Applying for a local authority vacancy can be a different experience compared to a private sector role. While many private organisations use a flexible CV and cover letter approach, local authorities often require a detailed application form focused on showing how you meet specific criteria. This strict structure ensures a consistent and fair process for everyone.

1. The application: a test of precision

The selection panel will meticulously compare the information you provide against the job description and person specification. You must show how your experience and abilities align with what is needed.

• Focus on essential criteria: you must evidence how you meet the criteria. Don’t feel restricted to just your existing or most recent job; consider evidence from volunteering, your home life, or previous roles outside your main career history.
• Prioritise the lead criteria: if the job specification indicates a primary focus (e.g., listing one area first or giving it a higher weighting), ensure your evidence in that area is the strongest, as selection panels often focus on the lead criteria.
• Show, don’t just tell: instead of simply claiming you meet a criterion, you must provide clear examples that show you have the necessary skills and knowledge. Use the STAR approach (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to give detailed, evidence-based responses.
• Emphasise transferable skills: don’t feel 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, volunteering, or personal projects.
• Tackling overly detailed criteria: if a role profile lists an unusually high number of criteria, look for opportunities to group related criteria together and address them in a single, powerful, evidence-based example. The focus should always be on demonstrating value and impact rather than trying to tick every single box individually.
• Seek external feedback for clarity: when proofreading, ask someone who is not close to your work to read your application. They can give a critical eye and spot assumptions you might be making about the hiring manager’s knowledge.

Final Checks for Submission

Before you hit ‘submit’, nail these final checks:

• Read the Rules: each authority’s process will differ (CV, application form, questions, etc) – so read all instructions and complete every section carefully.
• Don’t be late: the closing date and time are strict; late applications are typically not accepted.
• Proofreading is critical: check and double-check for any spelling, grammatical errors, or formatting inconsistencies. Try reading it aloud to spot errors your eyes might miss.
• Save as you go: if you are using an online application system, make sure you save your progress regularly, as most won’t save your work automatically.

2. The selection stage: shortlisting

Once the deadline closes, your application will be carefully reviewed.

• The review: the selection panel checks how you’ve demonstrated that you meet all the essential criteria outlined in the person specification.
• The shortlist: only candidates who clearly show they meet the specified criteria will be shortlisted.

3. Interviews, assessments, and the finish line

If shortlisted, the next stages will give you a chance to prove your worth in person:

• Potential assessments: in some cases, you might be asked to complete a test or other form of assessment before or as well as a formal interview.
• Use STAR in person: during the interview, you should continue to use the STAR approach (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to give detailed responses and prove your skills with specific, real-life evidence.
• Post-offer vetting: If you are appointed, you will likely need to provide references, complete a medical form, and undergo checks for your right to work and proof of ID. Some roles may also require additional vetting, such as Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.

Applying for a local authority role requires a strong focus on evidencing that you meet the criteria – a well-crafted application can make all the difference. Good luck!

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