Success profiles: candidate guide
Information about the Success Profiles assessment framework used for recruitment across the Scottish Government, along with guidance on how to apply.
Our assessment process
What to expect in an interview
Interviews are part of our assessment process and are typically held in person or via video. Their purpose is to assess your suitability for the role.
Interviews usually last 45-60 minutes and involve questions about how you’ve demonstrated the required skills or behaviours. A panel of 2-3 people, familiar with the role or grade, will conduct the interview.
Before attending, review the job advert and prepare examples that show how you meet the criteria. You may also be asked how you’d approach similar situations in the future or reflect on past experiences.
What to expect in an additional exercise
Interviews are only one part of the assessment. You will also complete at least one additional exercise to demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the criteria in the job advert.
Your invitation will explain which selection methods will be used and what to expect on the day. Where possible, the interview and exercise will take place on the same day.
Examples of exercises include presentations, role plays, written tasks, verbal responses, or portfolio reviews.
How will I be assessed
Your interview and additional exercise(s) will be assessed against the Success Profile criteria set out in the job advert.
- once all interviews and assessments are concluded, assessment panels will meet to discuss their evaluation of the performance of all candidates
- you will then be given an overall score and all candidates will be placed in merit order – job offers are made in merit order to the highest scoring candidates
- you may also be offered a place on a ‘Reserve’ list if you performed very strongly but were not the top-scoring candidate, and the terms of your Reserve appointment will be outlined to you when you receive your outcome
Recruitment adjustments
We want people who can bring fresh ideas and approaches to government and we fully support recruitment and workplace adjustments for anyone who needs them.
Read more about how to request adjustments to our recruitment process.
Requesting feedback
Once you have received the outcome of your assessment, we encourage you to ask for feedback as this can help you with your future applications.
When you receive the outcome of your assessment, you will also receive contact details and instructions on how to request feedback.
Contact
Contact the Recruitment Team at: ScottishGovernmentRecruitment@gov.scot