Application process

The ability to collaborate with a variety of individuals and organisations in a way that demonstrates an understanding of diversity, political sensitivity, and emotional intelligence. Meets and manages expectations to deliver outcomes through positive working relationships.

The ability to communicate clearly and openly both orally and in writing. Actively listens and balances diverse perspectives in order to articulate opinions and evidence with purpose. Selects the most appropriate communication channel to suit the intended audience.

The ability to manage time and prioritise workload effectively to achieve objectives and see things through to completion. Swiftly adjusts approach to address emerging needs and changing situations, priorities and landscapes.

The ability to accurately identify, analyse and interpret complex information from a wide range of sources to understand problems, draw conclusions and deliver well-informed solutions.

Has an understanding of local government and the context in which it operates. Demonstrates a passion and commitment towards serving and supporting the needs and interests of the local community to bring about meaningful, long-term, sustainable impacts.

Ability to take charge and assume responsibility for driving tasks and projects forward. Challenges the status quo and leads by example, developing and motivating others to achieve shared objectives through personal accountability and a commitment to excellence.

Demonstrates a passion for personal growth. Seeks out opportunities to acquire and apply new knowledge about processes, policies, national and international contexts, and legislations.

Maintains a solutions-focused mindset when things don't go according to plan. Is able to respond effectively and adapt and grow in the face of change or challenge.

Question: You have been tasked to lead on the next community engagement event aimed at raising the profile of your department while building relationships with architects, building developers and members of the local community. You have been given a budget of £2,500 and the event is scheduled for three months’ time. You need to produce your project plan and include available resources, timelines, interim benchmarks and deadlines. You also need to ensure the event is a success. What action do you take?

A: You meet with your manager and ask about the previous event resources, timelines, interim benchmarks and deadlines and base your project plan on these.

This answer is ok but it should not be selected as the ‘most likely’ response.

B: You hold initial meetings with architects, developers and community representatives, and ask what they would want to get out of the event including any resources or information they would like to share, before meeting with your manager to produce your project plan.

This is the best answer, so candidates should select it as their ‘most likely’ response.

C: You produce your project plan based on feedback from previous events to learn what went right and what could be improved upon.

This is a poor answer, candidates should select it as their ‘least likely’ response to the situation. 

Question: You are a member of a project team currently working on a critical project that requires coordination and collaboration across different departments. All members have high workloads in their day to day duties, including you. However, you have noticed a lack of enthusiasm and motivation among two team members from other departments, which is hindering progress. You want to encourage them to actively participate and contribute to the project’s success. What action do you take?

A: You offer to provide resources and to support them, demonstrating your commitment to their success and the project’s overall success.

This answer is ok but it should not be selected as the ‘most likely’ response.

B: You organise a team-bonding activity with the team members from other departments outside of work hours to help build rapport and foster relationships.

This is a poor answer, candidates should select it as their ‘least likely’ response to the situation.

C: You speak to the two team members and ask them to tell you about any problems they may be facing. You also share the project’s goals and objectives, emphasising the potential benefits for their respective departments, and request their active involvement.

This is the best answer, so candidates should select it as their ‘most likely’ response.

Question: You have been working in your current position for a few years, and there is a new opportunity for a promotion in your department. However, the role requires skills and knowledge in areas you are not familiar with, but you feel confident that you are a quick learner and will be able to fulfil the requirements of the position. What action do you take?

A: Speak to your manager about the opportunity and ask for tasks that will help you gain the required skills while your application is being processed.

This is the best answer, so candidates should select it as their ‘most likely’ response.

B: Research the required skills for the new role and enrol in relevant courses or workshops to upskill yourself. Wait until you have the necessary skills and apply when the opportunity presents again in the future.

This answer is ok but it should not be selected as the ‘most likely’ response.

C: Research the required skills for the new role and enrol in relevant courses or workshops to upskill yourself while your application is being processed.

This is a poor answer, candidates should select it as their ‘least likely’ response to the situation.