Navigating the Civil Service application process can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to crafting the 250-word statements required for each behaviour.
Many candidates find this to be the most challenging part of their application.
However, with a solid understanding of the required behaviour and a structured approach, what seems like a weakness can quickly transform into a strength.
Related Article: 5 Leadership Behaviour Statement Examples
Understanding Leadership Behaviour at the EO Level
Leadership at the Executive Officer level requires a nuanced understanding of guiding and motivating a team, fostering a collaborative environment, and making informed decisions. Unlike the Assistant Officer level, where the focus might be more on personal contribution and learning, the EO level expects candidates to demonstrate a higher degree of initiative, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence others.
At this level, you are expected to:
- Inspire and motivate others to achieve goals.
- Foster an inclusive environment where all team members feel valued.
- Make informed decisions by considering various perspectives and data.
- Lead by example, setting high standards for yourself and others.
- Navigate complex situations and provide clear direction and support.
Understanding these expectations is crucial to articulating your experience effectively in your 250-word statement.
Structuring Your Statement with the B-STAR Technique
To present your leadership experience clearly and concisely, using the B-STAR technique can be incredibly helpful. This method ensures that your statement is structured, comprehensive, and impactful. Here's how you can apply it:
- Belief: Start by explaining your belief in the importance of leadership. This sets the stage for your example and demonstrates your understanding of the behaviour.
- Situation: Describe a specific situation where you had to demonstrate leadership. This context helps the reader understand the scenario you were in.
- Task: Outline the task or challenge you faced. What was your role, and what were you expected to achieve?
- Action: Detail the actions you took to address the task. Be specific about how you led, the strategies you used, and how you engaged with your team.
- Result: Conclude with the results of your actions. Highlight the positive outcomes, what you learned, and how it impacted your team and the organisation.
By adhering to the B-STAR technique, you ensure that your statement is not only well-organized but also provides a clear and compelling narrative of your leadership capabilities.
With this framework in mind, here is an example statement to illustrate how these principles can be applied effectively:
Check out 50 example statements across all 9 key behaviours
250 Word Statement Example
As a Coordinator at a public library, I deeply believe in the power of leadership to inspire and create change. Leading a team of assistants, I aimed to foster a sense of pride and inclusivity in our work.
When we received a grant to modernize our children's section, I saw an opportunity to engage my team in a meaningful project. I started by sharing my vision of a vibrant, welcoming space that would inspire young readers and support our community's educational needs. I emphasized how our efforts could make a significant impact.
Understanding the importance of diverse perspectives, I organized brainstorming sessions where each team member could contribute ideas. This inclusive approach not only generated creative suggestions but also made everyone feel valued and heard. One assistant proposed a reading corner for children with sensory sensitivities, which we incorporated into our plans.
Throughout the project, I maintained a positive and passionate attitude, which helped keep the team motivated. I regularly updated everyone on our progress and celebrated milestones, ensuring that all contributions were acknowledged.
I also remained vigilant against any inappropriate behavior. When a staff member made a dismissive comment about a colleague's suggestion, I addressed it immediately, reinforcing our commitment to respect and inclusion.
By the end of the project, we had created a dynamic, inclusive space that received positive feedback from both the community and library staff. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of inclusive, passionate leadership to drive meaningful outcomes and foster a supportive environment.
