Category: Candidate

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Candidate

Why Short-Term Roles Can Be the Perfect Career Reset

The new year is all about fresh starts. For many, that could mean rethinking your career. Maybe you’re ready for a change, are feeling stagnant, or just want to try something different. But making a big change can feel risky, particularly if you’ve already put down roots in a particular speciality. So, what’s the smart way forward?

Temporary roles offer a way to explore, expand, and reach further without locking yourself into a long-term commitment. There are often opportunities in areas you wouldn’t have thought of  that offer new perspectives and experiences, without having to learn a whole new skillset. Here’s why temporary opportunities make sense:

 

Discover What Fits

If you’re feeling antsy but feel like you’ve already locked yourself into a career niche, short-term roles let you explore different environments and job types before making a big decision. It’s career exploration with less pressure.

 

Broaden Your Horizons

Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? Temporary positions often require quick adaptation, which means you’ll be able to expand your knowledge quickly. This hands-on experience can boost your confidence and allow you to apply your wealth of experience and growth to new ideas and processes.

 

Expand Your Network

Every new role introduces you to fresh contacts who can open doors to future opportunities. Networking happens naturally when you step into new spaces. By connecting with new people with different interests, you can start to broaden your view of the job market, learn from others, and build on ideas.

 

Keep Moving Forward

While you plan your next big step, temporary work keeps you active, earning, and building experience. It’s progress without pause, allowing you to move forward without fear.

 

If your New Year’s resolution is to try something new or make a change, short-term opportunities could be the perfect starting point. By working with CBR Recruitment to secure future work, you can feel safe knowing you won’t be left in the deep end. Reach out to us at 02 6103 7000 or hello@cbrrecruitment.com.au to discuss how we can help.

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Candidate

The Role of a Scribe in Public Sector Recruitment

When most people think about public sector recruitment, they picture interviews, resumes, and reference reports. But behind the scenes, there’s a role that ensures fairness and accuracy throughout the process. Often overlooked, scribing is a critical function that demands skill, good judgment, and professionalism.

To give you an insider’s perspective, we spoke with Anne Burnett, one of our scribes at CBR Recruitment since 2023. Here’s what she shared.

 

What Does a Scribe Do?

A scribe documents the discussion during interviews, ensuring decisions are recorded clearly and fairly. This involves summarising key points, interpreting feedback, and linking responses to selection criteria or to frameworks such as the Integrated Leadership System (ILS).

Anne explains that “it’s definitely not just transcribing. You have to listen, understand and put the information together.”

 

Skills of a Good Scribe

Anne highlights three essential skills:

  1. Strong Writing Skills

“Writing skills are the most important thing.” The ability to interpret information and provide meaningful feedback is vital, as is the ability to write concisely.

  1. People Skills

“You need to make people feel comfortable and relate to them.” Building positive relationships with panel members can completely change the dynamic.

  1. Active Listening

“Not just hearing, but really understanding what’s being said… and what’s implied.”

Confidence matters too. Anne notes that scribes sometimes need to gently guide panels back on track without overstepping.

 

Why Choose Scribing

Flexibility is one of the biggest advantages. Anne explains, “I love being able to work when I want. I don’t have to stick to nine-to-five. And the work is interesting… I’ve learned so much about different roles in the APS.”

She can also own her work. “My product in the end is my product, and I want it to be good.”

 

Scribing is far more than note-taking. It’s about ensuring transparency, fairness, and clarity in recruitment decisions. For those with strong writing skills, a keen ear, and the ability to work well with people, scribing offers flexibility and a unique window into the public sector.

If you’re a job seeker looking for a diverse role where you can combine your writing people skills, scribing might be the perfect fit. Contact us to connect and begin your journey to becoming a scribe with CBR Recruitment.

 

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Candidate

Supporting your APS Career Journey

supporting your APS Career Journey

At CBR Recruitment, we encourage professionals navigating careers within the Australian Public Service (APS) to rethink how they define success. Rather than viewing career progression as a rigid climb up a ladder, consider it a dynamic journey shaped by growth, adaptability, and purpose.

In the APS, where structured classifications and promotion pathways are common, it’s easy to fall into the mindset that upward movement is the only measure of success. But real career satisfaction often comes from lateral moves, skill development, and meaningful contributions; not just titles.

Why the Ladder Model Can Be Limiting

The traditional “career ladder” suggests a linear path, but even in government few careers follow such a predictable trajectory. Many APS professionals spend years building expertise in roles that don’t necessarily come with a new classification, yet those experiences are foundational for future leadership or specialist opportunities. Success in the APS can mean many things: contributing to impactful policy, supporting community outcomes, or maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Ask someone who’s spent decades in public service what they value most, and you’ll likely hear stories of collaboration, resilience, and purpose not just promotions.

Reframing Your Career as a Journey

Thinking of your career as a journey allows for flexibility, exploration, and personal growth. Whether you’re moving between agencies, exploring new functions, or deepening your expertise in a current role, each step contributes to your professional story.

    A journey mindset means:

  • You’re open to new opportunities, even if they don’t come with a higher classification.
  • You measure success by impact, satisfaction, and alignment with your values.
  • You embrace learning and development as ongoing, not just a means to promotion.
  • You understand that career fulfilment often comes from unexpected directions.

This doesn’t mean abandoning ambition it means broadening your perspective. It’s about being intentional, curious, and resilient. And sometimes, it’s about seeking guidance to help you navigate the next step.

Whether you’re exploring a move within the APS, considering a shift in careers, or simply want to clarify your next step, CBR Recruitment is here to help. Our team understands the unique structure and culture of public service careers and offers tailored support to help you. Contact us today on 02 6103 7000. or by emailing hello@CBRrecruitment.com.au to discuss how we can support your next career move.

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Candidate

5 Tips for executive-level interviews

Confident executive professional preparing for a high-level job interview, reviewing strategy notes.

Based on our experience many senior executives lack contemporary interview experience, either because they have secured roles though their contacts and networks, or by being consistently promoted internally within their organisation.

Interviewing for a leadership role is a unique challenge that requires more than just experience and credentials. It’s about showing up with insight, presence, and a clear sense of how you will contribute to the organisation’s strategic direction. Here is how to prepare for these high-stakes conversations with clarity and confidence.

1. Dig deeper than the basics

While every interview calls for research, executive-level roles demand a more nuanced understanding. Go beyond the mission statement and explore the professional journeys of the leadership team. What patterns do you notice? Where do your experiences align, and where do you bring something fresh and valuable? This kind of insight helps you speak directly to the organisation’s current dynamics.

2. Lead with self-awareness

Confidence at this level isn’t about bravado; it’s about knowing your strengths and how they complement others. Think of it as steady assurance: you understand your capabilities, you respect the expertise around you, and you’re ready to collaborate. This kind of presence is magnetic in leadership settings.

3. Champion your value

No one can articulate your impact better than you. Be ready to share how your leadership has made a difference, whether through transformation, growth, or resilience. Frame your contributions in a way that connects with the organisation’s goals, and don’t shy away from highlighting what sets you apart.

4. Prepare for a strategic dialogue

Executive-level interviews often feel more like a conversation between peers than a traditional Q&A. Expect open-ended questions that explore your values, the way you think, your approach to challenges, and your leadership philosophy. And just as importantly, come with thoughtful questions of your own. Questions relating to culture, measures of success and current organisational challenges are usually well received.

5. End with intent

As the conversation wraps up, reinforce your enthusiasm and summarise how your experience aligns with the organisation’s strategic objectives. A strong finish leaves a lasting impression and sets the tone for what could be a powerful partnership.

If you’re looking to refine your approach, CBR Recruitment is here to help. Reach out to us at hello@CBRrecruitment.com.au for personalized guidance, strategic coaching, and deeper conversations about how you can approach executive-level interviews with impact and confidence.

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Candidate

Shifting Careers Without Starting Over: 5 Practical Steps

Shifting Careers Without Starting Over: 5 Practical Steps

Changing careers can feel overwhelming—especially if you’ve spent years building your expertise in one field. But a shift doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch. With the right approach, you can build on your existing skills and experience to move into a new role or industry.

1. Start by Mapping Your Transferable Skills

Before making any decisions, take stock of what you already bring to the table. Many skills — like stakeholder engagement, project management, communication, or analytical thinking are valuable across industries.

How to do this:

  • Review your past roles and list out your core responsibilities and achievements.
  • Identify which of those skills are relevant to the roles you’re interested in.
  • Use job ads or position descriptions to compare your experience with what’s commonly required.

2. Explore Without Committing

You don’t need to resign from your current job to explore new directions. In fact, testing the waters while still employed can help you make more informed decisions.

Ways to explore:

  • Take short online courses or attend industry webinars.
  • Volunteer for cross-functional projects at work.
  • Shadow a colleague or friend in a different field.
  • Attend meetups or networking events in your area of interest.
  • Consider a secondment.

3. Understand the Market

Before making a move, it’s important to understand what roles are in demand, what skills are valued, and what the typical pathways look like.

What to research:

  • Job boards and industry reports
  • LinkedIn profiles of people in your target roles
  • Salary benchmarks and qualification requirements

4. Clarify Your Motivations

Knowing why you want to change careers is just as important as knowing what you want to do next. Are you looking for more flexibility? A greater sense of purpose? Better pay? A new challenge?

Reflect on:

  • What energises you at work
  • What you want more (or less) of in your next role
  • Your long-term personal and professional goals

5. Talk to CBR Recruitment

If you’re unsure how your experience translates to a new industry or role, we can help. Our consultants work with you to:

  • Review your resume and identify transferable skills
  • Understand your career goals and motivations
  • Explore alternative roles or sectors that align with your strengths
  • Provide honest feedback and practical next steps

We take a personalised approach to career transitions, helping you build a bridge into your next opportunity rather than making a leap of faith. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, we’re here to help you take the next step with confidence. Contact us on 02 6103 7000 or by emailing hello@CBRrecruitment.com.au

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Candidate

How a Cover Letter Should Compliment Your CV

Cover letter should compliment your CV

When it comes to applying for a job, your CV is undoubtedly your most powerful tool a concise summary of your experience, qualifications, and skills. But what about the cover letter? Too often overlooked or hastily written, a well crafted cover letter is your opportunity to add depth to your application and create a compelling narrative. At CBR Recruitment, we believe that the best applications are those where the CV and cover letter work in tandem each playing a distinct but complementary role. Here’s how you can make sure your cover letter enhances your CV rather than repeating it.

1.Tell the Story Behind the CV
Your CV is all about facts — dates, titles, qualifications, and achievements. The cover letter gives you the space to explain why those facts matter. Use it to tell the story behind your career journey, your motivations, and why you’re interested in the role. Think of it as the narrative that links the dots on your CV. If your CV shows a career change or a gap in employment, your cover letter is the place to provide context.

2. Address the Selection Criteria or Role Requirements
One of the most effective ways to tailor your cover letter is to write directly to the selection criteria or key position requirements listed in the job ad. This shows the hiring manager that you understand exactly what the role demands — and that you’ve taken the time to demonstrate how you meet those needs. Candidates who clearly align their cover letters to the selection criteria stand out early in the selection process. It shows professionalism, attention to detail, and strategic thinking.

3. Highlight Relevant Experience
Rather than listing all your experiences again, focus your cover letter on the most relevant aspects of your background for the role at hand. Show the hiring manager you understand what the job requires and explain how your experience makes you a great fit.

4. Demonstrate Your Enthusiasm
A CV is rarely the place for emotion or personal tone — but a cover letter is your chance to express genuine enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Show that you’ve done your research, understand their mission or values, and explain what draws you to the opportunity.

5. Showcase Soft Skills and Personality
Some of your best assets might not fit neatly into a CV. Your communication style, adaptability, leadership qualities, or collaborative mindset can come through more clearly in a letter. Use it to inject some personality and give the employer a sense of who you are beyond the bullet points.

6. Create a Strong First Impression
In many cases, your cover letter is the first thing a recruiter or hiring manager will read. A well-written, tailored cover letter shows professionalism, attention to detail, and effort — all qualities employers value highly. It also provides evidence of your writing skills.

In Summary: Your CV and Cover Letter Are a Team
Think of your cover letter as the voice of your CV — it gives your qualifications meaning, highlights your most relevant experiences, and shows why you’re a standout candidate. When they work together, they make a far more persuasive case than either can alone.

If you’re looking for expert advice on crafting your next application — or seeking your next opportunity — get in touch with CBR Recruitment on 02 6103 7000 or by emailing hello@CBRrecuitment.com.au. We’re here to help you stand out from the crowd!

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Candidate

Shifting Your Focus When Facing Redundancy

Shifting Your Focus When Facing Redundancy

Many Australian Public Service (APS) employees are currently considering what a potential change in government might mean for their roles. Historically, changes in government can result in shifts in policy, departmental restructures, and in some cases, job losses. If you’re an APS employee facing redundancy, it’s essential to understand your options, especially if you’re subject to an exclusion period that prevents you from reapplying for APS positions immediately.

Understanding the APS Exclusion Period

When an APS employee takes a voluntary redundancy, they are typically subject to an exclusion period, which prevents them from rejoining the public service for a set period – often between 12 to 18 months (depending on length of service). This can create uncertainty for those who want to continue working but find themselves temporarily locked out of APS roles. However, this does not mean your career needs to be on hold. Several viable pathways are to consider contracting or permanent roles in other sectors, so you can continue using your skills, maintain financial stability, and stay engaged in the workforce.

Why Contracting is a Smart Move

If you’re facing a voluntary redundancy, contracting offers several advantages:

  1. Stay in the Market – Contracting keeps you engaged in meaningful work, helping you maintain and expand your professional network.
  2. Financial Stability – Many contracts, especially in government, offer competitive hourly or daily rates that can be financially rewarding.
  3. Skill Development – Working across different projects and subject matter enhances your expertise, making you more valuable when you’re eligible to return to APS roles.
  4. Flexibility – Contract roles often provide more control over work-life balance, allowing you to choose assignments that fit your lifestyle and career goals.
  5. Pathway Back to APS – While you may be excluded from ongoing and non-ongoing APS roles during the exclusion period, being engaged on a labour hire arrangement is a good solution during your exclusion period.

Permanent Roles in Other Sectors

In a time of change it can also be a great opportunity to explore roles outside of Federal government. In the ACT we are in a unique position where there are opportunities in the private sector, within tertiary education, and also in ACT government. Skills in particular areas such as project management, policy development, procurement, HR, and finance are highly transferable to these sectors.

Speak to an HR Specialist

While facing redundancy can be worrying, it can also be an opportunity to explore new career paths and build a more flexible and rewarding career, to develop new skills and to maintain financial security while navigating the APS exclusion period. If you’re facing redundancy and need guidance on transitioning into contract work, CBR Recruitment is here to help. Get in touch with us today on 02 6103 7000 or by emailing hello@CBRrecruitment.com.au to explore your options and take the next step in your career.

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Candidate

Understanding the Integrated Leadership System (ILS) – without the jargon!

Understanding the Integrated Leadership System (ILS) - without the jargon!

The Integrated Leadership System (ILS) is the framework used in the Australian Public Service (APS) to assess a candidate’s ability across five different areas. In short, the higher the level of the position, the greater the expectation in each of these areas. It’s important to know that the ILS is not only used for APS recruitment but also for promotions and performance discussions, so in each of those scenarios, you need to be able to demonstrate your competence against each aspect of the ILS at the appropriate classification.

Let’s break down what each aspect of the ILS actually means in simple terms:

1 – Supports Strategic Direction / Shapes Strategic Thinking
This capability is all about your ability to demonstrate how you align your work with the broader organisational goals, along with your ability to make informed decisions, anticipate future challenges, and guide others towards a shared vision and government priorities. For lower-level classifications, it’s important to think ahead, anticipate future challenges and opportunities, incorporate long-term strategic planning into decision-making, and solve problems creatively by applying innovative thinking to complex policy and operational issues. In higher level leadership focussed classifications, this can be expanded to understanding the broader context, where you might be required to interpret the government’s priorities and departmental objectives, contribute to national outcomes and public value, and drive innovation where you champion new approaches, encourage continuous improvement, foster a culture of learning and adaptability, and provide frank and fearless advice.

2 – Achieves Results
When we look at the need to achieve results, it’s really about delivering high-quality outcomes by being proactive, accountable, and focused on achieving the department’s and / or the government’s broader priorities. Regardless of your classification, as a public servant you need to be able to show that you deliver on commitments, maintain focus and drive, manage time and resources and take ownership where you accept responsibility for decisions and actions, following through to ensure the job is completed successfully. In leadership roles, this responsibility also covers the outcomes of your team or section, and it’s all about achieving tangible outcomes for the Australian public.

3 – Supports / Cultivates Productive Working Relationships
In any role, it’s important to be able to work collaboratively with others and foster a collaborative, inclusive, and respectful workplace that supports teamwork, stakeholder engagement, and shared success. You need to be able to demonstrate that you can build strong relationships, where you engage effectively with colleagues, stakeholders, and the community to achieve organisational goals, work collaboratively where you contribute to or lead team efforts, support colleagues, and value diverse perspectives. In leadership roles, there is generally some additional complexity that can involve managing conflict constructively, where you navigate disagreements and underperformance professionally, foster solutions that maintain positive working relationships, and demonstrate reliability, integrity, and a commitment to supporting others in a shared mission.

4 – Displays / Exemplifies Personal Drive and Integrity
This is a key requirement for public servants due to being accountable to the Australian public. It’s important to be highly ethical, and act with integrity, where is it expected that you uphold the APS values at all times, follow ethical guidelines, and make fair, transparent decisions. This also covers taking responsibility for your work and the work of your team, learning from your mistakes and remaining accountable at all times. Often in leadership roles, your self-reflection ability will be of vital importance, as this is a key expectation of contemporary leaders within the APS.

5 – Communicates with Influence
All APS employees are expected to be able to communicate effectively and ensure that both written and verbal communications are clear, persuasive, and tailored to influence decision-making and achieve policy or operational outcomes. Think about delivering clear and concise messaging, ensuring it is engaging and persuading to present ideas and policy recommendations effectively to gain support from stakeholders, actively listening where you seek input, considering different perspectives, and adapt to the audience where you tailor your communication style and approach depending on senior leaders, colleagues, or the public. In leadership roles, the complexity obviously increases, where you may need to provide concise briefings to a Minister, use your judgement to deliver specific messaging with limited time and resources, and effectively represent your department or the government to complex external stakeholders.

To meet with a CBR Recruitment Consultant to discuss the intricacies of the ILS, please give us a call on 02 6103 7000 or email hello@cbrrecruitment.com.au

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Candidate

Charting Your Career Path: A Step-by-Step Guide

Charting Your Career Path: A Step-by-Step Guide

Navigating your career can feel overwhelming, but a structured approach can help you make informed decisions and set a clear path for growth. By identifying your values, assessing your skills, and setting targeted goals, you can build a career that aligns with your aspirations. Here’s how to get started.

1. Define Your Core Values

Understanding what truly drives you is essential to making career choices that lead to satisfaction and success. Reflect on these key questions:

  • What activities energize and motivate me?
  • What qualities and priorities shape my ideal lifestyle?
  • What are my non-negotiables in a job?

By answering these, you can determine whether you’re on the right path or if it’s time for a change.

2. Assess Your Skills and Experience

Beyond personal preferences, your skill set plays a crucial role in determining viable career options. Take stock of your abilities by considering:

  • Your qualifications and relevant experience
  • Strengths and transferable skills
  • Major career achievements
  • Areas that need improvement or further development

A clear understanding of your skills will help you identify opportunities where you can excel and areas where further training might be beneficial.

3. Establish Your Career Direction

With your values and skills in mind, start exploring industries and roles that align with your interests. Consider:

  • The types of organisations or sectors that appeal to you
  • Positions that excite and challenge you
  • How these choices align with your personal goals
  • Any gaps in skills that may need to be addressed

 

4. Seek Constructive Feedback

We don’t always see our strengths and weaknesses clearly, so gathering input from colleagues, mentors, and supervisors is invaluable. Ask questions such as:

  • What behaviours should I refine to advance my career?
  • If you were in my position, what would you focus on improving?
  • What abilities are essential for transitioning to my desired role or industry?

Their insights can uncover new opportunities and highlight areas for growth that you may have overlooked.

By taking charge of your career path, you position yourself for meaningful growth and long-term success. Every step you take should bring you closer to a fulfilling career where you thrive and make a lasting impact. If you’re looking for one-on-one career or development advice, please contact us at hello@cbrrecruitment.com.au or call 02 6103 7000.

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The Do’s and Don’ts of Australian Public Service Interviews

The Do’s and Don’ts of Australian Public Service Interviews

Interviews are a pivotal step in landing a new role, and the key is to demonstrate that you’re the right fit for the job, the team, and the organisation. Here are essential do’s and don’ts to help you make the best impression.

The Do’s:

  1. Do Your Research – Before the interview, research your audience. Learn about the organisation’s culture, the reason behind the vacancy, and what they expect from the role. This will help you tailor your responses and show you’ve done your homework.
  2. Prepare Targeted Responses – Tailor your answer specifically to the job, department, and selection criteria. Highlight the aspects of your background that directly relate to the role and make sure the panel understand why you provided your example.
  3. Answer Behavioural Questions with “I” – In behavioural or situational questions, interviewers want to know what you’ve personally achieved. Avoid saying “we” when describing actions—focus on what you did.
  4. Give Detailed Answers, But Be Concise – Avoid one-word answers; they won’t give the panel enough information to assess your abilities. On the flip side, don’t ramble. Introduce your response, elaborate, and then wrap it up, preferably using a structure such as the “STAR” (situation, task, action, result) method.
  5. Ask Thoughtful Questions – At the end of the interview, you’ll likely be asked if you have any questions. Avoid asking questions about things you should already know, like the duties of the role or general information about the company. Instead, ask about the team, the goals of the team or section, or opportunities for professional development.

The Don’ts:

  1. Don’t Be Too Vague – Failing to provide specific details when discussing your experience or abilities can leave interviewers unsure about your competence. Always back up your statements with concrete examples.
  2. Don’t Oversell Yourself – Embellishing the truth or overselling your abilities can backfire. Be honest about your experience and what you can bring to the table.
  3. Don’t Criticize Past Employers – Never speak negatively about former employers, managers, or colleagues. It can make you seem difficult to work with and raise red flags for the panel.
  4. Don’t Focus on Personal Benefits – It’s best not to ask about benefits such as salary, leave entitlements, or other perks unless the panel raises these topics first. Asking about these too early can make you seem more interested in the benefits than the job itself.

Interviews are a balance of preparation, self-awareness, and communication. By understanding what interviewers are looking for, preparing thoroughly, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can approach your next interview with confidence and increase your chances of success. Navigating your next career move can be a daunting prospect, particularly if you have worked in the same position or organization for a significant period of time. If you’re looking for interview training or a better understanding of the interview process, please contact us at hello@cbrrecruitment.com.au.