In the public sector, most applications will be competency based. Try to make headings covering each section of the person specification and show how you meet each one from your skills and experience

Keep your additional information section succinct and to the point

• Need to combine empathy and understanding with communication skills
• Be able to apply academic knowledge with excellent analytical skills
• Resilient, calm under pressure and determined to succeed
• Organise a complex workload to meet deadlines
• Interest in people
• Honesty and integrity
• Teamworking
• IT skills

• Keep up-to-date - read the latest research relevant to your area of specialisation. Be clear on any changes in government policy & guidelines and how they affect your profession
• Make contacts - get to know the different members on your team and try to spend time with them if possible. Shadowing is a great way to pick up information/advice and is applicable to both voluntary and paid positions
• CPD - Continuing professional development is essential for all psychologists. Think about linking up with others in your area (online or locally). ClinPsy has a useful forum for potential clinical psychologists. You could upgrade your BPS membership, too, to join regional and Divisional groups
• Research - essential as you move on to postgraduate study, especially if it's a doctorate. Think about potential research topics and how you might develop them. Consider additional postgrad study if you are struggling to find assistant psychologist positions as research experience is a must. Sussex offers an MSc Foundations of Clinical Psychology and Mental Health as a bridge towards doctoral training, for example
• Be creative - this could be anything from ways to make your work more efficient to developing your role in a different way
• Keep a record of the skills you are developing

Being aware of news, developments and issues in the sector can help you at interviews. Here are some news sources to try:

If you need help with your applications, or have an interview to prepare for, we can help:

• Applying for jobs - covers CVs, covering letters, applications, interviews, selections tests and assessment centres
• Getting Advice - we have a range of bookable-in-advance and bookable-on-the-day appointments throughout the week. You can also use Ask a Question for CV/application advice.