The number one mistake made by applicants is not addressing selection criteria (we’ll save that for another article!) but for those who do address criteria, a common theme emerges, and unfortunately there are generally more things wrong with statements addressing criteria than there are things right. Important points can be easily overlooked when you have a number of criteria to write against and you are concentrating on using exactly the right words and grammar and trying to sound intelligent. More important than trying to sound impressive however is making sure you’re address the right things. An applicant who does not address a criterion correctly will often be eliminated before the interview stage due to “poorly substantiated claims.”

(1) Before you address the selection criteria, ensure you fully understand what is mean by each criterion. If you are unsure, ask the contact officer.

(2) Take note of the expression used. For example:

“demonstrated experience”
“ability to”
“knowledge of”
“commitment to”
“awareness of”
“understanding”

It is important that you take note of these keywords, and reflect them in your responses. It is not good for example, if you spend a page detailing theory about a topic and your knowledge of something if the criterion is asking for “demonstrated experience” or “ability to”.

Applying this in practice:

If a criterion asks for demonstrated experience make sure you demonstrate your experience.
- Where did you gain your experience?
- How many years experience do you have?
- What level of proficiency have you reached?
- How has this experience benefited your current employer?
- Provide a few examples of your experience in action.

If a criterion asks about your ability to do something, give an example of your level of ability.
- How can you prove your ability?
- How can you improve your ability?
- How much experience do you have?
- What skills do you have that are transferable to the position and support your ability?
- Provide a few examples of your abilities in action.

If a criterion asks for your understanding of something, don’t just simply state what your understanding is, anyone can cut and past from a text book.
- Where did you gain your understanding?
- How is it relevant to the position?
- How would you or how have you applied it?
- How to you intend to further develop your understanding?

If a criterion asks for your commitment to something (commonly phrased as “understanding of and commitment to the Code of Conduct” for example) provide examples of how you commit to the principle. Knowing and understanding are generally not enough.

By ensuring that you are addressing the expression, you are one step closer to having a relevant and targeted application!