Welcome to our guide on mastering the Civil Service behavior “Developing Self and Others” at the Grade 6 level. Whether you’re preparing for an upcoming interview or looking to sharpen your skills, you’re in the right place. This post will break down exactly what you need to know, from key behavior definitions to answering interview questions with confidence.
By the end, you’ll have a strong understanding of how to approach questions using the B-STAR method and avoid common mistakes.
Contents
What is “Developing Self and Others” and Why Is It Important for Grade 6?
Developing Self and Others is about growth—both for yourself and those around you. At its core, this behavior focuses on continuous learning, mentoring, and encouraging others to achieve their potential.
At the Grade 6 level, this behavior takes on a strategic edge. You’re not just responsible for your own development but for fostering growth in your team. This could involve setting up learning opportunities, identifying potential in others, and leading by example.
Compared to other levels, Grade 6 requires you to think big-picture. You’re expected to have a strong sense of self-awareness, constantly seeking feedback and offering guidance. You’re also in charge of creating an environment that supports collective growth.
Common Interview Questions for “Developing Self and Others”
- Can you give an example of a time when you helped someone develop their skills?
- Describe a situation where you had to improve your own skills to meet the demands of your role.
- How do you ensure continuous development in your team?
- Tell us about a time you gave constructive feedback. How was it received?
- How do you identify learning opportunities for others?
- See more…
How to Answer Using the B-STAR Method
To help structure your responses, we recommend using the B-STAR method. This framework ensures you cover all angles, making your answers clear and well-rounded.
Here’s how it works:
B – Belief: Start by explaining your belief or principle regarding the situation. What motivates your actions? S – Situation: Set the scene. What was the context of the situation you faced? T – Task: What was your specific role? What were you responsible for? A – Action: Explain the steps you took to address the situation. Focus on your contributions. R – Result: Share the outcome. What did your actions lead to? Be specific about the positive impact.
Sample B-STAR Answer
Question: Can you give an example of a time when you helped someone develop their skills?
Answer: “I strongly believe that helping others grow is one of the most rewarding aspects of leadership. In my previous role, I noticed a junior team member struggling with presenting their ideas confidently (Belief). We were working on a high-stakes project, and their contribution was crucial (Situation). My task was to ensure everyone was equipped to deliver high-quality work, so I decided to help them improve their presentation skills (Task). I scheduled a series of one-on-one sessions where I provided feedback and tips, even organizing mock presentations to boost their confidence (Action). By the end of the project, not only had their presentation skills improved, but they also received positive feedback from senior management for their clear and impactful delivery (Result).”
Why This Answer Works
🔑 Belief: The candidate opens by sharing a belief in the value of helping others grow. This shows a strong leadership mindset.
🏗 Situation: They provide clear context, explaining the importance of the project and the team member’s role.
🎯 Task: The candidate takes responsibility for the task, emphasizing their leadership in improving the team’s performance.
👣 Action: They detail the steps they took to mentor and support the team member, showcasing a proactive approach.
🏆 Result: The outcome is measurable and positive, with feedback from senior management. It reinforces the impact of their actions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Vagueness: Avoid being too general in your answers. Specifics are key.
- Neglecting the Result: Always include the outcome of your actions.
- Overly Modest: This isn’t the time to downplay your role. Highlight your contributions confidently.
- Ignoring the Belief: Forgetting to include your belief or principle can make your answer feel mechanical.
- Rambling: Keep your answers focused and concise. Avoid going off on tangents.
Key Takeaways
At the Grade 6 level, “Developing Self and Others” is about more than just personal growth—it’s about empowering those around you. You’re expected to lead by example, provide opportunities for others, and foster a learning culture.
Mastering this behavior for your interview requires demonstrating how you’ve built others up while continuing your own development. Be clear, structured, and genuine in your responses, and you’ll leave a lasting impression.
