Seeing the big picture is all about understanding how your work fits into the larger goals of the organization you’re applying to, in this case, the Civil Service. It means recognizing not just what you do, but why it matters. For Civil Service job applications, showing that you can see the big picture means demonstrating that you understand the Civil Service’s values, its mission, and how your role contributes to achieving broader objectives. It’s about showing that you’re not just focused on the task at hand but are aware of the impact your work has on the organization and its stakeholders.
When applying for a job with the Civil Service, you might be asked to write a 250 word statement. This is your opportunity to showcase how your skills and experiences make you the right fit for the job. It’s a short piece, so every word counts. You’ll need to be clear and to the point, focusing on what’s most important. This statement is your chance to show that you can see the big picture by linking your personal contributions to the wider goals of the Civil Service.
The video above introduces the B-STAR method as a great way to structure your 250 word statement. B-STAR stands for Belief, Situation, Task, Action, Result. This method helps you organize your thoughts and write a compelling statement. You start with your Belief, which shows your understanding of the big picture and how your values align with the Civil Service. Then, you describe a Situation that demonstrates your capabilities, followed by the Task you needed to complete. Next, you detail the Actions you took to address the task. Finally, you share the Result of your actions, highlighting the positive outcome and how it contributed to the larger goals. Using the B-STAR method helps you create a structured, impactful statement that clearly demonstrates your suitability for the job, emphasizing your ability to see the big picture.