Applying for a local authority vacancy can be quite a different experience to applying for a private or charity sector role. As part of LOTI’s skills and talent work, we are writing some blogs to help potential candidates feel confident about applying to work in local government. 

1 – Don’t worry about showing relevant experience.

The selection panel will be looking for a great fit, so you really need to demonstrate that you are one – you can’t just leave it to the selection panel to figure it out.

Make it clear how your skills and experience align with the job description and person specification. Don’t be discouraged if you lack direct public sector experience; forward-thinking councils welcome candidates from the private sector who bring fresh perspectives. Highlight transferable skills from your past jobs, and even from your personal life, to show you are a great fit for the role.

2 – Ignore the application instructions.

Be aware that each local authority’s application process will be slightly different, so it’s really important to read all the instructions carefully and complete every section. Some may require a CV and cover letter, while others may ask you to complete a full application form or answer specific questions. 

The closing date and time is not just a guide! Late applications are typically not accepted.

3 – Let generative AI do all of the hard work for you.

AI-generated content is often easy for hiring managers to spot. The most powerful parts of your application are unique to you. To show you’re an authentic candidate, use your own words and experiences instead of copying and pasting.

4 – Be really vague.

Be concise but informative in your cover letter or supporting statement. Highlight your skills in a compelling way instead of just repeating your CV. A cover letter should be a powerful, one-page document, typically three to five short paragraphs and no more than 500 words.

5 – Don’t tailor your application to the role.

To ensure that the selection panel can see that you are genuinely interested in the role, make sure that you tailor it to the specific role and organisation. Your supporting statement should address all the essential criteria in the person specification. Don’t use a generic statement that mentions working for a “company” or “business” when applying to a local authority.

6 – Don’t demonstrate your value.

It is essential that you show how you meet each of the criteria in the person specification. You must meet all the essential criteria to be considered for an interview. Provide clear examples that show you have the necessary skills and knowledge, using the STAR approach (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to give detailed responses.

7 – Make sure your application is really long.

A strong CV should ideally be a maximum of two pages. Your cover letter or supporting statement should be powerful and concise, keeping it to three to five short paragraphs and under 500 words.

8 – Don’t proofread your statement.

Review and proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ask a friend or colleague to read it as well, as a second pair of eyes can help catch mistakes and ensure your application makes sense.

9 – Don’t bother to save as you go.

If you are using an online application system, be sure to save your progress regularly to avoid losing your work. Most online systems won’t save your work automatically.

10 – Don’t sign up for the weekly job alerts on the LOTI website…

Here at LOTI, we curate a free jobs board for all the latest tech, digital and data roles in London local government. If you sign up for the job alerts, you will get a weekly email with the latest roles straight into your inbox.

As you’ve seen, applying for a local authority role can be slightly different to other sectors, but a well-crafted application can make all the difference. With this advice, we hope you can approach the process with confidence, knowing you’re showcasing the very best of what you have to offer. Good luck!

Got a question that isn’t captured here? Get in touch with us at contact@loti.london, and subscribe to our newsletter to keep up with our upcoming skills and talent top tip blogs!