What does “explain how you did it” mean in Civil Service application feedback?
Understanding “Explain How You Did It” in Civil Service Sift Feedback
Hello,
I recently failed the sift for a HEO role. The only useful feedback said that my examples described what I achieved but needed to explain more about how I did it.
I thought I had already covered my actions. For one example, I wrote that I improved a reporting process, consulted stakeholders and reduced delays. I also gave the final result.
I am unsure what extra detail the panel expected. The word limit was tight, so I could not describe every meeting or task.
What does the word how usually mean in this type of feedback, and what should I add next time?
Quick Answer
The panel wants the decisions and methods between the problem and the result. Explain the information you used, the options you considered, the specific steps you took and the reason for the approach you chose.
Read our HEO Personal Statement Help for the full guidance.
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How I Would Add the Missing “How” Without Wasting Words
Continue reading to see which action details usually earn marks and how I would rewrite the reporting-process example.
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