Comments on: Addressing confusing selection criteria.

Question: Addressing confusing selection criteria.

Jimbob — Thu, 19 Jan 2006 01:08:22 -0800

In job applications, I'm having trouble addressing the selection criteria - in particular, the one wanting to know my "Knowledge and commitment to OH&S standards and Equal Employment Opportunities Policy".

Post PhD, I'm applying for a lot of jobs, and they all seem to have this as a "necessary" selection criteria. Note that this is not in the fields of human resources or management, but in biological science jobs. Apart from stating that I've undergone OH&S training, and understand the EEO policy, what am I supposed to write? The job specifications make it clear that they expect selection criteria to be addressed with "examples" of my experience. I've never hired anyone - I've spent the last three years measuring plants and sampling soil - how am I supposed to have experience in equal opportunity employment?

By: Mijo Bijo

Mijo Bijo — Thu, 19 Jan 2006 01:12:58 -0800

You've probably been in a working environment that involved these standards. Write how you felt they were applied, fairly or unfairly, and how you would apply them if you were in a situation to do so.

By: londonmark

londonmark — Thu, 19 Jan 2006 02:55:03 -0800

The buzzword this week is diversity -- as in, recognising and appreciating the differences between people, including obvious things like racial and gender differences, and less obvious ones, like sexuality and religion (even diet, apparently). Just slip it in a few times. e.g. you've worked with people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse experiences, and recongnise the value and benefit of a diverse working environment.

By: Wolof

Wolof — Thu, 19 Jan 2006 03:02:05 -0800

londonmark substantially has it, just add that you understand and support OHS initiatives for a safe workplace for all and mention your OHS training. You don't have a current first aid certificate, do you? Worth mentioning.

By: Jimbob

Jimbob — Thu, 19 Jan 2006 03:09:08 -0800

I think I've got it sussed...I've found some evidence of dealing with diverse cultural backgrounds in the past. No I don't have a first aid certificate - but I have a fire warden training certificate...and I got my bronze medallion in lifesaving :)