Civil Service sifting - big variation in scores (G7 posts)

[Levithecat]

Hopefully not too outing but I’m feeling really glum and know there’s a fair few CS here. I’m current CS but on Mat leave and have been applying for G7 posts - there are a few campaigns at the moment in my dept.

I applied for two almost identical posts and put in almost identical applications. I got good scores for one, was interviewed and just missed the grade but got positive and helpful feedback. I’ve just had an email to say the second was unsuccessful and I’ve logged on to see a row of 2s in my feedback.

I haven’t been in the service long and haven’t done recruitment so don’t know how it works, but just can’t see how I can score so differently. My boss had reviewed my examples and thought they were solid. It’s hard to talk it through with someone while I’m on leave and I will when I can, but can anyone shed any light?

I had really hoped to have another stab at an interview now I’ve been through the process once.

I would have thought an SCS would be able to help you get your examples until shape - although I doubt they sift EO level applications. Do you know anyone at HEO or SEO that does?

Sifting is usually done by staff in the department you'd be working for - usually the interview panel sift unless it is a bulk recruitment campaign.

There isn't anywhere to formally get your behaviours assessed - and anyway it wouldn't be a guarantee or we'd all be doing it! I'm happy to look them over if it would help - I'm G7 and have sifted for EO, HEO and SEO vacancies. PM me if so.

Oh that would be great if you wouldnt mind having a look at my behaviours. Thats so kind of you. At my work there is only one HEO and they dont have any sifting skills. There are only a very small number of CS at my work and most of us are Administration Officers. Many thanks but how do I private message you?

At the top of my posts on the same line as my username you’ll see message poster is one of the options at the end of the same line.