Learn how to effectively address decision-making, results, computer skills, and communication criteria in job applications. This guide offers practical examples and strategies to demonstrate your strengths, including how to demonstrate sound judgment, deliver measurable outcomes, highlight proficiency in digital tools, and communicate effectively in various professional contexts for your next criteria.
Result Focused Selection Criteria Example
In addressing a significant challenge within my current role, I identified that our section's existing Testamentary Trust Will offerings were falling short of meeting clients' needs and market expectations, leading to decreased revenue and inefficiencies in our workflow. To address this issue, I undertook a thorough analysis of our competitors' offerings to benchmark our services against industry standards.
Drawing upon this research, I revised and enhanced our Testamentary Trust precedent, ensuring it addressed all current legal issues and client requirements. Additionally, I diversified our product offerings by creating three distinct options at different pricing levels to cater to a broader range of clients. To effectively market these new products, I prepared comprehensive supporting documents and guides for both clients and internal staff, facilitating clear communication and understanding of Testamentary Trust options. I conducted training sessions for solicitors and paralegals to familiarise them with the new products and streamlined workflow processes.
Collaborating closely with the precedent manager, I implemented these changes into our workflow, optimising efficiency and reducing drafting time. As a result of these efforts, each Testamentary Trust matter now delivers significantly higher revenue, with an average increase of $1,100 to $2,700 per file, while requiring less time input from our team. This initiative not only addressed the initial challenge but also positioned our section for greater success and client satisfaction in the future, demonstrating the impact of problem-solving in driving positive outcomes within the organisation.
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Organisational Skills Selection Criteria Example:
In a highly time-sensitive situation, I was tasked with taking Will instructions from a terminally ill client who was not expected to live for more than 24 hours. Understanding the urgency of the matter, I immediately took action to meet the tight deadline. First, I cleared my schedule for the day to dedicate my full attention to the task. I then conducted a thorough review of my workload for the next 24 hours and coordinated with my support team and colleagues to redistribute responsibilities and ensure all urgent matters were addressed in my absence. Implementing a strategy to minimise distractions, I placed myself on 'do not disturb' mode to maintain focus.
Additionally, I adapted the Will drafting process to accommodate the urgent deadline, streamlining the workflow to expedite the drafting and review process. Despite the intense pressure, I remained composed and efficient, prioritising the client's needs above all else. As a result of these efforts, I was able to return to the hospital the same day, approximately six hours after our initial meeting, to have the client sign the Will. Although the client passed away four days later, I had successfully fulfilled their final wishes and provided them with peace of mind by ensuring the Will was sorted before their passing. This experience reinforced the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and maintaining composure under pressure in delivering timely and effective services to clients, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Decision Making Selection Criteria Example
To address inefficiencies observed within the initial consultation process upon joining Smith Street Lawyers, I took proactive steps to implement change. Recognising that clients were not being adequately onboarded, resulting in prolonged meetings with solicitors and administrative delays, I initiated discussions with my director to propose a new procedure. Collaborating closely with receptionists, paralegals, and solicitors, I solicited input to draft a comprehensive Workflow Procedure aimed at streamlining the onboarding process from the initial client contact to the first meeting with the solicitor.
Following approval, I organised training sessions to ensure all staff members were well-versed in the new procedure. Over the ensuing months, I closely monitored the implementation and efficacy of the new process, making necessary adjustments based on feedback and observations. As a result, the new procedure has been successfully integrated into our operations, leading to a notable reduction in client appointment times by 10-15 minutes and a significant improvement in the success rate of clients paying their initial consultation invoices, which increased from approximately 80% to 100%. This initiative not only addressed the identified inefficiencies but also contributed to enhancing client satisfaction and operational efficiency within the firm.
In my recent role, I was responsible for drafting a variety of reports to support organisational and legal functions. This included preparing comprehensive Minutes of Meeting for our fortnightly practice meetings to ensure accurate documentation of discussions and decisions. Additionally, I compiled a detailed Report tracking referral leads from new clients, aiding in the assessment of our marketing strategies and client acquisition efforts. I also produced a debtor management report, outlining outstanding debts and recommending actions to be taken for effective debt recovery. Additionally, I crafted a Proposed Marketing report/schedule for our section, detailing planned activities and initiatives to enhance our visibility and brand awareness. In previous roles I conducted post-closure file review reports, analysing past matters to identify areas for improvement, actions taken, and suggesting strategies to mitigate risks in future matters. Through these reports, I contributed to informed decision-making, strategic planning, and continuous improvement within the organisations which I worked for.
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Computer Skills Selection Criteria Example:
In my professional capacity, I have utilised a range of computer programs to support various aspects of legal practice and organisational tasks. Lawmaster has been instrumental as a comprehensive practice management software, facilitating efficient file management, trust accounting management, and matter reporting. Microsoft Word has been indispensable for drafting legal documents, ensuring precision and adherence to formatting standards. For matters related to deceased estates, I have leveraged Microsoft Excel for the drafting of Asset & Liability Statements, ensuring accuracy and thoroughness in financial documentation.
In addition, Microsoft PowerPoint has been instrumental in the preparation of engaging and informative presentations for both in-house training sessions and community information seminars, enabling effective communication of complex legal concepts. Lastly, I have used Microsoft Publisher for designing and creating visually appealing advertising flyers for events organised by the Queensland Law Association, enhancing our outreach efforts and event promotion. Through proficient use of these software programs, I have effectively streamlined processes, improved communication, and contributed to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of business operations.
Interpersonal and Communications Skills Selection Criteria Example:
Recently, I encountered a client who exhibited signs of distress during the scheduling of her initial consultation regarding her Will. Sensing that something was amiss, I reached out to her before our meeting and discovered that she had recently undergone a traumatic domestic violence experience. Understanding the delicacy of her situation, I immediately reassured her and took action to accommodate her needs. Recognising her reluctance to leave her home, I cancelled our office appointment and instead arranged to meet her at her residence after hours, ensuring her safety. Despite the extended duration of our meeting, I remained fully present, providing empathetic support, and addressing her concerns regarding an upcoming court date.
Understanding the time-sensitive nature of her circumstances, I expedited the drafting process for her Will and personally delivered the documents to her, alleviating her fears about postal delivery. Additionally, with her consent, I connected her with appropriate non-legal support resources. Following our meeting, I continued to check in with her to ensure her well-being. As a result of these efforts, the client was able to finalise her Will in a timely manner, providing her with a sense of security and relief during a challenging period.
On another occasion I worked with a couple from Nigeria who sought assistance in drafting their Wills. Their cultural background presented a unique challenge, as they wished to adhere to their cultural norms by leaving their wealth solely to their sons, contrary to the typical practices under Australian law. Recognising the importance of cultural sensitivity and legal obligations, I approached the situation with empathy and professionalism.
During our initial meeting, I actively listened to their instructions without letting my personal opinions interfere, understanding the significance of their cultural beliefs. Subsequently, I undertook extensive research on African customary law and sought guidance from legal authorities to ensure I could navigate the situation respectfully while fulfilling my legal obligations. In our follow-up meeting, I delicately communicated the legal risks associated with their desired course of action, ensuring they comprehended the implications fully. Their written confirmation of understanding and willingness to proceed despite the risks validated the effectiveness of our communication and the trust they placed in me. The clients expressed their gratitude for my non-judgmental approach, highlighting their initial apprehensions about seeking legal assistance.
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