Mapping your experience to a competency framework

Frameworks reuse the same handful of behaviours: delivering results, working with people, accountability, continuous learning, planning and organising, communication. The words differ by agency; the test does not.

• Write the competency names down the left of a page and, beside each, one real example with a number.
• If a competency has no example, find the nearest one from volunteering, study or a previous sector — never invent.
• Use the framework's own verbs in your CV bullets: delivered, coordinated, ensured, monitored, reported.
• Keep seniority in mind: at officer level the panel wants delivery; at manager level it wants decisions, budgets and people.

The written test

Many agencies add a written exercise: a two-page memo, a budget review or a case response with a tight word limit. Answer in the requested format, put the recommendation first, and leave time to cut a third of what you wrote.