You’ve found a job you’re interested in. Now think about if you want to put time into submitting a job application that will get you to the next stage.
On this page you will find ideas to help you to decide whether to apply for a job:
Review the job ad
The job ad has key information about the job. It includes:
- a snapshot of what’s involved, salary, benefits, etc.
- details about the agency
- details of the contact person who can answer questions about the job
- information on how to apply, including the closing date
- links to other information, such as the role description and agency website
- any essential requirements that you must have to proceed through the recruitment process.
Think about:
- Does the job and its context appeal to me?
- Do I meet most of the job requirements?
- Does the job fit with my interests, skills, career goals?
Even if you don’t meet all the job requirements, it may still be right for you. It's most important that you:
- meet the essential requirements
- can show you meet the focus capabilities.
You can often develop other knowledge and skills on the job.
Review information on the job and agency
Read as much as possible about the job in the information package and by visiting the agency’s website. This will help you to build your understanding of the job, its context and to get a feel for the work the agency does.
The role description has key information that may help you to decide whether to apply for the job. It explains a job’s:
- purpose
- deliverables
- context (organisational and occupational)
- challenges and interactions.
It sets out the job’s standards for recruitment, including:
- essential requirements
- capabilities (knowledge, skills and abilities) – see NSW Public Sector Capability Framework
- knowledge and experience.
Use our Capability Discovery Tool to examine your knowledge, skills and abilities.
Think about
- Am I still interested after reading all this information?
- Do I need more information before deciding to apply?
Speak to the contact person
Phone or email the contact person – their details are in the job ad. They can help to:
- answer your questions about the job
- give you more information about the agency
- get you the support you need to take part in the process
- talk about job accessibility and flexible working.
Your call to the contact person is an opportunity for you to make a positive first impression, if you do decide to apply for the role.
Think about
- Is the job right for me?
- Do I have the information I need to develop an application?
- Can I show that my skills and strengths suit the job?