Entering the Public Sector

In these austere times, even with a graduate degree, finding a career in the public sector can still be challenging. So what can you do to stand out?

We have all come to accept public-sector cuts as a bitter fact. The sector has seen many redundancies recently, but the motivation to contribute to society still attracts thousands of people into public-sector roles every year.

However, the recent period of upheaval has changed the way recruiters look for talent in this industry. Whether in health, education, social work, or defense, all public-sector service areas are looking for candidates who can perform strongly and deliver results quickly.

"Because of cuts across the sector, managers need new hires to get up to speed immediately. They want candidates with past experience and the ability to make a positive impact right away," said Andy Robling, who works at Hays, a UK specialist in public-sector recruitment.

Return on Investment

Kris Harris, a public-sector specialist and senior manager in management resources at Robert Half, adds that candidates need to prove their return on investment to prospective employers. "Employers are looking for people who can improve efficiency, deliver value, and increase profitability," he said.

For anyone hoping to enter the public sector, the ability to understand an organization’s goals and objectives is essential. Paul Hemsworth, who specializes in public-sector recruitment at the UK recruitment agency Resourcing Group, believes that "this business awareness of organizational objectives will increase a candidate’s value within the organization."

Before any interview, candidates should know what their role requires and how they can meet the employer’s expectations. Robling said, "There will be demand for those who can show commitment to the organization and believe in its goals and vision."

Work Experience

If that commercial mindset is supported by relevant private-sector experience, the candidate will certainly be a favorite among public-sector recruiters. "Private-sector experience is highly desirable. For example, many public-sector organizations welcome accounting professionals from private or publicly listed companies, as long as that person can help them manage spending and improve the bottom line," Harris said.

Although strong communication skills, customer focus, and relevant work experience remain important qualities when narrowing down the right candidates, the fact is that recruiters are looking for something extra when reviewing applicants.

Hemsworth believes that, with the increasing use of competency-based interviews, recruiters now expect candidates to demonstrate what they achieved in previous roles, rather than simply the responsibilities assigned to them. "Candidates now need to show results and achievements, as well as clearly articulate their capabilities," he said.

Change is another factor shaping public-sector recruitment patterns. Today, the ideal candidate is someone who can adapt to change with ease. "In the current economic climate, the public sector is undergoing major change. Those who can adapt to changing conditions while maintaining team spirit and focus will be the additions any team is looking for," Harris said.

Key Skills and Qualifications

Multitasking is also a major asset. Recruiters look for candidates with a broad skill set that can be used across departments. "Individuals who can take on multiple roles and extend their skills into more areas will be increasingly in demand," Harris said.

If you want to move up the ladder in the public sector, higher qualifications are definitely important. Compared with someone who only has a bachelor’s degree, a candidate with a master’s or doctoral degree will find it easier to stand out and apply for senior roles. According to Hemsworth, a second degree opens up "more senior management training programs." He advises, "Whether sponsored or not, the key is to make sure your master’s or doctoral course is relevant to the role you want to apply for."

Harris adds that it is even better if aspiring candidates obtain professional qualifications. "It is more valuable for candidates to earn professional qualifications or certifications in fields such as finance, accounting, human resources, or information technology," he said.

Public Sector

The bar is now higher for all applicants. If you can adapt to change, have a well-developed commercial mindset, and know how to deliver results, this is the ideal field for you.