Good examples of Civil Service competency answers?

detectivebox

I've applied for three separate jobs with the Civil Service over the past few months. I've passed the "Civil Service Initial Sift Test" achieving higher than 75% of candidates who have previously taken the test, which is apparently a good score.

However, every single time I've failed the competency sift achieving a "3" (Moderate Demonstration) rating for my examples on each occasion. I believe this is a score out of 5, with 5 being the highest, best rating.

I've compared my answers to the positive and negative indicators in the framework, going through it very closely and I've absolutely certain I hit all of the positive indicators whilst showing no negative indicators - I previously worked in another organisation that used competency and a similar system and I always score very highly on them. I also use the suggested 'STAR' format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure my answers.

I just don't know what more I can do?

Are there any online examples of high scoring answers I can take I look at? Any advice on how I can improve my score? Like I said, I've already looked very closely at the positive and negative indicators.

Si_Gregory

Absolute luck of the draw I think. The best way to approach it is to structure it well (as you have done with STAR) and make sure your examples are as relevant as possible to the role.

I used the same application form for 2 roles in different departments. One, I didn't pass the sift. The other is for the job I'm sat in now. I passed comfortably.

Which grade are you looking at and for which department?

detectivebox

Both HEO and EO with DWP. The roles aren't something I have any professional experience with, but there aren't many roles that come up that are relevant to me, it's more the appeal of working within the CS. Something in civil enforcement would be great.

Si_Gregory

My usual method is to take the job ad and circle the key skills then work that in with the competences and behaviours. Imagine the hiring manager is checking off parts of your app that tie to the job.

Also, don't be afraid to ask for feedback. I had an application form I was sure was very good and I asked a hiring manager why it wasn't successful and she put me right on a few things.

If all else fails, PM me and I'll try to help.

lincroft1710

Perhaps you need to look at lower grade posts. Not as low as toilet cleaner as you said you were happy to do in your other thread but something at AO level.

Promotion from AO to EO is possible but not guaranteed