When applying for a job within Australian Public Service or APS, there are lots of things you need to know. Applicants are submitted to a process similar to that performed by large corporations; every aspect of your professional development is checked and put to the test.
Among various things, you need to show your proficiency, experience and the ability to work under pressure. Before you even get an opportunity for an interview, you have to rely on a statement of claims to make the first impression.
So what is this document? How can it help your job search? Read on to find out!
What is the statement of claims?
First of all, it is worth mentioning that the statement of claims is an official document. As such, providing false information is not allowed and can be punished by the law.
Whenever APS posts a job, there will be a set of requirements attached to it. Similar to other job postings, this might include the ability to work in specific software, working within an industry for a certain number of years, having a proven track record and so on.
Given that Australian Public Service jobs are in high demand; it is very important for recruiters to eliminate candidates that simply cannot perform the job. This is especially true for higher positions where things get a bit trickier.
Some of the requirements are really hard to present properly. This is why you have to show the ability to handle mundane situations. You have to show how you were able to address a particular issue and what kind of results you’ve gotten. This is where a statement of claims come into play.
Within this document, you are able to depict specific, job-related situations and how you handled them. The APS doesn’t want candidates who only have experience; they want people who can handle a challenge. In order to corroborate claims, a person has to rely on the STAR model.
What is STAR model?
Statement of claims is like an actionable cover letter; it isn’t used to list your achievements or education but instead, it is used to show your proficiency and help you create the first contact with recruiters.
Its format allows you to answer all the questions recruiters might add and show how you meet job requirements. Candidates are urged to use STAR model as a way of confirming information presented within the resume.
STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result. With it, you’re able to explain specific job-related situations, what was your task during these situations, what kind of an action you took and what were the results. Unlike a bland resume, it shows your expertize, experience and the ability to think on your feet. The document answers all the questions that recruiters might have showing them a glimpse into your persona.
Of course, the main reason why a person would use the STAR model is to show how they behave in common situations. The APS doesn’t care about degrees or titles; it cares about people who can provide value to the system. Statement of claims puts emphasis on work performance and the ability to meet new challenges and face unpredictable situations.
Last thoughts
Statement of claim is a serious document. In fact, it can be said that it is one of the most serious documents you will ever create for job application. Because of this fact, you shouldn’t lie in your application.
If you have any questions regarding the statement of claims or you’re uncertain how to create it, there are some awesome resume creation companies like Path Consulting that can help you out!
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