When applying for jobs, it’s important to show employers how your skills and experiences match what they’re looking for. Using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to prepare examples from your DofE journey can help show your strengths in applications, cover letters and interviews. Here are some examples:
1. Teamwork
“To complete our DofE expedition, our team of six had to work together. Not just during the testing three days and two nights out in the countryside but also to plan our route before and to create our presentation after. At one point, we deviated from our path and got lost. I suggested we use our map and the landscape around us to find out where we are and navigate back to our route. I made sure everyone had a say to make sure we agreed where to go. Thankfully, we quickly made it back to the path we were following. We learnt to listen to other’s views and keep each other’s spirits up.”
2. Self-motivation
“For my DofE Physical section I wanted to improve my running ability. This involved running on my own and as part of a club, week in, week out, whatever the weather. There were times I wanted to skip a session but I’m glad I kept up my motivation. As well as being fitter than I’ve ever been, I also got to represent my school in regional running competitions. My DofE experience fuelled my initiative and drive which I believe puts me in a great place to take on this role, where self-motivation is a key requirement. The fact that I’ve continued running since achieving my Award demonstrates my continued commitment and passion to tasks and challenges, which I set myself and others set me.”
3. Resilience
“It rained throughout my three-day DofE expedition, making it difficult to set up camp and fully testing our waterproofs. We had to be resilient, or we wouldn’t have got through. We took our minds off the rain by singing songs and focusing on the end goal. This experience has helped me deal with knockbacks in all elements of life and I believe it will enable me to be resilient and keep focused when managing the inevitable demands and challenges placed on this role.”
4. Leadership
“I developed my leadership skills during my DofE residential as I helped at a children’s activity camp. I supported and stood in for the Outside Instructor at various points in the week, which involved giving the children direction and making sure that they carried out the activities correctly. The children enjoyed their camp and even asked me to come back for the next one! Taking the lead in the workplace will now not faze me and I’m happy to put myself forward when required.”
5. Positive attitude to work
“My DofE has helped me see how hard work can pay off, not just for yourself but for others too. I was always keen to go to my charity shop volunteering because I saw its impact. While I developed a range of skills, I also supported the charity in raising money for its vital cause, so much so that I have continued to volunteer after achieving my Award. I believe that this positivity is essential to a successful office environment and this is something I can offer due to my DofE experience.”
6. Commitment
“It took me over four years to achieve all three DofE levels while juggling my academic studies. It taught me that if I commit to something, then I should see it through and the benefits will be far reaching. My DofE Awards show that if I was the successful candidate for this role, I would be 100% committed to the job and each individual task given to me.”
