literature review covering the last ten years. Using a set of criteria I established based on this material, I summarised the processes, selected four that best met the Community Grants Program needs, evaluated them based on the criteria and recommended one. My recommendation was accepted by the executive, with commendations on the quality of the briefing paper. I am now developing a strategy for introducing this option into the program.

Part 3: Link to job in hand.

If there is a gap between the examples provided and the work to be done in the new job, you may wish to close with a short statement that signals the transferability of your skills to the new job.

I anticipate that these research and analysis skills will readily transfer to researching and analysing strategic HR issues such as staff engagement, talent management and workplace planning.

• Career presentations
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• Job applications
• Job interviews
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• Career Management
• Capabilities
• Daring Dames
• Sensemaking

Your Keys to Selection Criteria

Selection Criteria Example: Prioritising Skills

Almost every position advertised these days will have a selection criteria that wants you to demonstrate skills in prioritising your work. Even if the selection criteria is all about organisation, prioritising is an important sub-set of this skill. This article will help you to address these criteria more effectively.

• What "kind" of criteria is this?
• Things to write about.
• Still stuck? Try answering these questions.
• Prioritising skills selection criteria example.
• More selection criteria examples.

What "Kind" of Criteria is This?

The first step in addressing one of these selection criteria is determining what kind of selection criteria it is. There are five kinds of selection criteria, and in this case, we are dealing with a skills and abilities selection criteria.

Skills and abilities selection criteria can include skills which are quantitative (or measurable) such as engineering skills, computer skills, mathematical abilities etc. It can also include more conceptual skills (which are harder to measure) such as interpersonal and negotiation skills, strategic planning abilities etc.

If a criterion asks about your ability to do something, you should describing your skills and giving an example of your level of ability.

For example:

• How can you prove your skill/ability?
• How have you improved your skill/ability?
• How much experience do you have in this area?
• What skills do you have that are transferable to the position and would support your ability?
• Provide a few examples of your skills/abilities in action.

Prioritising Skills; Things to Write About

Show that you:

• Can convert objectives into achievable tasks
• Follow work schedules
• Set work goals
• Can prioritise tasks
• Determine the relative importance of tasks
• Have resources and tools available to complete work tasks (e.g. uses a to do list, calendar etc)
• Develop systems to organise work and time
• Plan tasks appropriately and realistically
• Track the progress of tasks
• Work effectively under tight deadlines
• Monitor progress and re-prioritises as necessary
• Meet deadlines
• Meet job responsibilities

Still Stuck? Try Answering These Questions:

• What sort of deadlines are you required to meet as both an individual and a member of a team?
• How do you go about managing your workload and priorities to achieve these required deadlines?
• What tools do you use to plan, prioritise and organise your workload?
• When there is an unexpected, extra important or special task to complete, how do you prioritise this with the rest of your work?
• How do you decide which tasks are the most important?
• Write about a time when you have had to adjust your work schedule due to a change in priorities. Why did you have to do this, and and how did you go about it?

Selection Criteria Example

My current position as Project Reporter is extremely autonomous. I am responsible for identifying projects within the organisation that have specific reporting needs, and completing project reports on an independent basis. I am faced with tight time frames to complete these exercises, write the reports and submit to relevant delegates, and I work without supervision. This position requires high level prioritising skills, and I regularly use my strong negotiation skills to negotiate with different work areas regarding competing priorities. I currently spend half of my working hours in an office, and the other half consulting at various sites around Queensland. This requires forward planning abilities, excellent time management skills, and a solid work ethic. Because I often work on up to four projects at one time, I use a variety of tools to prioritise and organise my work, and schedule my time. I use a smartphone as a mobile diary and task list, and I have authored an Access database and Excel spreadsheet to assist with tracking projects, which I also carry with me at all times on my smartphone. The Access database contains details of each individual reporting project and the Excel spreadsheet is used as a timesheet so that I can track my daily hours against each project. Although these are simple tools, the accuracy of the information contained is crucial for tracking productivity information and reporting against personal and team key performance indicators. It also helps me to prioritise tasks against approaching deadlines and can highlight bottlenecks in timelines. I have found that by identifying bottlenecks I am able to prioritise the most important tasks to ensure that my timelines and plans are not compromised. I have found that embracing IT tools and automating a lot of general organisation has reduced the time needed for general administration, allowing me to concentrate on the work at hand. I have the ability to prioritise tasks and continually re-assess work flows and priorities in a busy and demanding environment. The key factors I use when assessing priorities are deadlines and operational implications. I have also demonstrated my strong prioritising skills in my previous role as Project Manager where I organised my work between:

• Managing four contracts with a value of approximately $12 million dollars
• Supervising and coordinating the work of a team of five Project Assistants
• Participating on tender evaluation boards as an independent member
• Acting as subject matter expert on selection advisory committees for recruitment actions within my own team and other projects
• Taking on the role of Occupational Health and Safety representative for my building
• Acting as Project Manager when the permanent manager is on leave or working internationally

All of these tasks required different time inputs with varying and often conflicting deadlines. In addition, I reported to different people for most of these tasks and have found over the past four years in this role that I have gained exceptional skills in balancing different managers and stakeholders who invariably all want my attention at the same time. I think my excellent organisational skills and negotiation skills have made it possible to juggle these priorities and keep all parties satisfied that their task has my full attention.

More Selection Criteria Examples

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