The client contacted Select Resumes after a series of unsuccessful applications towards educational leadership positions, despite being experienced and accomplished in this regard. The position she was wanting to apply for was a perfect fit for her and it was necessary to put together an educational leadership key selection criteria. However, the client lacked the confidence to present her experience in a way that best reflected the status of the position. The application required applicants to address four criteria within a two-page statement, as follows;
- Demonstrated teaching competence and capacity to provide curriculum leadership in the area of special education leading to the achievement of quality learning outcomes for all students.
- Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills and the capacity to develop and sustain productive relationships within and beyond the school community.
- Capacity to use analytical skills to contribute to educational outcomes at the school level.
- Capacity to manage effectively human, financial and physical resources to deliver high quality organisational outcomes.
The client had some strong teaching examples, in addition to leadership examples. However, given the nature of the position, I suggested that she focus on recent leadership examples. The client had used the STAR (Situation, Task, Action and Result) format before and was familiar with the concept. Having already prepared the examples she wished to include, the client explained in detail each idea, and I was able to ask questions where appropriate. This allowed me to not only fully understand the concepts she delivered, but also tease out her role in achieving the result. As such, I was able to present a detailed, yet succinct response to the four criteria, which really highlighted what my client would bring to the position. I am really looking forward to seeing how this client’s application proceeds, as her passion for the role shone through each of her examples, and I believe I was able to capture that and present it in her Key Selection Criteria.