Topic 1: Written Applications
What are Graduate Portfolios?
Graduate Portfolios are three types:
- Self Representational Portfolios – mainly a showcase portfolio that represents graduates personal expression of many aspects of interest;
- Reflective Portfolios – mainly integrates graduate attribute achievements; and
- Certification Portfolios – mainly relates to graduates specialist skills and know-how.
How to craft Graduate Portfolios?
Graduate Portfolios crafting: requires development and preparation
- Covering Letter
- Resume
- Selection Criteria
- Interview/s
- Psychometric Test
Is it important to write a Covering Letter?
A Covering Letter demonstrates your proficiency in written communication skills
Covering Letters must include:
- Address and date on the application;
- Title and reference number of the position advertised;
- Mention of information in the application;
- Highlights of what attracts you to the job;
- An outline of your skills, abilities, competencies and previous experience if any; and
- A closing statement and mention of your availability for an interview.
Covering Letters must not include:
- Statements such as 'I don't..' and 'I cannot...';
- A negative tone; and
- Words such as – unfortunately, unexpected, not motivated, not interested etc.
Record your reflections to start building your personal branding story. Download a template in Word that you can use to complete this activity. You may also create your own template or use an ePortfolio platform.
What is a good Resume?
A good Resume must state:
- Contact details;
- Career objectives/statements;
- Education and other qualifications;
- Skills summary (general, technical and soft skills);
- Experience (work and volunteer);
- Projects completed or current projects;
- Awards/achievements;
- Languages known; and
- Referee details.
Does your resume contain all the elements of a good resume?
Record your reflections to start building your personal branding story. Download a template in Word that you can use to complete this activity. You may also create your own template or use an ePortfolio platform.
What is the relevance of Selection Criteria?
Selection Criteria are important to make an assessment of the candidate and suitability for the job.
Components of Selection Criteria:
- Essential – must have.
Example: Skills in computer literacy - Desirable – expected to have.
Example: Demonstrated understanding of trends in the ICT (Information and Communication Technology) sector
What are the common Selection Criteria?
Common Selection Criteria
- General knowledge – show basic understanding
- Knowledge of – from experience
- Sound knowledge of – good knowledge
- Thorough knowledge of – robust grasp of the criteria
- Demonstrated ability – relate to specific examples
- Ability to acquire – demonstrate capacity to learn
How to respond to Selection Criteria
Selection Criteria Responses:
- Must relate to real-life or work situations;
- Format responses using the STAR framework;
- Articulation of the responses; and
- Close attention to criteria.
How would you address the Essential Selection Criteria?
Complete the template to record your reflections on 'essential' selection criteria
Record your reflections to build your personal branding story. Download a template in Word that you can use to complete this activity. You may also create your own template or use an ePortfolio platform.
How would you address the Desirable Selection Criteria?
Complete the template to record your reflections on 'desirable' selection criteria
Record your reflections to build your personal branding story. Download a template in Word that you can use to complete this activity. You may also create your own template or use an ePortfolio platform.