In the context of Civil Service job applications, “Changing & Improving” refers to an individual’s ability to adapt to change and seek out opportunities to enhance processes, systems, and their own personal skills. It’s about being open to new ideas and ways of working, making constructive suggestions, and taking action to improve efficiency, productivity, and the overall effectiveness of an organization.
When applying for a job within the Civil Service, you’re often asked to provide a 250-word statement on various competencies or behaviors, including “Changing & Improving.” This requirement is designed to give you the opportunity to showcase your ability to adapt and innovate. In this statement, you should concisely describe a specific instance where you demonstrated this behavior. It’s your chance to tell a story that highlights your skills and mindset towards embracing change and driving improvements.
The video above introduces the B-STAR (Belief, Situation, Task, Action, Result) method as a powerful tool for constructing your 250-word statement. This method helps you structure your story effectively:
- Belief: Start by explaining your belief or perspective on the importance of being open to change and seeking improvement.
- Situation: Describe the context or situation that required a change or improvement.
- Task: Clarify what your role was in this scenario – what you needed to do.
- Action: Detail the specific actions you took to address the situation and bring about change or improvement.
- Result: Conclude with the outcomes of your actions. Highlight the positive impact on the organization, processes, or yourself.
By following the B-STAR method, you can create compelling and structured statements that clearly demonstrate your “Changing & Improving” capabilities. This approach not only helps to keep your statement focused and within the 250-word limit but also makes it easier for job selectors to understand your strengths and potential value to the Civil Service.