Demonstrating your competencies
Below are some examples of how to address competencies in your application. These are only suggested answers, and your answer does not have to conform exactly to the examples given below.
Developing Productive Relationships
Builds effective working relationships with a diversity of individuals and groups.
In my last post at XYZ Council as an Assistant Auditor and Fraud Investigator, it was very important that I gained the trust of people across the organisation. I dealt with all levels of people, from front line staff to senior managers, discussed sensitive information with them, and sometimes had to reassure them that they could make their comments in confidence. During my two years in the department, I successfully investigated 20 cases, reducing levels of fraud by 10 per cent.
Delivering results
Works hard, takes ownership and consistently meets or exceeds targets.
At XYZ Council, I was responsible for preparing the year-end accounts for the Social Services department. To achieve the required level of accuracy within the tight deadlines, I first met the chief accountant to discuss her requirements and understand the overall programme. I then organised a meeting of departmental staff to agree objectives and understand key issues. This meant that any potential problems were addressed and resolved early, and we were the first department to close our accounts.
A particular issue in this project was the accountancy breakdown for Section 31 partnerships with the NHS. I obtained signed agreements and researched accounting standards through my professional contacts. I then confirmed with the chief accountant that this would meet required standards, and was able to arrange for the necessary accounting entries to take place in good time. The auditors were very satisfied with the papers provided in the audit.
Promoting Diversity
Promotes respect for people, recognises differing needs and expectations and challenges all oppressive practice.
In my current role as a Customer Service Adviser I deal with a wide range of queries from customers from a variety of backgrounds. I ensure that I treat customers fairly and according to their needs. An example of this was when a customer who was hearing impaired came to me for assistance. Although I was speaking slowly to assist them with lip reading, they were still struggling to understand what I was saying. I therefore communicated with the individual by writing things down and they responded in the same way. They even went as far as thanking me for my help, in writing.
When planning events I always consider the differing needs of the audience by gathering information such as dietary requirements, if there is a religious festival taking place at that time of the year which will exclude individuals from attending, any access requirements or special equipment that needs to be ordered to ensure everybody can take part in activities etc.
Collaborating and Teamworking
Demonstrates commitment to colleagues, team objectives and collaborative working opportunities.
While working as an administrator at ABC I was responsible for setting up an outreach event targeting lone parents. My role involved meeting with other colleagues across the organisation, exchanging ideas and opinions and setting up a programme for the day. I booked the venue, clarified team roles and responsibilities and arranged for representative from various teams to contribute on the actual day. I worked with departmental representatives to create marketing material and despatch invites to our target audience.
The event was very successful and feedback received was positive. As a result of this, I have been asked to consider hosting a similar event on a quarterly basis.