Each year thousands of students apply to the Civil Service Fast Stream but an alternative way to join the Civil Service is by applying for, or being offered, a direct entry job.
What are direct entry jobs?
Direct entry jobs are vacancies that are advertised all year round. The Civil Service are typically looking for candidates to start these jobs within 1-3 months. The Civil Service offers many opportunities – over 1,100 jobs were being advertised on 22 July!
And once you are working for the Civil Service you will be developing your network and understanding of the sector.
How do I decide which job is right for me?
Deciding your criteria will be key to narrowing down the jobs available. To do this you might decide to use the Civil Service career matcher for suggestions on career areas. Plus, you could research Civil Service departments and professions which may be of interest to you.
You could also narrow your search in Civil Service jobs by using the advance search which will give you different filters: location, type of role, department, salary, job grade, working patterns, contract type.
In terms of job grade, if you are about to graduate, or are a recent graduate, then we would suggest roles such as an Administration Officer, Executive Officer and Higher Executive Officer as a starting point.
Once the job adverts are displayed you can check the individual job criteria. The advert will then explain what the job is required to do, so you can decide if it is suitable for you and if so, make an application.
Any tips on making Civil Service applications?
The how to apply page explains how the Civil Service recruit using Success Profiles, plus tips on writing CVs and personal statements. There is also information on nationality rules and making reasonable adjustments.
What support can Careers offer?
You are welcome to book a 1:1 appointment on MyJobsOnline to discuss any stage in your application, including Civil Service career direction, advice on enhancing an application or a mock interview.
A 10 minute screencast ‘Direct entry into the Civil Service, an alternative way into central government’ is also available on Careers 24/7 Blackboard.
Author: Vicki Wiles, Careers Consultant