Making Effective Decisions at EO level needs clear evidence, not a list of qualities. This guide explains the criteria, shows how to build a focused statement and gives you complete examples to study before writing your own.
On this page
What is Making Effective Decisions?
Making Effective Decisions is about reaching a timely and fair conclusion using reliable information. At EO level, the assessor needs to see your reasoning, the people you consulted, the options and risks you considered, and how you explained the decision.
What are the criteria at EO level?
The EO scoring guide has the following criteria. Your statement does not need to repeat this wording. It needs to make each point visible through the actions you took.
- take responsibility for making effective and fair decisions, in a timely manner
- analyse and research further information to support decisions
- talk to relevant people to get advice and information when unsure how to proceed
- explain how decisions have been reached in a clear and concise way, both verbally and in writing
- demonstrate the consideration of all options, costs, risks and wider implications, including the diverse needs of end users and any accessibility requirements
How to structure your statement
Keep the background short so the assessor has enough room to see your judgement and actions. A 250-word statement normally needs most of its words in the action section.
| Part | What to show |
|---|---|
| Situation | The service, task or challenge and why it mattered. |
| Task | Your own responsibility, authority and the required outcome. |
| Action | The decisions, checks, communication and practical steps linked to the criteria. |
| Result | A clear outcome, measure, learning or sustained improvement. |
Join our careers service to read more...
If everyone knew the best tricks and tips then they would no longer work! That is why the best guidance is for members only.
Subscribe to open the locked section on this page and get access to the full Civil Service Careers premium library.
Get help with applications, interviews, behaviours, personal statements, CVs, tests, workplace problems, promotions, and career decisions, all written for people who want a better result.
Already subscribed? Log in