Mike Jacobsen

Applying for a Civil Service position can feel like navigating a maze, but understanding the process can make it a lot smoother. One crucial part of the application is the 250-word statement for various behaviours, such as “Communicating & Influencing.” Today, we’ll delve into this specific behaviour, focusing on what’s expected at the Grade 6 level, and share tips on crafting a compelling statement.

Understanding the Behaviour

Communicating & Influencing is all about effectively conveying information, ideas, and viewpoints to others while also being able to influence their opinions and actions. At the Grade 6 level, this behaviour emphasizes a higher degree of strategic thinking and leadership compared to lower grades. You’re not just expected to communicate clearly and persuasively; you need to influence key stakeholders, navigate complex discussions, and make impactful decisions.

For grades below Grade 6, the focus is more on clear and effective communication within a team or with direct reports. At the Grade 6 level, however, you’re dealing with senior management, cross-departmental teams, and external partners. You must demonstrate a knack for high-stakes negotiation, shaping policy, and steering large projects. Above Grade 6, the expectations rise further, requiring more profound strategic leadership and a broader scope of influence across the entire organization.

Tips for Writing Your 250 Word Statement

Crafting a powerful 250-word statement for the “Communicating & Influencing” behaviour can be daunting, but here are some tips to guide you:

1. Understand the B-STAR Method: This stands for Belief, Situation, Task, Action, and Result. It’s a structured way to present your example, ensuring you cover all the necessary elements.
2. Be Specific: Vague statements won’t cut it. Use specific examples from your experience that clearly demonstrate your ability to communicate and influence at a strategic level.
3. Showcase Strategic Impact: Highlight instances where your communication and influencing skills led to significant, positive outcomes for your team or organization.
4. Focus on Key Stakeholders: At Grade 6, it’s crucial to show your interaction with senior leaders, cross-functional teams, or external partners. Emphasize how you managed these relationships.
5. Quantify Your Success: Whenever possible, include metrics or tangible results that showcase the impact of your actions. This adds weight to your statement and makes it more compelling.
6. Keep it Concise: With only 250 words, every sentence counts. Be clear, concise, and direct. Avoid fluff and focus on the most impactful parts of your story.

250 Word Communicating & Influencing Example

I believe that effective communication and the ability to influence are essential for fostering trust and achieving organizational goals.

As a Regional Sales Manager our team needed to introduce a new product line to a skeptical market. The product was innovative but required a shift in how our clients perceived its value.

My task was to lead this introduction and gain buy-in from both our sales team and potential clients. To start, I organized training sessions for our sales team, breaking down the product’s complex features into clear, understandable benefits.

Understanding that each client had unique needs, I tailored my communication approach accordingly. For some, I emphasized cost savings; for others, I highlighted the product’s cutting-edge technology. I conducted one-on-one meetings with key clients, listening to their concerns and addressing them with tailored solutions.

When faced with resistance, I remained open-minded and respectful, using persuasive techniques to illustrate how the product aligned with their long-term goals. I introduced webinars and interactive demos as part of our communication strategy, making the most of digital resources to engage a broader audience efficiently.

To monitor our progress, I gathered feedback from both the sales team and clients, making necessary adjustments to our approach. This helped refine our messaging and improve our influence.

The result was a successful product launch, with sales exceeding targets by 30% in the first quarter. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of clear, adaptive communication and the ability to influence through understanding and respect for diverse perspectives.

SEE MORE EXAMPLES…

Hey there! If you’re gearing up for a Civil Service exam, you probably already know about the dreaded 250-word statement. These statements can feel like a puzzle sometimes, but with a little bit of guidance, they can be cracked. Today, we’re diving into the “Changing and Improving” behaviour, specifically at the Grade 7 level. So grab a cup of coffee, and let’s chat about how you can ace this part of your application.

The Civil Service Application Process

Applying for a position in the Civil Service means you’ll need to showcase specific behaviours through concise, well-structured statements. These 250-word statements are your opportunity to shine and demonstrate how your experiences align with the role you’re after. Think of it as your moment to tell a compelling story that highlights your skills and potential.

Understanding “Changing and Improving” Behaviour

When we talk about the “Changing and Improving” behaviour, we’re referring to an individual’s ability to drive and support change, as well as continuously seek ways to improve. At the Grade 7 level, this means not only initiating and managing change but also inspiring and influencing others to embrace it.

So, what does this look like at Grade 7?

• Below Grade 7: You might focus more on supporting change initiatives, contributing ideas, and implementing improvements within your team or area.
• Grade 7: Here, you’re expected to lead by example. This means identifying areas for improvement, developing strategies to address these, and ensuring successful implementation. You should also be adept at managing resistance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Above Grade 7: As you climb higher, the emphasis shifts more towards strategic oversight, influencing change at an organizational level, and shaping the broader vision for improvement.

Tips for Crafting Your 250 Word Statement

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of writing your statement. A handy structure to follow is the B-STAR method, which stands for Belief, Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Here’s how you can use it effectively:

1. Belief: Start by briefly stating your belief or philosophy about changing and improving. This sets the tone and provides context.
2. Situation: Describe a specific situation where you identified a need for change or improvement. Keep it concise but clear.
3. Task: Outline the task or challenge you faced. What needed to be done, and what were your responsibilities?
4. Action: This is the heart of your statement. Detail the actions you took to address the situation. Be specific about your approach and why you chose it.
5. Result: Finally, showcase the outcomes of your actions. Quantify your results if possible and highlight any positive impacts.

Practical Tips

• Be Specific: Vague statements won’t cut it. Use concrete examples to illustrate your points.
• Stay Focused: You have only 250 words, so every word counts. Stick to one main example that best showcases your abilities.
• Showcase Leadership: At Grade 7, leadership is key. Demonstrate how you led the change process and influenced others.
• Highlight Improvements: Clearly outline the improvements made and their impact. This shows the tangible benefits of your efforts.
• Reflect and Refine: After writing your draft, step back and review it. Trim any unnecessary details and ensure it flows logically.

Now that you have a framework and some tips, let’s look at an example to bring it all together.

Changing & Improving 250 Word Statement Example

Embracing change and fostering innovation are fundamental to advancing public service efficiency and effectiveness. I am passionate about encouraging creative solutions and continuously improving processes to deliver better outcomes for the community.

In my role as a Project Manager in local council, we faced challenges in meeting community engagement targets for a new public health campaign. The traditional methods of outreach were not resonating with the diverse population we served.

I was responsible for devising a strategy to enhance our engagement efforts. I began by analyzing our current methods and identifying gaps through community feedback. Recognizing the need for a more inclusive approach, I initiated a series of workshops involving local community leaders, health professionals, and residents. This collaborative effort generated a wealth of innovative ideas.

I prioritized the implementation of a multilingual digital platform that included interactive features such as live Q&A sessions and virtual health seminars. To ensure accessibility, I coordinated with IT specialists to develop user-friendly interfaces that catered to individuals with varying levels of digital literacy. Additionally, I established a feedback mechanism to gather real-time input from users, enabling us to make continuous improvements.

These actions led to a 50% increase in community engagement within three months. The multilingual digital platform received positive feedback for its inclusivity and effectiveness, significantly enhancing the reach of our public health campaign. This experience highlighted the importance of creating an environment where innovation thrives and voices are heard, reinforcing my commitment to driving change and improvement in public service delivery.

Click here to see more examples…

Applying for a Civil Service role can feel like a monumental task, but fear not! One key element you’ll need to master is the 250-word statement. This is where you showcase your skills and suitability for the job by demonstrating specific behaviours. Today, we’ll focus on the “Changing and Improving” behaviour, especially for those eyeing a Grade 6 position.

Understanding the 250-Word Statement

In your Civil Service application, the 250-word statement is your chance to shine. It’s not just about listing your skills but showing, through concrete examples, how you embody the behaviours the role demands. Think of it as a mini-story where you’re the hero, overcoming challenges and making improvements.

The “Changing and Improving” Behaviour

Changing and Improving is all about being adaptable and proactive in enhancing processes. At Grade 6, this behaviour expects you to not only spot areas for improvement but to lead significant changes and inspire others to do the same.

What It Means at Grade 6

At this level, you’re not just implementing small tweaks but driving substantial, strategic changes. This might involve:

• Leading initiatives that transform how your department functions.
• Innovating solutions that address long-standing issues.
• Mentoring others to embrace a culture of continuous improvement.

Grade 6 vs. Other Grades:

• Below Grade 6: You might focus on suggesting improvements and supporting change.
• Above Grade 6: You’ll be expected to set the vision for change across multiple departments or the entire organisation.

Tips for Crafting Your 250-Word Statement

Writing this statement can be daunting, but here are some friendly tips to help you nail it using the B-STAR method:

1. Belief

Start with your belief or approach towards changing and improving. Why is it important to you?

2. Situation

Briefly set the scene. What was the context that required change? Was there a problem that needed solving?

3. Task

Describe your responsibility in that situation. What role did you play in addressing the issue?

4. Action

This is the core of your statement. Detail the steps you took to implement the change. Be specific about your actions.

5. Result

Finally, wrap up with the outcome. What were the tangible improvements? How did your actions benefit the organisation or team?

Additional Tips:

• Be concise: Every word counts in a 250-word statement, so make sure each one serves a purpose.
• Show impact: Focus on the difference you made. Numbers, percentages, and specific outcomes are your friends.
• Stay relevant: Tailor your examples to the job you’re applying for. Highlight skills and experiences that align with the job description.

Here’s where your journey begins to transform your career. Below is an example statement to guide you in crafting your own…

250 Word Statement Example

I strongly believe that embracing change and fostering an environment that encourages innovation are crucial for driving continuous improvement in any organisation. In my career, I have consistently sought opportunities to enhance my skills in change management and have actively promoted a culture where creative solutions are valued and implemented.

While leading a team in a previous role, we faced declining efficiency due to outdated processes. my responsibility was to identify the root causes of inefficiency, propose innovative solutions, and implement changes that would enhance our overall performance.

I began by conducting a thorough review of our existing processes, gathering feedback from team members and stakeholders to understand their pain points and suggestions. I organised brainstorming sessions to encourage team members to share their innovative ideas. Recognising the importance of a diverse range of perspectives, I ensured that all voices were heard and considered. After evaluating the suggestions, I proposed a series of changes, including the integration of new technology to automate repetitive tasks. I also established a feedback loop to monitor the impact of these changes and make adjustments as needed. Throughout the process, I maintained open communication with senior management, providing constructive challenges and clear articulation of the benefits these changes would bring to the business.

The implementation of these changes led to a 30% increase in efficiency and significantly improved team morale. The automation of repetitive tasks freed up time for more strategic activities, and the inclusive approach to idea generation fostered a culture of continuous improvement.

Click here for more examples…

So, you’ve decided to apply for a role in the Civil Service—bravo! It’s a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference. One of the key components of the application is the infamous 250-word statement. If you’re aiming for a Senior Executive Officer (SEO) position, you’ll need to demonstrate specific behaviours. Today, we’re diving into the “Changing and Improving” behaviour and how you can nail this in your statement.

Understanding the “Changing and Improving” Behaviour

The “Changing and Improving” behaviour is all about embracing change and finding innovative ways to enhance operations and services. At the SEO level, this behaviour emphasizes strategic thinking and leadership. You’re not just implementing changes—you’re driving them.

At this grade, you’re expected to:

• Identify areas for improvement within your team or project.
• Develop and implement innovative solutions.
• Influence and lead others through change.

This is a step up from the grades below, where the focus might be more on following established processes and suggesting incremental improvements. Conversely, at grades above SEO, you might be involved in shaping broader organizational strategies and policies. Here, you’re in a sweet spot where you balance hands-on improvement with strategic foresight.

Crafting Your 250-Word Statement: Tips and Tricks

Writing a 250-word statement might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a breeze. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you craft a compelling statement:

Use the B-STAR Method: Structure is crucial. The B-STAR method (Belief, Situation, Task, Action, Result) helps you organize your thoughts clearly and concisely.

• Belief: Start with your belief in the importance of changing and improving. This sets the stage.
• Situation: Describe a situation where change was necessary. Keep it brief but specific.
• Task: Outline your role in the scenario. What were you tasked with?
• Action: Detail the actions you took to drive change. Be explicit about your strategies and decisions.
• Result: Highlight the positive outcomes of your actions. Use quantifiable results if possible.

Be Specific: Vague statements won’t cut it. Use specific examples from your experience to illustrate your points.

Show Impact: Demonstrate how your actions made a real difference. Did you save time? Improve efficiency? Increase team morale? Show the tangible benefits of your efforts.

Keep It Concise: You only have 250 words. Every word counts, so make sure each one serves a purpose. Avoid fluff and filler.

Proofread: A well-written statement is free from errors. Proofread your work or ask a friend to review it for you.

Stay Relevant: Ensure everything you include is relevant to the “Changing and Improving” behaviour at the SEO level. Don’t stray off-topic.

Now that you have these tips in mind, let’s dive into an example statement to see these principles in action.

Changing & Improving 250 Word Statement Example

Belief in continuous improvement and innovative change is essential to maintaining relevance and efficiency in any role. I have always valued this behaviour, as it drives progress and ensures that we meet evolving demands effectively.

As a customer service supervisor our team faced persistent issues with long call resolution times, negatively impacting customer satisfaction. Recognising the need for change, I took the initiative to revamp our approach.

The situation demanded a thorough review of our existing procedures. My role involved identifying pain points in our workflow and proposing solutions. I began by gathering feedback from the team and analyzing call logs to pinpoint the root causes of delays.

I discovered that a significant portion of the resolution time was spent on repetitive queries. To address this, I proposed the implementation of a comprehensive FAQ database accessible to all team members. I worked closely with the IT department to develop this resource and organized training sessions to ensure everyone was comfortable using it.

In parallel, I introduced a weekly feedback loop where team members could share insights on the database’s effectiveness and suggest further improvements. This collaborative approach not only refined the FAQ resource but also fostered a culture of continuous improvement.

The impact was substantial. Average call resolution time dropped by 40%, and customer satisfaction scores improved by 25%. These results underscored the importance of embracing change and continuously seeking ways to enhance our processes. This experience has reinforced my commitment to fostering innovation and efficiency in all my endeavors.

Click here to see more example statements…

Applying for a civil service role? Ah, the joy of navigating through the application process, especially those 250-word statements! They’re essential, yes, but they can be quite the puzzle to crack. One key behaviour you’ll often need to discuss is “Changing and Improving,” particularly at the Higher Executive Officer (HEO) level. Let’s dive into what this entails and how you can nail that statement.

Understanding the Behaviour: Changing and Improving

So, what exactly does “Changing and Improving” mean? At its core, this behaviour is all about embracing change, fostering innovation, and continuously seeking ways to enhance processes and outcomes. It’s about not just accepting the status quo but actively looking for opportunities to make things better.

At the HEO level, this behaviour takes on a more strategic flavour. You’re expected to not only identify areas for improvement but also lead initiatives that drive change. This means understanding the bigger picture, influencing others, and ensuring that changes align with organizational goals. It’s a step up from the grades below, where the focus might be more on identifying improvements rather than leading them. Conversely, at grades above HEO, there’s often a greater emphasis on strategic planning and long-term vision, rather than just implementation.

Tips for Writing Your 250-Word Statement

Alright, now that we know what “Changing and Improving” involves, let’s talk about how to write that perfect 250-word statement. Here’s a friendly guide to help you get started:

1. Use the B-STAR Method

The B-STAR (Belief, Situation, Task, Action, Result) structure is your best friend here. It helps keep your statement clear, concise, and compelling.

• Belief: Start by sharing your belief in the importance of changing and improving.
• Situation: Describe a specific situation where you needed to implement change.
• Task: Outline the task you were responsible for in that situation.
• Action: Detail the actions you took to address the task and drive improvement.
• Result: Highlight the outcomes of your actions, focusing on the positive impact.

2. Be Specific and Relevant

Choose an example that’s both specific and relevant to the HEO level. Your example should demonstrate your ability to lead change and improvement initiatives effectively.

3. Showcase Your Leadership Skills

Remember, at the HEO level, it’s crucial to show how you lead others in the change process. Highlight your ability to influence, motivate, and guide your team towards achieving better outcomes.

4. Quantify Your Results

Whenever possible, quantify the results of your actions. Numbers speak louder than words. For example, talk about percentage improvements, time saved, or any other measurable impact your actions had.

5. Keep It Concise

You only have 250 words, so make every word count. Be clear and to the point, avoiding any unnecessary jargon or filler words.

And now, let’s see how all this comes together with an example statement:

Changing & Improving 250 Word Statement Example

I believe that continuous improvement and embracing change are crucial for organisational growth and efficiency. This belief drives my proactive approach in seeking innovative solutions and fostering an environment that encourages creative ideas. In my role, I constantly strive to enhance processes and adapt to evolving needs, ensuring the best outcomes for our stakeholders.

In my previous role, our team faced a significant backlog in processing applications, causing delays and frustration among applicants. The outdated manual system was inefficient and resource-intensive, necessitating an urgent overhaul to improve productivity and customer satisfaction.

As the lead on this project, I was responsible for identifying inefficiencies, proposing improvements, and overseeing the implementation of a new process.

I began by conducting a thorough analysis of the current workflow, identifying bottlenecks and redundant steps. I solicited feedback from team members and stakeholders to gather insights and suggestions for improvement. Recognising the potential of technology to enhance efficiency, I researched and proposed the adoption of a digital application processing system. I clearly communicated the benefits and implementation plan to my colleagues, addressing their concerns and providing support to those with varying levels of comfort with new technology.

The implementation of the system resulted in a 50% reduction in processing time and a 30% increase in team productivity. The streamlined process not only improved efficiency but also enhanced customer satisfaction, as evidenced by a 40% decrease in complaints. This change initiative reinforced my commitment to continuous improvement and demonstrated the impact of embracing innovation in the workplace.

Click here to see more example statements for this behaviour and all 9 of the key behaviours within the Civil Service Success Profiles

In the UK Civil Service, “Changing and Improving” is a fundamental behavior that champions flexibility, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence. For those in the Executive Officer (EO) grade, embodying this behavior is vital for driving the success and efficiency of their teams and departments.

The Civil Service places a high value on adaptability and continual enhancement. As an EO, your role involves regularly evaluating current practices, embracing new technologies, and seeking innovative solutions to streamline operations.

Adapting to new procedures and technologies is just the beginning. Helping your colleagues understand and integrate these changes is equally important. Promptly addressing any issues that arise ensures smooth transitions and sustained productivity.

Additionally, being ready to handle unexpected challenges or emergencies efficiently is crucial. This approach not only maintains stability but also encourages a culture of continuous improvement and resilience within the organization.

Crafting Your Statement – A Fresh Approach

Creating a compelling 250-word statement for the “Changing and Improving” behavior at the EO grade requires a unique and thoughtful approach. Here are some fresh ideas to guide you:

Understand the Impact: Begin by exploring how change and improvement can significantly benefit your role and team. Reflect on the broader impact of your actions on the Civil Service’s mission.

Share Personal Insights: Start your statement with a personal anecdote or insight about the importance of change. This could be a moment when you realized the value of adaptability and innovation.

Detail Specific Experiences: Highlight specific instances where you led or contributed to improvements. Describe the challenges you faced, the innovative solutions you proposed, and the positive outcomes that resulted.

Highlight Collaborative Efforts: Emphasize your role in collaborating with colleagues to implement changes. Showcase how your teamwork and leadership skills helped drive successful transitions and improvements.

Quantify Your Successes: Where possible, include quantifiable results to illustrate the impact of your efforts. Mention any measurable improvements in efficiency, cost savings, or service quality.

Reflect on Learning: Discuss how these experiences have shaped your approach to change and improvement. Share any lessons learned and how they have influenced your professional growth.

Align with Civil Service Values: Ensure your statement aligns with the core values of the Civil Service, such as integrity, honesty, and objectivity. Demonstrate how your commitment to these values has guided your actions.

Be Clear and Engaging: Use clear, engaging language to convey your message. Avoid jargon and keep your writing concise and to the point, ensuring every word adds value to your statement.

Review and Refine: Before submitting your statement, take the time to review and refine it. Ensure it flows logically, is free of grammatical errors, and effectively communicates your experiences and achievements.

Changing & Improving EO Example Statement

I believe that continuous improvement and embracing change are vital for organizational success. Change fosters innovation, efficiency, and effectiveness, enhancing both personal and team growth.

In my previous role we faced challenges with the accuracy and efficiency of our customer data entry processes. The team relied heavily on manual data entry, resulting in frequent errors and delays that affected overall customer satisfaction.

My responsibility was to identify the root causes of these issues and develop a strategy to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of our data entry process. I began by mapping out the entire data entry process, pinpointing where errors and delays were most common. Engaging with team members revealed that the lack of a standardized procedure and insufficient training were significant contributors. To address this, I proposed the adoption of an automated data entry system integrated with our existing CRM software. After thorough research, I selected the most appropriate software and presented my proposal to senior management. Upon approval, I led the implementation project, including training sessions for the team to ensure a smooth transition.

The introduction of the automated data entry system led to a 50% reduction in data entry errors and a 30% increase in processing speed. Team members adapted quickly, expressing greater job satisfaction due to the reduced workload and fewer repetitive tasks. Customer satisfaction scores improved significantly as a result of faster and more accurate service. This experience underscored the importance of seeking out and implementing innovative solutions to drive continuous improvement.

Click here to see more example statements for all of the behaviours tested within Civil Service applications

In the UK Civil Service, the behavior “Changing and Improving” is crucial for Administrative Officers (AO) to excel in their roles. This competency ensures that employees remain flexible, embrace change, and consistently seek ways to enhance their work’s efficiency and effectiveness.

The Civil Service emphasizes the need for continual adaptation and improvement, particularly through regular assessment of current practices and identification of potential enhancements. This process often involves adopting new digital technologies to streamline tasks and boost productivity. For an Administrative Officer, being well-versed in these innovations and helping colleagues adapt is key to maintaining a smooth operational flow.

Addressing challenges that arise from new implementations promptly is essential. An AO must ensure that transitions are seamless and that any issues are resolved quickly to prevent disruptions. This proactive approach nurtures a culture of resilience and ongoing improvement within the organization.

Writing Your Statement – Tips

When crafting a 250-word statement for the “Changing and Improving” behavior at the AO grade, clear and structured writing is vital. Here are some tips to help you create an impactful statement:

1. Understand the Criteria: Read the job description and behavior framework for “Changing and Improving” at the AO level. Understand what the Civil Service values in this competency.
   
2. Use the B-STAR Method: Structure your statement using the STAR approach:
   • Belief: Explain your high level thoughts/feelings about the behavior
   • Situation: Describe a specific instance where you saw a need for improvement.
   • Task: Explain your responsibility in that situation.
   • Action: Detail the steps you took to address the need for improvement.
   • Result: Conclude with the outcome of your actions, emphasizing any positive impacts.
     
3. Be Specific and Relevant: Use concrete examples from your experience that directly relate to the behavior. Highlight how you reviewed processes, suggested improvements, learned new procedures, and managed unexpected situations effectively.
   
4. Quantify Achievements: Where possible, include measurable results to demonstrate the impact of your actions. Mention any increases in efficiency, cost savings, or service quality improvements.
   
5. Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your role in the example. Showcase your contributions and the skills you employed to achieve the outcome.
   
6. Reflect Civil Service Values: Ensure your statement aligns with the Civil Service values of integrity, honesty, objectivity, and impartiality. Show how your actions supported these values.
   
7. Be Concise and Clear: With a 250-word limit, it’s important to be concise and avoid unnecessary jargon. Ensure every word adds value to your statement.
   
8. Proofread: Before submission, proofread your statement to correct any grammatical errors and ensure it flows logically.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively demonstrate your capability in “Changing and Improving” and how it aligns with the responsibilities of an Administrative Officer in the Civil Service.

Check out 50 example statements covering all 9 behaviours

Changing & Improving AO Statement Example

I believe that being adaptable and continuously seeking better ways to approach tasks can significantly enhance efficiency and productivity.

I was recently part of a student-group responsible for organising a charity event. Initially, our group faced challenges with coordinating tasks and time-management, leading to confusion and delays. Recognising the need for improvement, I suggested implementing a more structured approach to our planning and execution.

My role involved organising meetings and assigning specific responsibilities to members based on their strengths. I proposed using a shared-document to track tasks, deadlines, and resources. This document served as a central point for updates and ensured everyone was aware of their responsibilities and progress.

To get everyone on board, I demonstrated how to use the shared-document and explained the benefits of having a clear and organised plan. I created a timeline with key milestones and encouraged open communication to address any issues promptly. I also provided support to my peers in using the new system and adjusting to the structured approach.

The result was a significant improvement in our coordination and efficiency. We successfully organised the charity event, which ran smoothly and raised more funds than anticipated. The structured approach allowed us to work more cohesively as a team and reduced the stress associated with last-minute changes and miscommunications.

This experience underscored the importance of continuous improvement and adaptability. By taking the initiative to implement a better system and supporting my peers through the change, I contributed to a more effective and successful team effort.

Click here to see 4 more “Changing & Improving” example statements for AA/AO grade roles

In the civil service, “Changing and Improving” is one of the core competencies designed to ensure that employees are adaptable, open to change, and continuously seeking ways to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their work.

For an Administrative Assistant (AA), this competency is particularly relevant as it helps them contribute to the overall success and productivity of their team and department.

The Civil Service wants to ensure that the organization remains adaptable and continuously improving, by regularly reviewing current methods and identifying potential enhancements. This includes leveraging the latest digital technologies to streamline processes and increase efficiency.

As new procedures are adopted, it is essential to not only familiarize oneself with these changes but also to assist colleagues in understanding and implementing them. Addressing any issues that arise from these transitions promptly and appropriately is vital to maintaining a smooth workflow.

Additionally, it is imperative to react effectively and appropriately when unexpected situations or emergencies occur, ensuring minimal disruption to operations. This approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement and resilience within the organization.

Writing Your Statement – Tips

Creating a strong 250-word statement for the Civil Service’s “Changing and Improving” behavior at Grade AA involves clear, concise, and structured writing. Here are some tips to help you craft an effective statement:

Understand the Criteria: Carefully read the job description and the behavior framework for “Changing and Improving” at Grade AA. Understand what the Civil Service values and expects in this competency.

Use the B-STAR Method: Structure your statement using the B-STAR approach:

Be Specific and Relevant: Provide specific examples from your experience that directly relate to the behavior. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to review and suggest improvements, learn and implement new procedures, and respond effectively to emergencies.

Quantify Achievements: Where possible, include quantifiable results to demonstrate the impact of your actions. For example, mention any increases in efficiency, cost savings, or improvements in service quality.

Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your role in the example. Highlight your contributions and the skills you utilized to achieve the outcome.

Reflect Civil Service Values: Ensure your statement aligns with the Civil Service values of integrity, honesty, objectivity, and impartiality. Show how your actions supported these values.

Be Concise and Clear: Given the 250-word limit, make every word count. Avoid unnecessary jargon and be as clear and concise as possible.

Proofread: Before submitting your statement, proofread it to correct any grammatical errors and ensure it flows logically.

250 Word Statement Example for AA Roles – Changing & Improving Behaviour

I believe that continuously seeking ways to improve processes and embrace new technologies not only enhances productivity but also fosters a culture of adaptability and innovation. I am proactive in learning new procedures and supporting colleagues in doing the same, ensuring that we can collectively respond to changes and emergencies effectively.

As an Administrative Officer, our company faced challenges with outdated manual filing systems, which caused delays and inefficiencies. Recognising the need for improvement, I took the initiative to propose a transition to a digital document management system.

I was responsible for researching suitable digital solutions, presenting my findings to management, and assisting with implementation. I analysed various options, considering factors such as user-friendliness, cost, and integration capabilities with our existing systems. After selecting the most suitable software, I developed a comprehensive implementation plan that included training sessions for staff to ensure a smooth transition.

I conducted training workshops to familiarise my colleagues with the new system, addressing concerns and providing ongoing support. This proactive approach ensured that everyone was comfortable with the new procedures and could utilise the technology effectively.

As a result, our document retrieval time was reduced by 50%, and the overall efficiency of our department improved significantly. The new system also enhanced our ability to handle emergencies, as important documents could be accessed quickly and securely from any location.

This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of continuously seeking improvements and adapting to new technologies, ultimately contributing to a more productive and responsive work environment.

Click here to see 4 more “Changing & Improving” example statements for AA/AO grade roles