LibGuides: Career and employment help: Cover Letters and Selection Criteria

Resources for Selection Criteria

Get that government job : the secrets to winning positions with selection criteria by Dawn Richards.
Call Number: HF5383 .R52 2010

ISBN: 9781921874000

Publication Date: 2010

Introduction -- Chapter 1. Understanding the selection process -- Chapter 2. Getting started on your application -- Chapter 3. Translating selection criteria into simple english -- Chapter 4. Marketing yourself to the employer -- Chapter 5. Polishing up your writing -- Chapter 6. Preparing your resume -- Chapter 7. Writing your selection criteria statement -- Chapter 8. Finalising your application -- Chapter 9. Winning the job at the interview.
How to write and talk to selection criteria : improving your chances of winning a job by Ann Villiers.
Call Number: HF5383 .V54 2011

ISBN: 9780975756133

Publication Date: 2011

How to Write and Talk to Selection Criteria (5th edn.) is designed for adult career changers, public servants, trainees and graduates interested in progressing their career in government. Whether your interest is in Australian, state territory or local government, you must understand selection criteria. This book unravels the mystery of selection criteria, both job-specific and capability-based, and offers a step-by-step guide to writing and talking to them

Cover Letters and Selection Criteria

A cover letter is a one-page document sent with your resume to provide additional information about your skills and experiences. It introduces you to potential employers and explains your suitability for the desired position. Typically, it includes three to four short paragraphs where you mention the role, your interest, skills, and relevant experience you have in relation to the job you're applying for..

You can expand on information around:

Technical Skills: Relevant experience, qualifications, and certifications.
Personal Traits: Customer-oriented, attention to detail, team player.
Requirements: Education, work experience, qualifications, and certifications.
Skills and Abilities: Relevant skills, abilities, and knowledge.
Personal Qualities: Key personal attributes.

Tips for answering Selection Criteria:

Examine the job description.
Distinguish between essential and desired criteria.
Be Specific: Clearly define what you want to measure. Avoid vague terms and use precise language.
Provide examples using the STAR method

Addressing Selection Criteria and the STAR method

1. Understand the STAR Method

Use the STAR method to structure your responses:

Situation – Describe the context.
Task – Explain your role or responsibility.
Action – Detail the steps you took.
Result – Share the outcome and impact.

This method ensures your answers are clear, concise, and evidence-based.

2. Tailor Each Response

Use keywords from the job description.
Align your examples with the specific duties of the role.
Avoid generic statements—focus on relevant achievements.

3. Be Specific and Quantify Where Possible

Instead of saying “I improved library services,” say:

“I implemented a new cataloguing system that reduced search times by 30% and increased user satisfaction scores by 15%.”

4. Use Active Language

Start sentences with strong verbs like developed, led, implemented, collaborated, or resolved.

5. Keep It Concise

Aim for half to one page per criterion, unless otherwise specified.
Avoid repetition and overly technical jargon.

6. Proofread Carefully

Check for grammar, spelling, and clarity.
Ask a colleague or mentor to review your responses.

7. Align with the Organisation’s Values

Refer to the organisation’s strategic plan, mission, or values.
Demonstrate how your work supports their goals.