Crafting the perfect 250-word statement for Civil Service exams can often be the most daunting part of the application process.
Many candidates find themselves stumped, wondering how to concisely and effectively convey their suitability for the role.
However, with a solid understanding of the required behaviours and a structured approach, this challenge can turn into a significant advantage.
One of the key behaviours assessed at the Administrative Officer (AO) level is Seeing the Big Picture. Let's delve into what this behaviour entails and how to construct a compelling statement that showcases your capability in this area.
Related Article: 5 Seeing the Big Picture Example Statements
What "Seeing the Big Picture" Means at AO Level
At the AO level, Seeing the Big Picture involves understanding how your work fits into and supports the wider objectives of your department and the government as a whole. This means being aware of the broader context in which your role operates, including economic, social, and political factors.
You are expected to recognize how your day-to-day tasks contribute to the department's goals and how these goals align with government priorities. Unlike entry-level positions, where the focus is more on completing specific tasks, the AO level requires you to have a broader perspective and to consider the implications of your actions on various stakeholders.
Statement Structure: The B-STAR Technique
To effectively demonstrate your ability to See the Big Picture, it's essential to structure your statement in a clear and impactful way. One highly recommended method is the B-STAR technique, which stands for Belief, Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Here's how you can apply it:
Belief: Start by explaining your core belief or principle regarding Seeing the Big Picture. This sets the stage for your example and shows your underlying motivation.
Situation: Describe a specific situation where this belief was put into practice. Make sure to choose an example that clearly illustrates your ability to understand and integrate the broader context.
Task: Outline the task you were responsible for in this situation. This should demonstrate the level of responsibility and scope of your role.
Action: Detail the actions you took to address the task. Focus on how you applied your understanding of the wider context to make informed decisions.
Result: Conclude with the result of your actions. Emphasize how your ability to See the Big Picture led to a positive outcome for your team, department, or the wider community.
Using the B-STAR technique ensures that your statement is comprehensive, concise, and focused on showcasing your ability to understand and contribute to the broader objectives of your role.
Now, let's take a look at an example statement to see how these elements come together in practice.
Check out 50 examples covering all 9 key behaviours
250 Word Statement Example
I believe that understanding the bigger picture is essential for aligning individual efforts with broader goals, even in self-employment.
As a freelance graphic-designer, I was hired to create branding materials for a small startup focused on sustainable products. While my primary task was to design logos and marketing materials, I recognised the broader impact my work could have on promoting sustainability.
To ensure my designs resonated with the startup’s mission, I started by researching the environmental benefits of their products and their target audience’s values. I gathered information from the client and also studied market trends in sustainable products. This helped me understand the context and purpose behind the project.
I considered the diverse needs of the startup’s audience, which included environmentally conscious consumers from various backgrounds. I aimed to create inclusive and appealing designs that would attract a range of customers.
Throughout the project, I maintained regular communication with the client, providing updates and seeking feedback to ensure my work aligned with their vision. I also kept myself informed about new trends in sustainable branding by following industry news and engaging with online design communities.
The final branding materials effectively communicated the startup’s commitment to sustainability and helped them launch successfully. My designs were praised for their clarity and appeal, contributing to the startup’s initial traction in the market.
By aligning my efforts with the client’s broader goals and considering the impact on diverse audiences, I was able to deliver a product that supported the startup’s mission and success.
