Get That Government Job

This review gives a verdict on the book based on three options:

• Bypass: Little of value. Give it a miss.
• Borrow: Some value but insufficient to warrant a purchase so borrow from a library.
• Buy: Valuable ideas and information, a worthwhile investment.

Title: Get That Government Job

Subtitle: The secrets to winning positions with selection criteria

Author: Dawn Richards

Publisher: Woodslane

Nationality: Australian

RRP: $39.99

Flavour: This book, written by a careers consultant, caters for people who know and don't know selection criteria. It provides practical information with plenty of examples across jurisdictions and icons that direct the reader to Very Important Points, Periolous Pitfalls, The Web and the accompanying CD.

Chapter headings are:

• Understanding the selection process
• Getting started on your application
• Translating selection criteria into simple English
• Marketing yourself to the employer
• Polishing up your writing
• Preparing your resume
• Writing your selection criteria statement
• Finalising your application
• Winning the job at interview

Plus three appendices: Career resources, Searching for vacancies online, How to use the CD.

The most valuable material in this book is the examples given, information about online recruitment systems and the additional examples provided on the CD..

There is no index or bibliography.

Verdict: This book complements rather than replaces similar resources and makes a useful addition to the range of examples available to help applicants prepare quality applications. A useful book to borrow or buy.

Dr Ann Villiers, learning guide, professional speaker and author, is Australia's only Mental Nutritionist® specialising in mind and language practices that help people build flexible thinking, confident speaking and quality connections with people. Visit www.mentalnutrition.com to learn more about Mental Nutrition. Visit www.selectioncriteria.com.au for free resources unlocking the mysteries of public service jobs.