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