Civil service application writing help
Everything you need to write a strong Civil Service application: behaviour statements, personal statements, CVs, cover letters, and the sift process explained.
Behaviour statements
Behaviour statements are the most important part of most Civil Service applications. They are assessed using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and scored against the Success Profiles framework.
How to write behaviour statements
A complete guide to the STAR method, word counts, and what assessors look for at sift.
Behaviour statement examples
Real examples for all 9 behaviours, graded from AO to SCS, with STAR breakdowns.
Personal statements
Some roles ask for a personal statement or statement of suitability instead of, or alongside, behaviour statements. These are different documents and require a different approach.
How to write a personal statement
Structure, content, and common mistakes for Civil Service personal statements.
Personal statement examples
Examples by grade and profession, with annotations on what works and why.
Other application documents
Civil Service CV
How to format and structure your CV for Civil Service applications.
Cover letter
When to include one and what to say.
Application form
How to complete the Civil Service Jobs application form.
The sift process
How applications are scored and what happens next.
STAR method
A detailed guide to Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Reasonable adjustments
How to request adjustments during the application process.
Word count guides
Different roles ask for different lengths. Make sure you know the limit before you start writing.