10 selection criteria examples for your resumé

When you’re browsing job ads, you’ll notice that many of them ask you to respond to selection criteria in your cover letter. But what are they exactly? They’re the skills, knowledge and qualifications the employer thinks are essential for succeeding in the role. 

By addressing these criteria in your cover letter, you can improve your chances of advancing to the next stage of the recruitment process. In this article, we explore more about what ‘key selection criteria’ is, look at common criteria on job ads, and provide a selection of criteria response examples you can use as a guide for your cover letters.

What is ‘key selection criteria’?  

Key selection criteria are the qualities, skills, knowledge and experience that a job seeker needs to be able to perform in a role. A list of key selection criteria on a job ad tells you which attributes the employer thinks you need for the position. This list allows hiring managers to efficiently assess the job applications they receive.

As a job seeker, it’s important to pay attention to the key selection criteria of every job you apply for, to figure out whether you’re a good fit for the role. If you match these criteria, you can use the selection criteria list as a guide when preparing your job application, to ensure you address the job role’s essential requirements.

Common types of key selection criteria 

There are different types of key selection criteria, often categorised into three main groups: technical skills, soft skills and personal attributes. By addressing each of the different types of key selection criteria, you can show the hiring manager that you’re suitable for the role.

1. Technical skills 

Technical skills refer to specific knowledge and abilities required to perform particular tasks. These are often acquired through education, training or previous work experience and are directly related to the job’s duties. 

Examples of technical skills include:

• Proficiency in software like Microsoft Office or Adobe Creative Suite
• Familiarity with coding languages such as JavaScript and Python for technical roles
• The ability to operate specialised equipment (tools, machinery, medical equipment, electrical appliances, etc.)

2. Soft skills 

Soft skills are interpersonal skills that determine your ability to work and interact with others. While soft skills are less tangible, they’re just as important as hard skills, and essential for successful teamwork, stakeholder management and problem solving. 

Sought-after soft skills include:

• Communication skills, including both verbal and written
• Leadership and team-building skills 
• Time management and organisational abilities

3. Personal attributes 

Personal attributes are traits or qualities that shape how you approach work and collaboration. These are often reflective of your work ethic, attitude and personal values. 

Examples of valuable personal attributes include:

• Adaptability, or how you adjust to changes or handle unexpected challenges
• Attention to detail, or your ability to do accurate, error-free work
• Resilience shows that you can overcome setbacks

10 key selection criteria examples  

After identifying the job’s key selection criteria, it’s important to tailor your application to suit. Here are some common criteria often listed in job descriptions, along with a few tips for addressing selection criteria, with examples.

Communication skills 

Communication skills refer to your ability to clearly convey information, verbally and in writing, to different audiences. They’re important across a range of roles whether you’re working as part of a team, liaising with clients or customers, or taking on a leadership role.

Here are a couple of examples addressing selection criteria to do with communication.

Example 1:

I have a high level of communication skills, both verbal and written. In my previous role, I was often meeting facilitator and took minutes for my team’s weekly meetings. I also attended departmental meetings, providing updates on project milestones and addressing questions from stakeholders.

Example 2:

During my time as a customer service representative, I demonstrated exceptional verbal communication skills when dealing with guests. In most instances, I was able to diffuse situations by working with the customer to understand their issue and provide a resolution without escalating to my manager.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 

Analytical and problem-solving skills refer to your ability to analyse situations, identify underlying issues, and implement practical solutions. Employees with strong analytical and problem-solving skills can help improve efficiency and productivity in their workplaces. 

Example:

My current role as a project manager requires strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. My responsibilities include identifying bottlenecks and testing solutions to streamline our workflow. 

Ability to work well under pressure 

When you work well under pressure, you’re able to maintain performance standards and manage priorities in challenging situations. These skills are important in the workplace for meeting deadlines while maintaining work quality. 

Example:

My current role as a graphic designer frequently involves juggling competing projects. To keep my work quality high, I have developed strategies to help me prioritise, and I truly enjoy the excitement and energy of working in a fast-paced environment. 

Demonstrated leadership skills 

Leadership skills refer to your ability to guide, motivate, and inspire a team toward achieving organisational goals. Whether you’re looking to move into a leadership role or wanting to take the lead on a project, leadership skills can help advance your career.

Example: 

I have proven leadership skills, demonstrated in my last two roles, where I have led teams to exceed their KPIs. I currently manage a five-person team, delegating tasks, overseeing work, and encouraging collaboration, to meet and exceed project milestones. I have the lowest staff turnover rate of any team leader in my company. 

Commitment to continuous professional development 

Many employers value continuous professional development. Showing a commitment to lifelong learning shows that you’re proactive in developing your skills and knowledge, and will work to keep yourself an asset to your employer. 

Example:

I am dedicated to continuous professional development, actively seeking opportunities to improve my skills and knowledge in my field. I regularly attend workshops, webinars and industry conferences, and have a list of recent certifications. 

Technical proficiency 

Technical proficiency involves possessing specific technical skills or knowledge relevant to the role. This varies depending on your industry, with each role requiring specific skills and knowledge. 

Example:

I regularly update my skills through online courses and on-the-job training. I believe it’s important to stay informed about advancements in my field and also to contribute my own knowledge to help others. I keep up to date by subscribing to industry newsletters and attending local workshops. 

Ability to work as part of a team 

Effective collaboration involves working with others to achieve common goals. It’s important for all workplaces, because it means you’re an easy person to work with. Ability to work as part of a team includes things like supporting colleagues and keeping an open mind about others’ perspectives.

Example:

I believe I work best as part of a collaborative team, paired with other professionals who inspire and support each other. I have years of experience working in teams with diverse backgrounds and from different disciplines, and genuinely enjoy the social aspect of collaborating with others.

Effective time management 

Time-management skills are highly valued by employers. They refer to your ability to prioritise tasks and use your time efficiently to meet deadlines. Not only does this help improve the quality of your work, but it can also help reduce stress. 

Example: 

Through years of being a private tutor, I have developed excellent time-management strategies, allowing me to book up to 20 students per week without sacrificing the quality of my teaching. I have many long-term students that I have helped throughout entire degrees to graduation.

Attention to detail 

Attention to detail means performing tasks with precision and accuracy. By paying attention to the finer details, you can reduce the chance of errors and produce higher quality work. 

Example:

I am detail-oriented and take pride in my work, paying close attention to small details and often picking up small errors that other people miss. 

Adaptability and flexibility 

Flexibility is a personal attribute that is highly valued among employers, so it’s often worth demonstrating your capability to adjust to new challenges, work in unpredictable conditions, and adapt to changes in the workplace.

Example:

I am a flexible and adaptable worker who welcomes new challenges. I’m always open to learning new skills and processes, as demonstrated by my role as unofficial team trainer in my current position. I’m always the first to volunteer upskilling my co-workers.  

As a job seeker, it’s essential to identify the selection criteria listed in a job ad, and address each point in your job application. Pay close attention to what the hiring manager is asking for and adjust your resumé and cover letter to include these specifics. By matching your application to the selection criteria, you’ve got a better chance of making it through the application stage to an interview.  

FAQs 

What is the best selection criteria? 

The best selection criteria will depend on the role as well as the objectives and values of the hiring company. The best selection criteria to have are the ones that match the requirements and objectives of the job, as listed in the ad. 

What should be included in selection criteria? 

Selection criteria should include specific attributes, qualifications, skills and experience deemed essential or desirable for a job. The selection criteria should address all relevant aspects of the role: qualifications, experience, skills and personal attributes. 

What are the five selection criteria?  

Selection criteria typically fall under five categories, including:

1. Qualifications
2. Experience
3. Technical skills
4. Soft skills
5. Personal attributes

How do you answer key selection criteria in a cover letter? 

When answering the key selection criteria in your cover letter, use the STAR approach. The below example of key selection criteria responses for a cover letter demonstrates how you can use this method: 

• Situation: describe the situation where you used the skill/attribute.
• Task: follow that with the task or the role you played.
• Action: explain the actions you took to address the situation or task.
• Result: detail the outcome or impact of your actions, emphasising any achievements or successes.

How many kinds of selection criteria are there? 

There are a number of different types of selection criteria that fall into broad categories: qualifications, experience, technical skills, soft skills and personal attributes. Some positions might also have selection criteria that relate to ethical values or employee background.

What are selection criteria used to assess? 

Hiring managers use selection criteria to assess whether a job seeker’s qualifications, skills, experience, knowledge and personal attributes match the requirements of the position. 

For example, if you’re applying for a government position, common government selection criteria examples include:

• A bachelor’s degree or higher
• A clean background check (no criminal history)
• Working with Children Check (for the education sector)
• Citizenry
• Experience working in a large, complex organisation
• Strong computer literacy (for office positions)
• Stakeholder management

What are some examples of selection criteria? 

Here are some examples of selection criteria:

• Qualifications: possesses a relevant degree, certification or qualification in the field.
• Technical skills: proficient in programming languages, including Python, Java and C++.
• Personal attributes: analytical, adaptable, empathetic, creative, self-motivated.

How do you answer key selection criteria questions?

Answering key selection criteria requires a structured approach to ensure you provide relevant examples that demonstrate your suitability for a role. Start by understanding the selection criteria and identifying examples that match. From here, you can use the STAR approach to tailor your answer. Provide clear evidence of your accomplishments and keep your response concise.  

How can I spot key selection criteria hidden within a job listing? 

Selection criteria are either listed separately in a job ad or written into the job description. Look for recurring phrases or keywords, like ‘required skills’, ‘ideal applicant’, ‘ability to…’, and ‘proficient in’. This language often indicates key selection criteria.