Administrative Officer (AO) Review

I was the admin for a team within the civil service, my role initially comprised of managing a centralised inbox but I was soon assigned other tasks according to my competency, including minute taking, reception duties for large scale recruitments and training members of staff.

The main trait I have developed is my confidence, and my ability to work under sometimes stressful circumstances. I learned a lot about the Dept I worked in, and about myself as a person. I was guided in activities I was less confident with, and feel that as a result my telephone manner has improved exceptionally.

I enjoyed the programme exceptional amounts, especially working alongside the staff I met - they guided me through my course and helped me greatly. I enjoyed challenging myself to undertake more duties, and I thoroughly enjoyed training new staff in my position. I did not want the programme to end, and as such have found permanent employment in the same office!

I felt like I was extremely valued within the civil see service, I was often given feedback on my performance in the role, and given multiple Reward & Recognition awards for my work in the role. The staff I worked with were exceptional, and I truly felt like they valued me - especially times when they were asking me for advice etc! My only criticism was that the management wished to keep me and promote me at the end of my programme, but head office said this was not in their budget. ..but I then interviewed and passed at the grade they were going to promote me to.

I felt like the capita programme was well structured, and that the office allowed me to have the time I needed to complete the assigned work. I enjoyed the monthly meetings, as it allowed my advisor to track progress.

I received lots of support, and feel I would not have finished the assigned course early without his support - he always pushed me to succeed without overwhelming me!

I received lots of support, both in work and otherwise. I received support to complete my NVQ, but also support to apply for roles in the Dept, and support for personal matters.

The apprenticeship wage was that of an AO position, so much higher than many apprenticeships, which often have restrictive wages. Costs were met very well.

There were opportunities to take part in charity events for the Dept,and opportunities to socialise outside of the Dept.

Yes

I feel it is a very stable and rewarding job and career if you are willing to work! The benefits are excellent and the work is good!

Read up on the competency framework and use these to shape your answers in both the application and the interview. Try to use "I" words and phrases, rather than describing what your team did.