Applicants should start preparing for State applications and interviews by understanding the competencies.
Applicants are encouraged to carefully review the SCS Competency Model to become familiar with how the State communicates
behaviors, skills, knowledge, and abilities.
You will begin to see competencies listed in job postings.
Understanding the desired competencies for the position will help you demonstrate how your skills, knowledge, abilities,
and experience match the position.
Conduct a self-assessment to identify your strengths and areas of improvement in relation to the SCS Competency model
and the competencies required of the job for which you are applying.
Be honest about your capabilities and use the opportunity to upskill any gaps in your skill set.
During the application phase, applicants will be required to self-assess their skill levels through supplemental questions.
Completing the self-assessment beforehand, will make it easier to complete the supplemental questions.
Competency-based interviews often focus on past behaviors as indicators of future performance.
Be prepared to share real-life examples that highlight your ability to meet the competencies desired for the position.
If you do not possess a competency desired for the position, demonstrate a committment to continuous learning and development.
If there are competencies where you feel you can improve,
express a willingness to acquire new skills and highlight instances where you have successfully done so in the past.
It may also be a good idea to share your plan of action to gain the necessary skills.
During interviews or interactions, ask questions about the competencies and how they contribute to success in the role.
This demonstrates your interest in understanding the agency's expectations and your commitment to meeting them.