The personal statement is the part of an application where you write about your suitability for the role(s) you’re applying for. This should be written in full sentences rather than bullet points, and you may have a word limit.
You do not have to repeat things you have already written (e.g. your qualifications).
Internal applications: If you’re applying for an internal role, you cannot assume the selection panel already know anything about you or your achievements. They can only use the information you give them to make their decisions. Write this statement as if the panel members don’t know anything about you or your work!
Using the Person Specification as a checklist, it should be easy for a selection panellist to read your Personal Statement and check how you meet the criteria. Writing your statement in the same order as the Person Specification makes it easier for both of you!
Most panels will use a scoring system, such as this example:
Therefore, a good format is to mention the criterion, then give an example of how you meet it. For example, if the criterion is:
Ability to handle difficult situations with tact and sensitivity
Then you could write something like this, referring to your own experience:
I am able to handle difficult situations sensitively and tactfully. In my current role, I have identified distressed students and approached them privately, ensuring there are no immediate needs before asking about their situation and signposting to the appropriate source of support (e.g. the Disability & Dyslexia Service).
This mentions the criterion (1 point) and gives an example which is clearly linked to it (2 points).
Since you will have to repeat this for all criteria not covered elsewhere in the application, keep it concise: 1-2 sentences per criterion should be enough!
If you can’t fully meet some of the criteria, don’t ignore them. For example, if the criterion is:
Experience of line management or supervision of staff
If you don’t have this experience, you could draw on experience you do have to say something like:
I have not yet line-managed staff, however I do have experience of project management, which has involved delegating work and giving feedback. I have also been responsible for mentoring and inducting new colleagues.
In this example, you may be able to get 1 point instead of 0 for this criterion.
If you are not shortlisted for interview, in most cases you will not be offered feedback. You will probably be sent an automated message such as: ‘Unfortunately, in this instance you have not been shortlisted for interview’.
Internal applications: If you are applying for an internal role, Queen Mary policy states that you should be offered feedback by the Recruiting Manager. If you have the opportunity for feedback, take it! It may help you to be successful next time.