cover letter with key selection criteria

• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Address Key Selection Criteria in a Cover Letter

Last Updated: May 23, 2020 References

This article was co-authored by Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM . Shannon O'Brien is the Founder and Principal Advisor of Whole U. (a career and life strategy consultancy based in Boston, MA). Through advising, workshops and e-learning Whole U. empowers people to pursue their life's work and live a balanced, purposeful life. Shannon has been ranked as the #1 Career Coach and #1 Life Coach in Boston, MA by Yelp reviewers. She has been featured on Boston.com, Boldfacers, and the UR Business Network. She received a Master's of Technology, Innovation, & Education from Harvard University. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 64,027 times.

If you're applying for a job, you may be unsure how to write the cover letter or how to include key selection criteria. The key selection criteria, also known as the job requirements, are the main things your potential employer wants to see, and you must address each one in your cover letter. Start by figuring out exactly what the employer wants, and address them in the body of your letter. Follow up with a thorough proofreading, including checking your cover letter against the selection criteria.

Breaking down the Key Selection Criteria

• You could also ask the opinion of someone you know to see what they think it means.
• Some countries, such as Australia, require that all public-sector jobs provide a list of key selection criteria.

• For instance, maybe the job description states the following: "The employee will act as an intermediate between clients and the accounting department. They will take phone calls and emails from both sides, and they will be expected to communicate professionally."
• From this text, you can gather that one of the key criterion for the position is to be able to communicate on a professional level with both clients and other staff members.

Structuring Your Cover Letter to Fit the Criteria

• For instance, you might write, "My name is Jessica Roberta, and I am applying for the position of invoice coordinator, a position I heard about through a friend, Jerry Flores. I am uniquely suited for this position due to my 20+ years experience in invoicing, as well as the positions I've held as an administrative assistant."

• "I am applying for this position because I have the initiative, organizational skills, and relevant computer experience you are looking for in a candidate."
• Move on to discussing your examples of each criteria.

• Keep it concise and to the point, as you don't have much space in a cover letter.
• For instance, maybe you wrote, "training book project at the accounting firm," "burger job," and "school project." Pick the most important one.
• You could write, "I often take initiative on projects. For instance, when I realized my accounting firm didn't have a training manual, I took the initiative to create one myself."

• For instance, with good organizational skills, you might say, "I have strong organizational skills." Then go on to your example: "I reorganized the filing system for the office I worked in, and efficiency improved by 25%."

Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM

In the middle paragraph, include five bullet points that state your experience. Make your points relevant to the job you're applying for. Keep your cover letter short and concise with about three paragraphs and bold a couple of the essential words to make them pop off the page.

• For example, you might write the following closing paragraph: "In closing, I would love to work for Invoicing Brands. My valuable experience would make me a great fit. Thank you for your time, and if you need to reach me, I am available all this week and next at 123-456-7890 or [email protected]." [9] X Research source

Providing Examples and Checking Your Work

• For instance, you might write, "In my position as an invoice manager, I was able to submit invoices on time 98% of the time. I managed that by prioritizing incoming invoices and working quickly to get them done. Then I finished the rest of the work that needed to be done in the office."

• For example, you could write, "I have shown resiliency in past positions, particularly when I worked on a training manual at XYZ Financials. It took me several months to complete the project, partly due to lack of support and printing issues, but in the end, I persevered. XYZ Financials now has a training manual to be proud of."

• For example, you might write, "At my position with XYZ Financials, I noticed staff members wasted time because of an inefficient filing system. No one wanted to shut down the area long enough to reorganize it during the week. I came up with an innovative solution, a weekend refiling extravaganza. We took one weekend to completely reorganize the area."

• For instance, maybe 3 of the criteria are "good organizational skills," "takes initiative," and "competent computer skills."
• You might write, "In my position as an office clerk, I built a database to reorganize the office filing system. Efficiency improved by 25% in the office, and my manager was impressed by my computer skills, my organizational abilities, and my initiative."
• Read through your letter. As you do, check off each of the key selection criteria you were supposed to cover. Make sure you included as many as you could in the letter.

• For example, don't say, "My organizational skills aren't great, but I am fantastic on the computer."
• Instead, say, "My computer skills are above par, as evidenced by the fact that I developed a database for our filing system in my last position."

• Make sure you have spelling and grammar check enabled on your document to help you catch mistakes.
• Ensure you've set a formal tone throughout. A formal tone is more professional than an informal tone. Don't use slang, and avoid contractions. You can use jargon specific to your field, but only if you're sure your potential employer will know it. [16] X Research source
• Once you've polished it, let another person proofread it. You can ask someone you trust professionally, for instance. If you're a student, take it to the career center if your campus has one. [17] X Research source

• When looking for flow, check that each sentence moves smoothly into the next one. For instance, you might write the following sentences: "I gained experience in computer skills at my position at XYZ Financials. Because of this position, I have experience in Microsoft Office and databases."
• They flow together because you use one sentence to transition into the next, referencing the position from the previous sentence to begin the following sentence.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ https://careers.vic.gov.au/vacancies/key-selection-criteria
• ↑ https://www.monash.edu/career-connect/jobs/apply/selection-criteria
• ↑ http://www.jobs.uwa.edu.au/applying/written/addressing
• ↑ http://www.uvm.edu/~career/?Page=letter.html&SM=jobsubmenu.html
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/723/03/
• ↑ http://www.jobs.uwa.edu.au/applying/written/letter
• ↑ https://www.washington.edu/doit/key-elements-cover-letter
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/723/01/
• ↑ http://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/flow/

About this article

When writing a cover letter, you can give yourself the upper-hand by addressing each job requirement. First, carefully read through the job description and and highlight the requirements, like good communication skills or the ability to work under pressure. Then, write an example of your relevant education, training, or past job experience for each requirement so you can back them up with evidence. Use the body of your cover letter to address the requirements. If you have space, write a short paragraph for each requirement and link each one to a specific example from your experience. If this would take too much space, group together similar requirements with one example. For more tips from our Career Coach co-author, including how to write a compelling intro and conclusion to your cover letter, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

Reader Success Stories

Hamida Begum

Jun 30, 2022

Did this article help you?

• About wikiHow
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info

How to Write a Cover Letter Addressing Selection Criteria in 10 Steps

by Nicole Wren | Jan 29, 2024 | Writing Advice

Table of Contents

Some job applications will ask you to provide a response to selection criteria, as well as your resume or CV. These criteria are the specific skills and experience that a job requires. In many cases, the application guidelines request that the selection criteria should be responded to within a cover letter. (Sometimes, they request a response in a different format, like this APS Statement of Claims example ). Many people wonder how to write a cover letter addressing selection criteria, though (as selection criteria writers , we get asked daily!).

While your resume or CV should state that you have the relevant experience, a selection criteria response will require more detail and specific examples. As well as providing more information, selection criteria also provide a structured way to assess candidates.

The job ad might include something like this:

Let’s look at 10 things to keep in mind when addressing selection criteria in a cover letter.

1. Start Your Cover Letter in the Standard Cover Letter Format

Begin your cover letter in the standard format, with a header containing your contact information. Then, include the employer’s contact details, including their name (or a generic salutation like “Dear Hiring Manager”). Use a standard font and font size, like Arial 10-12.

2. (Opening Paragraph): Express Your Enthusiasm

Specifically state the role you are applying for. Convey your eagerness to contribute your skills and experience to the organisation. You might also like to mention the company’s values, and how your own align (tip: be specific and authentic here). If there is something else that attracts you to the organisation (such as a recent company achievement), you might like to mention it here, to show you have a good understanding of them.

3. (Body Paragraphs): List and Highlight Each Selection Criteria

List and highlight each of the selection criteria in the body of the cover letter. This will help you keep on task and ensure each selection criterion is adequately responded to (note: you should remove this at the end – see step 9).

4. (Body Paragraphs): Paraphrase Each Criterion and Your Experience

Write an introductory sentence for each criterion, paraphrasing the language and keywords used in the selection criterion.

5. (Body Paragraphs): Brainstorm Ideas for Each Criterion

Make some notes within your document, then choose your ‘best ideas’. Tip: you’ll need to be as specific as possible. Rather than saying you communicated daily with different customers in a previous role, think of a specific time you communicated with a specific customer, and how you had a positive impact.

6. (Body Paragraphs): Use the STAR Format for Each Example

The STAR format is a well-known way to structure selection criteria. It goes like this:

Situation (S): Briefly set the context by describing the situation or problem you encountered. Keep it concise to provide necessary background information. This section should make up approximately 10% of your response.

Task (T): Describe your specific role or task within the situation. Explain what was expected of you and any challenges or goals you needed to address. This section should make up around 10% of your response.

Action (A): This section should make up around 60% of your response. Describe the actions you took in detail. This is where you showcase your skills, competencies, and problem-solving abilities. Use specific examples, highlight your contributions, and explain your thought process.

Result (R): Approximately 20% of your response. Conclude by outlining the positive outcome or result of your actions. Mention any benefits to the organisation. While this is one of the smaller sections, it is one of the most important. Many candidates forget to include a strong result section.

Note, the STAR method is not necessary for yes/no criteria such as certain qualifications. For these criteria, you can simply state that you have the required qualifications.

7. (Conclusion Paragraph): Sign-off Positively

Conclude your cover letter with a short paragraph thanking the reader for their time, and welcoming the opportunity for an interview. You may like to reiterate your interest in the role.

8. Sign Off as in a Standard Cover Letter

End with a professional sign-off such as ‘Kind regards’ or ‘Yours Sincerely’, along with your full name. There is no need to sign the cover letter.

9. Remove the Highlighted Selection Criteria

Since these headings were included only as a guide for you, you should now remove them. Your introductory sentence within each paragraph will be enough to allow the reader to understand that you have addressed each one.

10. Proof-Read and Submit

Proof-read your document for any errors, including grammar and spelling. You may like to have a friend or family member complete this part for you. Another tip is to save the document as a PDF, and read through it that way (the doucmnet will look slightly different and will allow you to assess it with fresh eyes).

Cover Letter Addressing Selection Criteria Example

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you address selection criteria in a cover letter.

There are a few different formats for responding to selection criteria. Sometimes, you may be asked to respond to specific online questions related to the criteria. Sometimes, you may be asked to provide a ‘separate document’ style selection criteria response. Sometimes, you can address selection criteria in a cover letter. It is important that you thoroughly read the application guidelines to determine what is required.

How long should a cover letter addressing selection criteria be?

A cover letter addressing selection criteria should typically be between one to two pages. If the application guidelines specify a length, you should always adhere to that.

How to address selection criteria you don’t meet?

Selection criteria are sometimes deemed either essential or desirable. You should provide a response to both essential and desirable criteria, even if you don’t meet them. You should provide a summary of your most transferrable skills and experience.

Our selection criteria writers specialise in addressing selection criteria, both in cover letter and other formats.

Contact us if you need more assistance with your application.

Read our latest resume tips .

Nicole Wren

Senior Writer

Nicole is the principal resume writer at Resumes to Impress. Nicole loves writing and sharing her knowledge about all things job hunting and career guidance.

Recommended Services:

Selection Criteria Writing

• Adelaide Resume Writers
• Resume Writers Bendigo
• Resume Writing Service Brisbane
• Resume Writing Services Cairns
• Resume Writing Services Canberra
• Resume Writers Darwin
• Resume Writers Diamond Creek
• Resume Writing Services Geelong
• Resume Writing Services Gold Coast
• Hobart Resume Writers
• Resume Writers Launceston
• Resume Writers Mackay
• Melbourne Resume Writers
• Resume Writing Services Newcastle
• Resume Writers Parramatta
• Resume Writers Perth
• Resume Writers Sunshine Coast
• Resume Writers Toowoomba
• Resume Writing Services Townsville
• Resume Writers Wollongong
• Interview Coach
• LinkedIn Profile Writer
• Resume Writing Services For Veterans
• Mining Resume Writing Services
• Nurse Resume Service
• Professional IT Resume Writing Services

404 Not found

• List of services
• Employment services
• Current vacancies
• Register for job alerts
• Become a temp
• Submit your CV
• Other services
• Payroll services
• International candidates
• Job hunting blog
• Recruitment services
• Permanent recruitment
• Executive search
• Temp recruitment
• SEEK advertising
• DISC profiling
• Outplacement
• Payroll outsourcing
• Contingency vs retained
• Recruitment blog

How to address key selection criteria in a cover letter

This article is recommended for individuals near the beginning of their careers, introduction.

Having spent a significant portion of my career in the realm of recruitment, I've come to understand the importance of job seekers ably addressing the key selection criteria of a vacancy in their cover letter.

It can truly make or break your job application. This is particularly true when an employer has noted these criteria as basics.

Allow me to share with you a step-by-step guide for taking on the key selection criteria within your cover letter.

How to address selection criteria

Understand the criteria.

As a start, read over each of the key selection criteria talked about in the job ad. Make sure you have a clear grasp of what the employer is looking for in a candidate.

Create a table or list

Sort the key selection criteria into a table or a list format. This will help you keep track of each criterion and your answer to it. 

Use specific example

For each criterion, give specific examples from your past work experiences, education, or other related aspects of your background that show your skills, abilities, and experiences related to that criterion. Be sure to talk about your achievements, responsibilities, and any measurable results.

Follow the STAR method

When discussing each criterion, try using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to write your responses. Describe the situation or context, the task you had to carry out, the actions you took, and the results you gained. This is a clear and concise way to show your qualifications.

Highlight relevance

Make a strong link between your qualifications and the requirements of the job. Explain how your skills and experiences align with the specific criteria and how they will elevate your success in the role.

Tailor each response

Customise your answers for each criterion to match the language and terms used in the job ad. This shows your attention to detail and that you've carefully thought about the employer's needs.

While giving detailed examples is important, aim to keep your responses concise and focused. Avoid undue elaboration or extra details that could take away from the main points.

Prioritise & order

Cover the key selection criteria in the order of importance as shown in the job ad. If the criteria are not explicitly ranked, try addressing them in the order that best reveals your strengths and relevance to the role.

After drafting your responses, carefully edit your cover letter to ensure it is free of errors, typos, and grammatical mistakes. A well-written cover letter shows your professionalism and attention to detail.

Overall cover letter structure

Integrate your answers into the overall structure of your cover letter. Start with an introduction that briefly talks about the role you're applying for and why you're interested. Then address the key selection criteria, using a paragraph for each criterion. Finally, finish with a summary of your enthusiasm for the role and your availability for further discussion.

If you're looking for more in-depth help with cover letter writing, please click the button below to read my free e-book on the topic.

By following these steps, you'll be able to effectively discuss key selection criteria in your cover letter, making a great case for your suitability for the job.

Remember to customise each cover letter for the specific position you're applying to, as a tailored approach is more likely to capture the employer's attention.

For further assistance, I recommend you check out myfuture's article: How to respond to key selection criteria .

Are you looking for a job?

Now that you understand how to address key selection criteria in a cover letter, you should take a moment to check our  current vacancies page .

At 11 Recruitment, we have a range of white-collar temp and perm jobs available. We're always on the lookout for top talent to place with our clients, so we encourage you to apply for any positions that are of interest.

If none of our current vacancies are right for you, you should register for job alerts . Then we’ll be able to notify you when we receive a position that matches your profile.

How to go from temp to perm

What to say if you’re late for an interview

How to make conversation

What questions to ask in an informational interview

How to stand out in a group interview

How to identify transferable skills

Is it illegal to lie on your resume?

How to ask someone to be a referee

How to use ChatGPT to write a cover letter

How to write a resume for international students

How to add education to LinkedIn

Do I need a resume to apply for a job?

How to be more likeable

How to determine what motivates you

How to find a job in Perth

How to network to get a job

How to get your dream job

Questions to ask while networking

How to impress in an interview

Do you need a cover letter?

Click here to learn more about 11 Recruitment

What are your thoughts?

I'd love to have a conversation with you about this topic - please leave a comment below if you have any thoughts or opinions 🙂

Christian Madsen

Managing Director of 11 Recruitment

How to prompt ChatGPT to write a cover letter

How to write a cv, what not to wear to an interview.

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Writing Your Key Selection Criteria Responses

Posted october 13, 2011, by sue stevens.

Many people applying for government jobs for the first time may not be aware of the importance of selection criteria responses, or how to approach them. These are a critical part of most government applications and essential to creating an outstanding application. 

Even if you have a brilliant resume that shows you have excellent skills and qualifications to do the job and you’ve written an absolutely sensational cover letter tailored to the position , if you don’t address the selection criteria in a separate document that explains how well you fit each criterion, chances are you will be overlooked. Fulfilling the selection criteria to the satisfaction of the selection committee is the only way you can make it across the line to the next stage of the recruitment process – the interview.

Where to start?

The first thing you need to do is find out what the selection criteria are. You will find them either in the advertisement or on the government department’s website along with a downloadable job application kit.

Then you need to create a new document and list all the criteria, word for word, as they appear in the job application kit.

Name the document and make sure you include your own name at the top of the page. You can use a heading such as:

• Statement addressing selection criteria
• Selection criteria summary
• Responses to selection criteria
• Statement of claims, selection criteria

FYI When it comes to naming documents, all your application documentation should have your name prominently displayed and it’s best to name the electronic documents with your name, not just ‘selection_criteria.doc’. This will make it easy for the receiver to identify your document from all the others that have also been submitted.

Give examples

When answering the selection criteria think about how you meet each selection criterion and list examples of relevant skills, experience, incidents, training and personal qualities. You need to make the link between what you can do, and have done in the past, and how it relates to the job. If you don’t have any actual work experience, use other relevant experience such as something you have done at university, for a voluntary organisation or a club to illustrate your capacity to undertake the work required.

In every answer to the criteria, you need to demonstrate that you have developed and practised these skills in your past experience/s. It’s not enough to just state that you can do ‘it’.

Use keywords

Part of the trick of responding to selection criteria is identifying and understanding the keywords in each criterion and incorporating these into your response. These subtle differences and the way you word your response could be what sets you apart from the other applicants.

Know the difference between phrases such as ‘ability to’ (means having the skills), ‘knowledge of’ (familiarity gained from actual experience) and ‘understanding of’ (fully comprehend the matter). Incorporate your understanding of these terms into your response and you’re on the right track to submitting an outstanding statement.

Choose the right words

When writing a selection criterion response, find one excellent example from your past and demonstrate what and how you achieved a good outcome. Make sure that you use strong action words such as ‘demonstrated’, ‘reviewed’, ‘developed’, ‘initiated’ or ‘negotiated’ rather than less powerful words such as ‘involved in’ or ‘assisted’.

Always give examples and avoid unsubstantiated claims. You can use bullet points if there is a list of points you are making.

Address all the parts

More often than not, selection criteria will consist of several parts and are sometimes qualified as either essential (must-have skills and experience) or desirable (good to have and improve your chances of being highly regarded).

It is tempting to write a broad response focusing on just one part of the criterion and hope this will get you through. But if you want to hit the selection criteria nail on the head and guarantee yourself an interview, then this isn’t good enough.

For example, ‘Ability to contribute ideas and demonstrate initiative and flexibility’ actually has three components – ability to contribute ideas, demonstrate initiative and demonstrate flexibility. In order to respond to this correctly it is vital that you address all three of these skills, making sure to include the keywords in your response.

STAR approach

As mentioned above, the key to responding to selection criteria well is to address all parts of the criterion, to include the keywords and give specific examples. Many well-written statements follow what is known as the STAR method of response: Situation, Task, Action, Result.

The following example response is broken up into the STAR components, with each section labelled. This is for your benefit – don’t label the sections in your final statement!

Ability to apply academic knowledge and concepts to practical situations

Another acceptable way of answering selection criteria is SAO: Situation, Action, Outcome. Whether you choose STAR or SAO, it is important that you show how you can meet each criterion.

The final touches

Some government departments and agencies do not want any more than three paragraphs per criterion (or about 250 words); others do not have any limit. As a general rule, try to be as concise as possible and at the maximum, write no more than one A4 page per criterion.

Once you have completed your statement of claims in relation to selection criteria, check over your responses and make sure there are no typographical errors and that the sentences read well.

Finally, make sure that the formatting of your selection criteria document matches the accompanying resume (or CV), cover letter and any other documentation you are submitting. By having a consistent formatting style with fonts and font sizes, your application will present as a cohesive whole. This alone shows that you have taken considerable care and attention to detail.

Get the selection criteria right and you’re on your way to an interview – and one step closer to the job!

If you’re looking for inspiration, take a look at our sample key selection criteria responses . 

Sue stevens.

Thanks for your enquiry

Good luck with your studies.

Addressing selection criteria

How to write convincing statements that hit key points

Selection criteria are the skills, knowledge, and experience required to successfully do the job.

A key aim of a job application is to demonstrate that you meet the inherent requirements of the role. While a resume may offer an overview of your skills and experience, statements that directly address the selection criteria provide more detail about how you have demonstrated the competencies required to do the job. The employer can then compare candidates against the same set of criteria.

Where do I address selection criteria?

Keep the selection criteria in mind when describing your skills on your resume, but most employers will also expect you to address the selection criteria more directly elsewhere in your application.

Here are the most common formats for addressing selection criteria:

A statement of claims against selection criteria is a document where you will use each criterion as a heading and write a description of how you meet each one. Organisations that use this method of addressing selection criteria include government departments, non-government organisations (NGOs), universities and research institutes. They will request this document in the job advertisement or information package. Use the title the organisation has given this document and include the job title and reference number, if applicable, as well as your name as a header on each page. Deal with the criteria in the same order as in the advertisement or duty statement.

An online application may require you to address each criterion in a text box within an online form. This process is very similar to writing the statement of claims against selection criteria mentioned above. Alternatively, the selection criteria may be phrased as questions that you will need to answer in detail, for example:

• “Can you describe a time you have successfully worked as part of a team?” (Selection criterion: teamwork skills)
• “What have you gained from your studies in chemistry?” (Selection criterion: knowledge and skills specific to chemistry)
• Why are you applying to work in our consulting department?” (Selection criterion: knowledge of and interest in consulting)

Online applications are commonly used by large organisations and in recruitment for graduate or internship programs.  

A cover letter in which you will address the selection criteria more briefly and in the format of a formal single page letter. Be aware that some organisations require that you write both a cover letter AND a statement against the selection criteria.

Examples of selection criteria

Selection criteria often fall into two main categories: essential and desirable. It is important to address both essential and desirable criteria to maximise your chance of being selected for an interview. Within these two categories, there are different types of criteria that refer to different requirements.

Qualifications

Usually a degree, diploma or other certified training course. Example: ‘A minimum four-year degree in Social Work, Psychology or related discipline.’

These can be technical, discipline-specific or transferable skills .

Technical example: 'Intermediate programming skills, preferably using Python and/or SQL.'

Discipline specific example: 'Sound research skills including the ability to conduct literature reviews and analyse data.'

Transferable example: 'Excellent time management skills including an ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.'

This refers to duties or activities that you have performed before. Remember that experience can be gained through a variety of avenues including volunteering and extracurricular activities.

General example: 'Customer service experience.'

Specific example: 'Experience in arts administration, preferably within a gallery or museum.'

An understanding of a subject area through exposure, study or experience. Example: 'An understanding of marketing principles relevant to the FMCG industry.'

How to address selection criteria

To address selection criteria in a one-page cover letter, see our cover letter tips and template . 

Your responses to the selection criteria in a statement of claims or online application form will be more detailed and contain enough evidence to convince the employer that you meet the job criteria. A simple one- or two-line answer will rarely be sufficient.

The key to writing a strong response lies in identifying examples of instances where you have clearly demonstrated the required competency. Use the STAR formula to construct your answer. About 80% of your answer should focus on the 'Action', describing what you did and how you did it.

Example selection criteria using STAR

Criterion: Demonstrated problem solving skills and initiative.

Situation – where, when, and context of your example.

As the event coordinator for the University’s Science in Media Society, I volunteered to organise a fundraising event for a cancer research facility while in the final year of my Communications and Media Studies degree.

Task – the task or problem to be solved.

Our budget was cut during the preliminary planning and I needed to devise a strategy on how to run the event with only half the funds I was anticipating.

Action – how you solved the problem, fulfilled the task or handled the situation. What did you do and how did you do it, that demonstrates the criterion you are addressing?

In the first instance, I calculated which expenses were critical and could be covered by our current budget. Next, I decided to make up the shortfall by approaching local businesses for sponsorship. I created an online flyer to outline the benefits of getting involved, such as positive publicity and the opportunity to raise their profile with high achieving students, and cold called 36 targeted businesses. To ensure a good attendance at the event I utilised my social media skills to activate a network of potential supporters, and advertise an attractive range of lucky door prizes.

Result – the outcome/s achieved as result of your action/s. Quantify the result where possible.

As a result of my actions I convinced 11 businesses to contribute funds which covered all outstanding expenses. The event attracted over a hundred attendees and raised $5000 for the research facility. I was also subsequently invited by the University’s student association to contribute to a development workshop for new student leaders, in recognition of the skills I had displayed in managing this event.

Tips for addressing selection criteria

• When selecting examples, choose examples that are relevant to the criterion, the employer and the job. Where possible, select more recent examples, and use examples that give you the best opportunity to demonstrate your level of skill.
• For most industries, you can choose examples from a range of different activities such as internships, casual work, volunteering, university projects and extracurricular activities.
• If you are writing a statement of claims against selection criteria as a Word document, list criteria as headings in bold print, and address each criterion in a couple of paragraphs.
• For criteria with more than one part, eg, ‘Effective written and verbal communication skills’, ensure you address each part.
• Quantify your experience or outcomes if you can, eg, ‘three years’ experience in creating monthly budgets using Microsoft Excel’.
• Use action-oriented words, eg, ‘assessed’, ‘implemented’, ‘organised’, and ‘developed’, that reflect the language used in the job description.  
• Where you have extensive relevant experience to draw on, you can start your statement addressing a criterion with a brief summary of that experience and follow with one or two detailed examples.

Register for career skills workshops

How to write a resume.

A clear, tailored and professional resume is essential for any job application. It should aim to convince an employer that your qualifications, work experience and skillset make you a strong match for the job.

How to write a cover letter

A cover letter is your first introduction to a potential employer, so it needs to show that you’re a suitable candidate.

Useful links

• Cracking the Code: How to apply for jobs in the Australian Public Service
• BOM Guide on Addressing Selection Criteria

How to use STAR in selection criteria & cover letters

• Post author: Joel Smith
• Post published: September 29, 2021
• Post category: Cover Letters / Selection Criteria

How to use STAR

How incorporate STAR into your own writing process.

By Joel Smith

Navigate to:

This piece will give you a general overview of what selection criteria is and it’s application.

Check out our articles on everything you need to know about selection criteria ,  and on writing  cover letters addressing selection criteria if you want more detailed pieces and examples.

These will give you insights, examples, and great detail on how to choose your best examples.

Why use the STAR method?

The STAR method is the best way to structure your responses to criteria, and in general, to write a cover letter. Your application is meant to give the recruiters insights into your behaviour in the workplace. Therefore, the best way to write a good application is to give them examples of your capability. In other words, you need to tell them about particular times you’ve demonstrated the capabilities needed for the job.

And the best way to give them your examples is to use the STAR method.

Before you start: Read the fine print

The job you’re looking at may have clear or vague directions on how to respond. Generally, there will be information available on the word limit per response, or the page limit in total. You can find this information by looking thoroughly through the candidate information pack or equivalent. If it’s not there, you can contact the officer listed on the job ad.

For example,  for f ederal government jobs , it is a common requirement to submit a  one- or two-page summary, or 600 word pitch . This is meant to address not only address any present selection criteria, but your skills, attributes, qualifications, and general capability to do the role. So, they are asking for a selection criteria that is more like a covering letter, with the responses weaved in. You can find out ore about that  here .

Things to look for are:

• Formatting requirements (margins, font, font size)
• Should documents be in the one file, or separate files
• If the responses will be uploaded online separately
• How many referees are required

In the absence of clear directions, use STAR responses and use your judgement.

Planning your responses using STAR

Look at the capabilities. Are they asking about your ability to manage projects? If so, think of a time you’ve successfully managed a project. This will be your example.

And it needs to be specific – you cannot just say “I regularly manage projects.” Think of a real doozy where you had to work really hard, and then use the STAR method to talk them through that experience.

Have a look at all the criteria, and come up with at least one example for each.

Using the STAR method

After you have identified good examples for each criteria, it is time to get writing. The STAR method is the universally agreed-upon method for responding to selection criteria and for writing cover letters. The four elements of a good STAR response are:

S – Situation

Explain the situation you were in. This should take up about  10 per cent  of your response.

“I managed a range of different projects i n my role as Senior Officer with XYZ Incorporated . This included projects in IT, business improvement, and policy implementation.”

T – Task

Explain the specific task you undertook in this situation. This should also take up only  10 per cen t  of your response.

“As a particular example, I managed the implementation of a new customer relationship management system.”

A – Action

Detail the approach you took to the task. This is where you really have the opportunity to get creative and demonstrate your expertise. Below you will see that we have detailed the candidates project. However, we have not focussed solely on their skills in project management. It also shows related skills like time management, written communication, and stakeholder engagement. 

This action part of your response should take up about  60 per cent of your word count.

“ I conducted independent research and analysed organisational requirements to identify appropriate solutions. I developed a business case for senior management which compared options and prices to minimum specifications requirements. This included a recommendation to implement ABC Solution, which was agreed to by the board. I then developed detailed project documentation in consultation with the client relationship management team. In these documents, I established and negotiated deadlines, milestones, budgets, and key dependencies. This allowed me to closely manage the project outcomes. From there, I worked with the vendor to design the customised user interface and modules of the system, and worked with senior managers to test the performance of the system. This ensured that the system met specifications before roll out. Once the system was designed, I developed and delivered a suite of training. I also created technical documentation and standard operating procedures to further support the implementation.”

R – Result

What was the result of your action? What were the outcomes your achieved, and how were things improved by your actions? This should take up about  20 per cent of your response.

“As a result, the system was successfully implemented, met organisational requirements, and staff were appropriately trained in it’s use. Additionally, the project was delivered on time and under  because of my careful planning .”

Pieced together, this response would be satisfactory response to a project management capability.

Word processing software has become more and more user friendly. It’s also a lot more flexible with it’s designs. Therefore, there is little excuse to not have a beautifully presented document. There are a number of templates you can use in Word itself, or you can find inspiration online.

Edit, review, repeat

This step is simple. Review what you’ve written. Reading out loud what you have written will help you detect issues.

It’s also always best to get a second set of eyes on your application. So, ask someone you know to have a look over it.

Carefully follow their directions for submission and recheck all information. Make sure that all names, phone numbers and contact details are correct.

By this point, you should be totally finished with your submission. However, it never hurts to give them a call and ask for more information if you need it. This can be a valuable tool, as the Contact Officer may give you tips and tricks for your submission that get you ahead of the other applicants.

We hope this has given you the boost of confidence you need to get a start on your selection criteria and cover letters. If you need more help, fill out our  form for a personalised quote .

You Might Also Like

El1 selection criteria and pitch writing, how to write selection criteria – everything you need to know, el2 selection criteria and pitch writing, this post has 2 comments.

Pingback: Selection Criteria Examples - The Resume Writers

Pingback: EL2 Selection Criteria - The Resume Writers

Comments are closed.

Get a Quote

Book a 15 minute call/Teams meeting

The Resume Writers acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands on which our business operates. We pay our respects to ancestors and Elders, past and present.

• Book a Discovery Call
• Resume Writing
• Government Selection Criteria
• Get In Contact
• How It Works
• Terms, Conditions and Privacy Policy
• 1300 272 477
• 5/18 Elizabeth Street Hobart TAS 7000
• 903/50 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000
• Level 8, 805/220 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
• 9/204 Alice St, Brisbane QLD 4000
• 202/37 Barrack St, Perth WA 6000
• 3/55 Gawler Place, Adelaide SA 5000
• [email protected]
• Monday - Friday 9AM - 5PM

© All rights reserved

Discover more from The Resume Writers

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• AED AFN ALL AMD ANG AUD AWG AZN BAM BBD BDT BGN BIF BND BOB BSD BWP BZD CAD CDF CHF CNY CRC CVE CZK DJF DKK DOP DZD EGP ETB EUR FJD FKP GBP GMD GNF GTQ GYD HKD HNL HUF IDR ILS INR ISK JMD JPY KES KGS KHR KMF KRW KYD KZT LAK LBP LKR MAD MDL MKD MMK MNT MOP MUR MVR MWK MYR NGN NIO NPR NZD PEN PGK PHP PKR PLN PYG QAR RON RSD RWF SAR SBD SEK SGD SHP SLL STD THB TJS TOP TTD TWD TZS UAH UGX USD UYU UZS VND VUV WST XAF XCD XOF XPF YER
• 1300 217 374

Resume and Selection Criteria Writers Give Away Free Tips

You go back to the job advertisement to upload your resume. But wait!

“Applicants must submit a cover letter and address the selection criteria in the job description,” you shockingly read.

Are you now fuming the internet to find quick hacks on how to write a cover letter and respond to selection criteria ? Have you spent hours finding the best example of a personal statement? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the selection criteria responses you’ve read online and thinking of just letting the opportunity to secure your dream job pass?

Well then, your search stops right here!

The Perfect Resume team is here to guide you and make your job application stand out! We will help you polish your application by providing you with a FREE cover letter and selection criteria samples. Read on and be on your way to landing the job of your dreams!

Cover Letter Dread: The Basics and Effortless Ways to Create One in 2022 — With Examples

A cover letter is a one-page document that aims to express your intention of securing the spot. Like a golden ticket, your cover letter is a paper that introduces you to a potential employer, aside from your resume or CV. Know to some as a motivation letter , your cover letter is submitted to explain and persuade your readers as to why you are the best candidate for the job.

Regrettably, many clients choose to pour all their efforts into perfecting their resumes only. But did you know that your cover letter can be the difference between championing your job search and being sent to the “NO” pile without any hesitation?

“How come,” you ask.

This brief document is a chance for you to showcase your communication skills, experiences, and how you can meet the potential employer’s business needs and exceed expectations. Furthermore, according to SEEK , recruiters and hiring managers still claim to read cover letters to further extract information about applicants, such as their relevant skills and tangible achievement. Zety has shared information that 45% of employers or hiring decision-makers say they expect to receive cover letters. On the other hand,  22% expect letters of interest to be addressed to the Hiring Manager.  Thus, it is always a perfect idea to tailor your cover letter to each job application!

Speaking of tailoring or personalising your job search tool, Professional Resume Writers and Career Experts from The Perfect Resume put together a guide on what to include and leave out of your cover letter, including the dos and don’ts when crafting one.

Cover Letter Tip # 1:  Never ever forget the must-have sections, namely:

• Contact Section. Up above in your heading section is where your contact information should be ideally placed, such as your mobile number. Why? It is the first thing a recruiter or hiring manager must-see. Without these details, it would be unlikely that you will even hear a callback or stand out from all the other applicants. Therefore, do not ever ditch this part. Additionally, make sure that your contact details are up to date and are reachable.
• Company name, date, appropriate salutation, and the name of the job you're going for. Getting this part right is very crucial. This will reveal if you dedicated enough time to research the company and the person who shall receive your cover letter. As the old saying goes, “well begun is half done.” Addressing the contact person by his or her name will provide a personalised touch and good impression to give you brownie points for an interview shortlist. However, if the information is ungraspable choose a suitable salutation.
• Attention-grabbing unique selling proposition. This is the best spot to showcase your personality and company values. If you are a person who loves making another laugh, start off with some humour. If you think that the organisation’s cause resonates with you, then it is best to acknowledge it at the beginning of your cover letter. Before you write your introduction, you must identify why do you want to apply for that specific job and why should the employer choose you over the other candidates. Doing this can help you craft a perfect cover letter introduction.
• Experiences, education, key skills, and achievements. As soon as you have your readers hooked, it is now time to shine by highlighting your standout qualities. Due to the limited time hiring managers hold within the recruitment process, it is best to keep it short but sweet! They do not have time for fluff. Hence why they use applicant tracking systems to sort candidates from being a good fit to not so suitable. So, be sure to address the employer’s wants and needs whilst incorporating your applicable past experiences, skills, and wins – both big and small!

Cover Letter Tip # 2:  Familiarise yourself with mistakes to dodge, such as:

• Never start with “I am writing to apply for the XYZ position at XYZ.” Keep in mind that your cover letter is meant to make you stand out. Aside from being superfluous, beginning your cover letter with this phrase will only give the impression that you are boring or not that interested in the job. Do your research and use your cover letter as a way of communicating how you have what it takes to be the company’s next team member.
• Avoid repeating all the information on your resume . A resume is intended to state facts about your career, such as your previous roles, skills, and achievements. On the other hand, your cover letter is meant to explain how you meet the job requirements. It is an avenue for you to introduce yourself in a creative way and display your communication skills. Therefore, it is unnecessary to copy and paste the information from your resume onto your cover letter. You need to tell an interesting story.
• Eliminate the typos. According to research conducted by CareerBuilder, a trusted human capital solutions company, over 70% of hiring managers admitted that they would reject a cover letter bearing grammatical or typographical errors without a doubt. The same also goes for resumes. Therefore, make sure to proofread your document. It is also advisable to use a free online writing assistant or error-checker. Moreover, try having a trusted colleague review your cover letter. Getting a pair of fresh eyes can help catch language oversights in your relevant experience and enhance the flow of your letter of introduction without paying anything.
• Do not forget the evidence of your knowledge. It is easy to claim that you are a ‘team player’ or have all the right values for the job. However, you are not the first candidate to mention it. Often, cover letters are filled with content that applicants merely copied, such as the role title and expertise listed on the job advertisement without backing them up. Hiring managers go for a good match when they are finding candidates for jobs, someone who can communicate their relevant work experience, how they have demonstrated the required skills in their past and are a great match between the hard and soft transferable skills. In addition to that, you can write your selection criteria or professional resume in a more creative way by sprinkling in the results or achievements. Hiring managers love reading engaging resumes, especially when candidates take the time to write in a results-driven manner.
• Stay away from mentioning your expected salary. Unless you are instructed to do so, it is best to do not to mention to the recruiter or company representative how much you are expecting to receive. Indeed, good compensation in any industry is a form of motivation. However, you want to present yourself to your potential employer as a professional eager to contribute to the future of the company, not someone who is excited to just get paid.

Cover Letter Tip # 3:  Create a winning and sincere final statement and call to action.

Your ending paragraph should be as captivating as your introduction. It is also great to include a call of action or a way of encouraging potential employers to contact you for further discussions on how you can be a great asset to the company. Here, you can display your enthusiasm and confidence. Lastly, if you are wondering how to end your cover letter, sign off with kind regards or yours sincerely.

Writing a Cover Letter in Australia Doesn’t Have to Be Tough

We know cover letter writing can be hard, but it doesn't have to be! If you're struggling with trying not to sound desperate or keeping your document easy to read, then fear not! Below, there are some cover letter examples for managerial and graduate roles. On the other hand, if you would like your Professional Writer from The Perfect Resume to craft a unique cover letter that suits your needs, email us at [email protected]  or visit www.theperfectresume.com.au .

Finance Manager Cover Letter Example

Graduate program cover letter template, selection criteria: what is it and how do i address it in my cover letter.

The key selection criteria demonstrate how well suited you are for your dream job. Your responses are what potential employers shall use to shortlist you for a job. Unlike a cover letter, a selection criteria response is a direct, concise, and focused explanation to a situational question, for example, ‘demonstrate a time when you had to meet tight deadlines' or ‘explain a situation when you had to be flexible,’ You may address this job requirement in your cover letter. How? Through an applicant tracking systems formula:

Example Statement + Example Situation + How you overcame the challenge/problem = Criteria Response Evidence

How do you write the selection criteria for a job application.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to answer selection criteria questions correctly depends on the specific question being asked and the job you are applying for. However, there are a few general tips that can help you to answer selection criteria questions effectively:

• Read the question carefully and make sure you understand what is being asked of you.  Selection criteria can vary from employer to employer, so it’s important to read through the job ad thoroughly and understand what is required before you start writing your application. Follow the instructions: make sure you read and understand the selection criteria before starting to write your response.
• Outline how your skills, experience and qualifications match up with what is being asked for in the question.  Do not be afraid of referring to previous roles. Employers want someone who can hit the ground running. Therefore, make sure that if you have experience in a similar role and the required qualifications and skills for the position, you want your next employer to know.
• Use specific examples to back up your claims and show that you have what it takes to do the job.  A professional resume template will help to strengthen your argument and show that you have what it takes to do the particular job. Numbers and statistics can help add credibility to a document by providing concrete evidence to support a claim. When used effectively, they can help back up an argument with factual information. In addition, they can help to persuade your readers – and make them say, “this is the one!” The best way to use numbers in a selection criteria response is to back up general claims with specific examples. For example, rather than writing, “ I am reliable ,” you could write, “ In the past year, I have worked consistently 5 days per week and have had ZERO unaccounted days off or arrived late on any occasions .” Who would you employ if you could choose between the “I am reliable” guy or someone who has had ZERO unaccounted days off?
• Check for spelling and grammar mistakes before submitting your application.  Nothing looks worse than a sloppy job application! Proofreading is so important for job seekers because it is the first impression that you make on a potential employer. If there are spelling and grammar mistakes in your application, it signals to the employer that you are not detail-oriented and that you may not be taking the job application seriously. It also shows that you may not be capable of doing the specific job if you cannot even take the time to proofread your application. By proofreading your job application, you can ensure that your application looks polished and professional.

Selection Criteria Response Example

How can the perfect resume team help.

To be successful in your job search, you need to have a compelling cover letter and give it your best shot as you try to address selection criteria. Your cover letter is the first thing that hiring managers will read, and it can help make or break an application. A well-crafted cover letter, coupled with key selection criteria responses should tell the hiring manager why they MUST have you on their team. However, if you still don't know where to start, contact The Perfect Resume today!

The Perfect Resume is here to help you get ahead in your career by providing cover letters and selection criteria responses. We offer professional writing services to make sure your job search tools are perfect before submitting them. Our team of writers is experts in crafting interview-winning documents to impress any hiring manager or recruiter. We know what employers want to see on paper and how they want their candidates presented, so let us do all the hard work.

Please send us an email at   [email protected]   with your resume, cover letter, and link to your dream job. We will give you tips on making prospective employers hire YOU over ALL OTHER CANDIDATES – without paying a penny! 

Likewise, if you find this article helpful, don't forget to share and pass the kindness along to your fellow job seeker!

Recommended reading suggestions  

• Why calling the recruiter before you apply for a job helps you land an interview?
• Here’s everything candidates need to know about an ATS
• Job Search Tips: How long do you wait for an interview call?
• Address selection criteria examples
• Create a winning resume format 2024

Would You Like a Professional Resume Writer or Career Coach to Review Your Resume or CV?

Enter your details below. we will review what you have, provide feedback & recommend the services that suit your needs.

Ready to Win Your Dream Job? Dismiss

• Mon-Fri 8.30am 6.00pm Sat & Sun Email support only.
• 1300 761 626

Sign up for Newsletter

Signup for our newsletter to get notified about sales and new products. Add any text here or remove it.

• Search for:

No products in the cart.

Return to shop

• Resume Writing Packages
• Selection Criteria Writing Packages
• Government Application Writing Packages
• LinkedIn Profile Optimisation Packages
• Entry Level & Graduate Resume Packages
• Mid-Career Resume
• Management Resume
• Executive Resume
• Cover Letters
• LinkedIn Services
• Career Counselling
• Selection Criteria Writing
• Testimonials
• Our Process
• Free LinkedIn Banners
• How To Write An Amazing Expression Of Interest Letter
• Government Application

Addressing Key Selection Criteria Templates and Examples 2023

• Resume Template Download
• How to Find a New Job
• Interview Guide
• Resignation Letter Download
• Resume Questionnaire

Resumes To You Blog

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Guide to Key Selection Criteria Writing (with Free Selection Criteria Examples) 2023

Selection Criteria Writing Examples and Templates

Understanding how to address key selection criteria writing , suitability statements, response letters, and targeted questions by highlighting your skills, attributes, knowledge, and qualifications can make the difference between successfully securing a role and having to continue with your job search.

Employers, local councils, Australian public service, and government departments will define criteria that seem essential for satisfying the job requirements. Often it can be found in the position description or capability framework for the role you’re applying for.

You will need to describe and demonstrate how you satisfy the selection criteria writing when submitting your response to the application in a separate document, online application portal, or within your cover letter.

What exactly is selection criteria writing or free selection criteria examples?

When applying for a role that requires you to address selection criteria, you are required to write a statement against each statement. It needs to outline how your current skills, attributes, knowledge, or qualifications satisfy these criteria. Included in the job listing will be the application requirements, which you must adhere to in regards to word limits, page limits, and character counts.

Addressing and submitting selection criteria in the application process helps the selection panel assess all applicants fairly and consistently.

What are the benefits of addressing selection criteria writing for a role ( apart from resume writing services )? 

Referring to the selection criteria gives you a greater understanding of what the job entails and the types of duties and tasks you may perform. It’s also an opportunity to self-assess your own skills, capabilities, and experience against the role requirements to see if it’s you’re capable of being successful in the role or if you need further development, education, or experience before submitting an application.

What are some free examples or templates of selection criteria writing?

Referring to the selection criteria is not as simple as listing a series of skills you’re competent in. You’ll need to include your work experience, abilities, your awareness, and refer to your hard and soft skills. It can also refer to qualifications you have acquired as many professional roles require you to hold a diploma or degree in specific fields.

Selection criteria writing can generally be broken down into four specific categories—each need to be addressed separately with clear examples of how you satisfy it.

Skills and Abilities

You’ll generally always find this category in job ads. The purpose of this criterion is to provide examples or demonstrate when you’ve used a particular skill or ability. Examples can include:

• Customer service skills
• Verbal communication with multiple audiences
• Written communication ability

Rather than learn about specific examples relating to your previous experience, employers are more interested in your entire range. This criterion allows you to summarise your history and provide them with details on what you’ve accomplished, where you excelled, and what you learned. Examples might include:

• Your use of technology in previous roles
• How you ascended to a managerial position
• The various industries you have been a part of

Understanding of Awareness

Employers need to gauge your understanding of a subject or issue. It helps provide them with a sense of your knowledge in the field and how much training or time they would need to commit to bringing you up to speed. Some examples can be:

• Is your understanding developed through educational theory?
• Did you acquire this knowledge from on-the-job experience?
• If you don’t have a specific example, how did you address the selection criteria?

Qualifications

It might seem like this criterion would be the simplest one to address, but employers are interested in more than just the name of the qualification on the certificate. They’ll want to know what subjects you learned and the areas you excelled in. Examples of credentials that may be required include:

• Diploma in Leadership
• Certificate IV in Accounting
• Diploma of Project Management

Template for Selection Criteria & How to Write & Address Key Selection Criteria

The key selection criteria are dependent on the type of job you’re applying for. You will get asked a series of questions based on your experience as a way to find out what makes you the right person for the role. That’s why it’s imperative that you include the correct information in a clear and concise manner.

When responding to the questions, you need to stay focused and keep your answers clear and to the point. Waffling and jumping around in your answers will only cause confusion to the selection panel. It’s also about quality over quantity, so you keep your answers from half a page to a page unless the application requirements specify differently.

It’s also critical to ensure your answers are relevant to the question being asked. Only list the skills and experiences that are applicable to the specific criteria. You should also use examples of past scenarios and how it’s appropriate to the role you’re applying for. If you don’t have previous work experience, then you should use other life examples or what you learned whilst in university.

Addressing selection criteria shouldn’t be a daunting experience. Use these five simple steps to answer key selection criteria effectively:

• Step One:  Understand the question or point and assess whether you meet all the requirements and can provide examples
• Step Two:  Nail the opening statement
• Step Three:  Brainstorm ideas for each selection criterion
• Step Four:  Dive deeper into detail and support your statements with ‘the how’
• Step Five:  Check off your selection criteria writing checklist

Step One:   Understand the question or point and assess whether you meet all the requirements and can provide examples

Before you start your resume or have it professionally written and start writing your cover letter, you need to analyse the key selection criteria and assess whether you can speak to it as well as provide examples to demonstrate how to meet them.

Sometimes it can look a little complicated on paper. So it’s best to start by underlining the keywords.  From there, you can break it down into simpler, meaningful components.  Take the time to think about what the employer is looking for, and then respond to that.

For example, a job description might include the following key selection criteria:

• Provide key points, information, and opinions in a clear and concise manner verbally
• Able to work with others to solve interpersonal conflicts positively
• Ability to work in both informal and formal settings individually and in teams

In this instance, the key selection criteria would be:

• Ability to communicate verbally
• Work with others to solve problems
• Able to work unsupervised and in teams

Step Two:   Nail the opening statement

Your opening statement is your opportunity to grab the attention of the reader or the selection criteria. It can determine if they continue to listen or read the rest of your statement or make up their mind on whether you’re right for the role.

The key is to keep it short. You should be able to clearly explain in one sentence how you address this criterion by incorporating the key points. 

For example, a good example would be:

“I possess strong verbal communication skills, which I developed during my time as a Team Leader.”

Step Three: Brainstorm ideas for each selection criterion

Now that you’re clear on the requirements, it’s time to pull together relevant examples of your work experience to demonstrate how you meet it. 

Start by listing your job title and where you worked. Next, explain how this role fulfils the key selection criteria.

Some examples for a leadership position might include:

• Assistant Team Leader at X – coached and developed staff by providing clear verbal advice.
• Team Leader at Y – first leadership position, provided verbal updates to peers, and solved problems with teammates to meet performance objectives.
• Team Leader at Z – worked unsupervised due to the area manager being based interstate, assisted other team members located locally with issues they faced.

Step Four:   Dive deeper into detail and support your statements with ‘the how’

In this step, you’re going to want to go into the specifics around how you meet the key selection criteria. While you might feel comfortable talking about your previous experiences, you need to be able to structure it in a way that employers can understand the key points you’re trying to make. It’s why the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method is one of the most successful ways to support your claims.

One example of using the STAR method is:

• Situation – “In my role as an assistant Team Leader at X”
• Task – “I was required to coach and develop staff by providing clear verbal advice”
• Action – “I gave staff clear direction on what areas to focus on and what strengths they possessed”
• Result – “It helped improve customer experiences and the staff’s confidence to perform their role to the best of their ability” 

Step Five: Check off your selection criteria checklist

Once you’ve finished all of your key selection criteria, it’s worth double-checking a few things to ensure that you’ve covered everything. Using this checklist can give you the confidence to hit the submit button when the time comes.

Have You Addressed All Aspects of the Selection Criteria?

As you read over your responses, make sure that you’re using the same wording that’s found in the position description. It will help employers assess you consistently with other applicants. It also helps if it correlates with the verbiage used in the advertisement.

Make sure you have met all of the requirements, including the word count. If the recruiter or employer has requested examples, then put them in bullet point form, so it’s easier to read.

Are Your Examples Relevant?

Double-check that your answers are simple, concise, and specific. You also want to make sure that it’s relevant to the point that you’re trying to make.

Don’t write an essay about your previous experience if it doesn’t relate to the specific criteria or the position. 

Did You Use the Right Words?

The wording you use should reflect the job ad. Most positions can receive hundreds of applications, which means your submission needs to stand out, and it will if you use phrasing that’s relevant to the role.

Steer clear of passive words and ambiguous terms. Be clear with your writing and land the points you’re trying to make.

Did You Get Someone Else to Proofread Your Response?

Never underestimate the power of a fresh set of eyes. While you might read over your work dozens of times, eventually you’ll scan over mistakes. Get a friend or family member to take a look and see if they notice any issues or have advice on how to approach your response.

Provide them with the job ad as well so that they know what to compare it against. Taking the extra time to complete this step will provide you with the assurance that everything you’re submitting is accurate.

The STAR Selection Criteria Method Explained

The STAR method is one of the most popular ways of addressing selection criteria in a written statement. It helps clearly demonstrate why you’re the right person for the role.  

Rather than just listing the skills you possess; you can provide examples of situations you’ve been in and the strategies and skillsets you implemented to achieve an outcome.  This is what the STAR method does. It provides employers with the confidence that you’re capable of the role you’re applying for.

STAR stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result, and here’s how each step can help you speak to the key selection criteria.

Firstly, you’ll describe a situation you were faced with.

Choose the most appropriate situation from a current or previous workplace, education, or personal experience.  If you can, select a scenario that demonstrates the significance of your knowledge and skill. Choose something interesting, and if you can, meets more than one of the selection criteria or key capabilities that the role description listed.  Be concise in your summary; give just enough information to provide context to the Task, Action, and Result.

Next, you’ll describe the task that you had to complete.

What were your responsibilities and assignments for the situation?  Again, be concise. Only provide the necessary information to provide the potential employer with context for the actions that you took.

Now describe the actions that took place to complete the task.

Here’s where you can start to provide more detailed information.  How did you approach the task, and what skills were required?  This is your chance to demonstrate your experience, logic, reasoning processes, and ability to take necessary action.  

Make every word count, and don’t be afraid to highlight how you meet the criteria in detail.  Remove the guesswork for the potential employer because this is the part of the story that they are most interested in.

Finally, what was the result of your action?

This step is almost as important as the action. It tells the employer whether you were able to bring about a positive outcome.  Include details on what you accomplished, any benefits that you delivered, what you learnt from the situation, and the result.  

There’s no need to exaggerate, but you also don’t want to be modest.  The employer wants to know what you can bring to their company, so let them see the benefit you will be to the team.

If you can’t think of a situation that addresses the selection criteria that did have a good outcome, then acknowledge how you could have approached it differently or what you took away from the experience that you could implement next time.  Everyone makes mistakes. Demonstrate to the employer that you learn from them and are in a better position to handle such a situation if you are ever faced with it again.

Free Selection Criteria Template Example Answers

Sometimes the best way to learn how to address key selection criteria is by reading the right way to do it. It allows you to see the STAR method in action and what recruiters are looking for when they’re scanning through multiple applications. These examples may help inspire you to write an amazing response utilising your own skills and experience.

Demonstrated success in delivering high-level support services to Executive staff in a high demand environment.

The keywords in this example are delivering high-level support and the ability to work in a high demand environment. The employer is looking for specific examples as per the opening statement of demonstrated success.

I have over fifteen years of experience providing executive support and assistance in busy environments within the mental health, aged care, family services, and education, commercial and religious sectors. In all of my roles, I have been acknowledged for providing outstanding support as well as improving processes and procedures to increase office efficiency. 

In my current role, I am the Executive Assistant to the Executive Director of the State Insurance Regulatory Authority. I am responsible for diary and travel management (including resolving clashes and negotiating arrangements), managing meeting logistics, drafting and sending correspondence, answering emails, responding to telephone enquiries, creating documents and presentations, and managing expenses. 

In 2016, I was the Executive Assistant at Thomas Holt, reporting to the CEO. I provided diary and email management prepared Board papers and manages meeting logistics. I have also been the Executive Assistant, reporting to the Director, for the Safeguarding and Ministerial Office for the Archdiocese of Sydney and the Executive Support Officer, reporting to the Chairman for the Catholic Social Services NSW/ACT Branch. In these roles, I demonstrated success by:

• Developing induction programs and delivering them to new Branch CEOs
• Creating the operational plan for the NSW/ACT Branch linking to the broader Strategic Plan of the organisation
• Producing member surveys and reported the findings to the Board and Chairman
• Establishing meeting systems and processes, including evaluating the effectiveness of current structures
• Implemented paper and electronic filing systems
• Five years of experience supporting Boards within the not-for-profit sector

I also have two years of experience in short term contract roles in organisations of varying size and complexity, providing executive support in busy commercial and government organisations. This included delivering services to the Chief Information Officer at Qantas, a Leighton Contractors Project Director, the Chief Information Officer for Baulderstone Hornibrook, and the General Manager of Human Resources in the Department of Education and Training. In these roles, I managed diaries, travel, expenses, filing systems, reports, presentations, meetings, events, and document creation.

I liaised with external stakeholders holding high office, such as the Bishops of the NSW/ACT Catholic Church, the Catholic Education Commission via Board and Committee’s, NSW Health seeking funding approvals, NSW Law Society to collaborate on a website project.

Demonstrated experience in project management.

The employer is interested in specific examples of projects you’ve worked on. It’s ideal to include initiatives you’ve worked on and the results of it. Was it successful? Did it fail? Why did it fail? What could have been done differently? This is all relevant to the employer as it demonstrates experience.

Selection Criteria VS Cover Letters

Selection criteria vs. cover letters – there is a difference.

For potential candidates that are sourcing a role in one of the government sectors, Selection Criteria is something you may need to answer. Depending on how well you address each of these could depend on whether you gain an interview spot so it is critical that you get this right.

Most people often don’t realise there is a HUGE difference between a response to Selection Criteria and a Cover Letter.

What is a Selection Criteria response?

•  Is no more than 2 pages, addressing Key Responsibilities  (or Key Selection Criteria)  (4-8 questions)
• Is answering these questions using the STAR method (which is Situation, Task, Action, Result)
• You are required to respond to each question about a “time when” you were in a Situation, doing a specific Task where your Action was required, and then the Result. Use one example per question in a paragraph
• Without this (if the advertisement asks for it), you will not proceed to the next round for interview

What is a Cover Letter?

A Cover Letter is an introduction to yourself, to accompany your resume when you apply for a job.

• Is 1 page only
• Talks about you and why would you be suitable for the role
• Doesn’t cover all your skills (as the resume does this) but more so, it covers your personality traits
• You can talk about 1 main skill they require for the role and HOW you can use this in the new role
• Uses passion and juicy words to attract the reader’s attention

Most people find it more difficult to write a selection criteria response than it is to write a cover letter. The good news though: thinking through examples of your work history to use as answers is also great preparation for your interview.

If you have your heart set on a job that has Selection Criteria, but you don’t know where to start, we recommend you seek professional help.

BOOK YOUR FREE 15 MINUTE CAREER CONSULTATION NOW!

Don’t wait for the right opportunity. Create it.

Book in for a free 20-minute career strategy session with one of our consultants, so you can start taking action today!

Kate Langford Career Consulting – An Award-Winning Career Consulting Firm. We believe in helping people find work they love.

HELPFUL LINKS

Blog categories, all rights reserved 2022.

Job Jumpstart

How to address selection criteria.

What are selection criteria?

Selection criteria are the list of the skills, attributes and experience that an employer wants for a specific role. Employers use this information to assess an applicant’s suitability for the job.

Selection criteria can include technical skills (such as previous experience working in the role or specific qualifications or certifications) and personal traits (for example, customer oriented, attention to detail, team player).

The selection criteria for a role are often outlined in the job advertisement. They are usually linked to the employer’s ‘ key words’ . If you are approaching a business directly, you should research the employer (visit their website and social media) to get an understanding of what traits and skills they value in workers.

Formal versus informal selection criteria

Some larger organisations, including Government agencies, ask you to respond to specific formal selection criteria. The employer will usually indicate a word or page limit for each response. You should submit your responses to formal selection criteria as a separate document to the rest of your application.

Some examples of specific selection criteria are:

• demonstrated capacity to communicate effectively
• good organisational and administrative skills
• proven ability to work as part of a team
• well-developed customer service skills

For selection criteria that don’t require a formal response (for example, those outlined in a job ad) your cover letter is a good place to address any criteria.

When responding to selection criteria you need to make the link between what you can do, and have done in the past, and how it relates to the job. List examples of relevant skills, experience and personal qualities that you can use to provide this information.

If you don’t have any actual work experience, use examples from other activities such as school, voluntary work or other extracurricular activities, like sport.

Hints and tips

• Keep your response clear and succinct . Keep your cover letter to about a page in length. For formal selection criteria, always stick to any word or page limits.
• Use relevant examples. Show the employer how you have demonstrated this trait or skill in the past and what the result or outcome was for your employer.
• Be honest and factual. Never lie on your application. Employers will check references so make sure you can back up anything you say in your application.

Check out more resources below

Tailoring your job application.

Tips on tailoring your job application to meet the employer's requirements.

Cover letter quality check

Tips to help you ensure your cover letter is high quality and error-free.

How to write a cover letter

Use this workbook to help you develop a cover letter you can adapt for each job you apply for.

Related articles

What is a cover letter and why do i need one.

Why you must use keywords in your job application

What are employability skills?

Move forward, get ahead.™

• Jun 27, 2023

Demystifying the Difference: Cover Letter vs. Selection Criteria

When it comes to applying for a job or a position, it's essential to understand the various components of the application process..

Two common requirements that often confuse applicants are the cover letter and selection criteria . While both play crucial roles in showcasing your qualifications and suitability for a job, they serve distinct purposes.

In this article, we will explore the key differences between a cover letter and selection criteria , providing clarity and guidance to help you craft compelling application materials.

Cover Letter: Introducing Yourself and Showcasing Your Fit

A cover letter is a personalized letter addressed to the hiring manager or employer, accompanying your resume. Its primary purpose is to introduce yourself, express your interest in the position, and highlight why you are a suitable candidate. Here are some key characteristics of a cover letter:

a. Introduction and Salutation: Start with a formal greeting, addressing the hiring manager by name if possible. Introduce yourself and express your interest in the position.

b. Personalization and Customization: Tailor your cover letter to each specific job application. Research the company and the role to understand their needs and align your skills and experiences accordingly.

c. Concise Overview of Your Background: Summarize your relevant qualifications, experiences, and achievements. Focus on the most compelling aspects that directly relate to the job requirements.

d. Showcasing Fit and Passion: Demonstrate your understanding of the company's values, goals, and challenges. Explain how your skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm make you a strong fit for the role.

e. Closing and Call to Action: Express gratitude for considering your application and include a polite request for an interview or further discussion. Provide your contact information.

Selection Criteria: Addressing Specific Job Requirements

Selection criteria, also known as key selection criteria or KSC, are a set of specific requirements outlined by the employer or hiring organization.

They serve as guidelines for assessing applicants' suitability for the position. Selection criteria are usually presented as a list of skills, qualifications, experiences, or attributes that candidates must address in their application.

Here's what you need to know about selection criteria:

a. Detailed Responses: Each selection criterion requires a detailed response addressing how you meet the specific requirement. Use examples, experiences, and achievements to support your claims.

b. STAR Method: Structure your responses using the Situation, Task, Action, Result (STAR) method. Describe the situation or problem, the task or objective, the actions you took, and the results or outcomes achieved.

c. Clear and Concise Writing: Ensure your responses are well-structured, easy to read, and directly address each criterion. Use specific keywords from the criteria and provide evidence of your skills and experiences.

d. Demonstrating Competencies: Focus on showcasing your relevant competencies, such as teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability. Align your experiences with the desired criteria.

e. Compliance with Instructions: Pay close attention to any specific instructions provided by the employer regarding word limits, formatting, or submission methods. Failure to comply may result in disqualification.

Differentiating Cover Letter and Selection Criteria

The primary distinction between a cover letter and selection criteria lies in their purpose and focus.

A cover letter allows you to introduce yourself, demonstrate your fit for the position, and express your enthusiasm. It provides an opportunity to showcase your overall qualifications and present a persuasive narrative of your candidacy.

On the other hand, selection criteria require you to address specific job requirements outlined by the employer. It demands more detailed and structured responses, highlighting your skills and experiences relevant to each criterion.

Selection criteria help employers assess your suitability based on specific qualifications and competencies.

Understanding the difference between a cover letter and selection criteria is crucial when applying for jobs.

A cover letter serves as your introduction and showcases your overall fit for the position, while selection criteria require detailed responses addressing specific job requirements.

By mastering these two components of the application process, you can present a comprehensive and compelling case for your candidacy, increasing your chances of securing the desired position.

Key differences Between a Cover Letter and Selection Criteria!

Welcome back to learning with CV Editors. Our desire is to get you your dream job through our CV editing services and here we are with some new tips and tricks that will guarantee you the interview call. Key selection criteria are one of the most important documents when applying for a job.

There is no space for you to eliminate the document since any job application without the Key Selection Criteria is directly thrown into the bin. Which ultimately means no selection criteria is equal to no interview. Keep on reading to understand what is this document that is given so much importance.

While the Cover Letter shows your personality through your writing and demonstrates your passion, the Key Selection Criteria shows how you are the best fit for the position. What is Key selection criteria? It is a checklist of responsibilities, skills and experience that the candidate needs to possess in order to fill in the position. The candidate has to tick off the checklist and ensure the recruiter that you surely do fit well in the position and are the best choice. The right way to do so is in the form of short paragraphs of around 50-200 words that narrate a story and justify your claim of being the best candidate. Follow the guidelines below to answer your key selection criteria questions:

Step 1:  Assess the Selection Criteria  

Read the job requirements thoroughly and carefully to locate the important keywords that show what the employer is looking for in the candidate. Evaluate which requirements meet your capabilities and how suitable you are for the position. The basic rule is that you should at least meet 80% of the requirements and have concrete examples to validate them. If not, then there is no use of investing so much time in applying to the job where you know you have minimal chances of getting into given that there is very tough competition out there.

Step 2: Brainstorming

Next, use these requirements as a heading for each paragraph of no more than 200 words that will give a flashing image of how perfectly you fit this requirement. For each statement, look back into your career history and think about an example that demonstrates the particular skill you are being asked for and your abilities. You can refer to your previous workplace, your college assignment or the place you work part-time. Talk about how you learned this skill or implemented your already existing skills that are required for this job. This will assure the recruiter that you are well prepared for the tasks that will be allotted to you in the future in their organization and you are well aware of what is required of you at your new job.

Step 3: Drafting

While narrating your story keep in mind 4 questions that you have to answer.

• What was the S ituation?
• What was your T ask?
• What A ctions did you take regarding them?
• What were the R esults?

This is called the STAR method. In every event that you recount, make sure that describe what was the background of the story, what was your role in that place, how did you deal with the situation, and what was your take about it. And lastly, what was the outcome of your actions.

An example answer for ‘demonstration of quality customer service and management’ for a selection criteria can be:

Situation:  While completing my studies, my 3-month internship experience in Sales Department had a major emphasis on customer service especially dealing with tricky customers who had complaints regarding our online shopping. It was during this time when I encountered a complaint by a customer who was upset regarding the size of the dress, she ordered online. Even though the size chart was mentioned on our website clearly.

Task: Since there was a no return policy it was my responsibility to deal with their complaint and satisfy her, making her feel important and valued, thus keeping intact our brand’s image and our customer service.

Action: I worked with her over a few hours calming her down and presented several alternate options that she could undertake. She was offered to take the same dress in the size ‘Large’. However, since she required an ‘extra-large’ size which was not available at our store. I offered her to choose a different dress from our new collection.

Result: The customer was very happy with our service and found a dress she liked even more than the original one. She gave positive reviews regarding our service on our social media page rating our service 5/5.

The above example uses the STAR model to describe a situation faced at work and how to deal with it using quality customer management skills and the benefit it brought to the organization worked for. Similarly, you are required to write such short statements against each criterion which outlines how your current skills, attributes, knowledge, and qualifications satisfy the criterion. Illustrating the situation through an example backs up your claims well and gives the recruiter an insight into your skills.

Here are some pro tips:

• Use of strong phrases such as Initiated, Implemented, Organized, or Executed helps you describe your role more specifically and presents you as an acting head of the situation. These words put you in the power position thus showcasing your leadership qualities too. 
• Make sure you use short sentences or bullet points in order to make your answers more readable and interesting since the recruiters have to go through hundreds of applications. This saves the employers time and they do not get irritated while reviewing your key selection criteria document.
• Using words like ‘I think’ exhibits a lack of confidence in the candidate. Instead of using such words while telling your skills for example: ‘I think I am a highly organized person’ . Own your skills by removing these unnecessary words and writing ‘ I am a highly organized person. I reorganized my company’s files which improved the efficiency by 30% and made the files easily accessible’. This will help you sell yourself much better as you are not bragging about yourself but you are also justifying your characteristic.
• Go through each of the key selection criteria and list your relevant education, training, and past job experiences. Compare the list to your resume or CV so you do not miss out on any.
• Make sure you use more recent examples from your internships, volunteering works, college projects, and extra-curricular activities. Do not delve into past records of experiences such as high school.
• Quantifying your results such as ‘ my training increased results by 44%’ will have a greater impact on the recruiter. And makes your claims more reliable and easier to measure your action’s impact.

When applying to a job, you are required to respond with three separate documents that are the Key Selection Criteria, Cover Letter, and the Resume.

Also Read: How A Free CV Template Can Ruin Your Chances in Getting Noticed!

Cover letter:

Through your cover letter, you can actually talk to the recruiter and reiterate your value as a candidate making him psyched up to meet you in person. This is a golden opportunity for you to communicate with your employer about your unique selling point. You have to convince them that you possess the skills required for the position, how you will add value to the company and how you will deal with problems the company may face as listed in the job description.

You can also address any concerns here such as the gaps in your employment or why have you been switching quickly from your previous firms. These are the kind of questions that might lead the recruiter to assume that you are a quick switcher and might as well not stay for the long term in their organization. But if that’s not the case for you and you have a genuine reason you can address it here. You can also mention if you are being referred by someone or are in contact with any of the current employees of the company. This will create a connection and the recruiter can take feedback from them about you. Other than that, you can talk about potential relocation if you are up for it, mentioning it here is a good idea than waiting for the interview.

Cover Letter VS Key Selection Criteria:

Length: Selection Criteria are statements that you have to answer based on the STAR model for each criterion mentioned. It may vary from six to twelve. While the Cover Letter is supposed to be a one-paged letter addressed directly to the recruiter.

Purpose: While Cover Letter is a letter tailored differently for each job, it talks about why you think you are the best candidate for the job and why the recruiter should consider you. You talk about how you will benefit the company with your skills and experience. The selection criteria are the answer to the recruiter’s questions. He/she mentions the important qualities he/she is looking for in the candidate and you have to prove to him/her that you possess these skills well through solid past records.

You can send the Key Selection Criteria as a separate document or fit in your responses in the body of your Cover Letter in several paragraphs listing the most important ones at the top. Either way is alright, just make sure not to skip this important document, or else you will lose your chance of getting to the interview no matter how good your Resume is since the employers check at the Key Selection Criteria before even going towards the Resume.

DISCLAIMER: All of the contents contained in this article are the property of CV Editors. Except with the prior written permission of CV Editors, no person may duplicate or reproduce through whatever means the contents contained in this article.