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Personnel Commission How-to Guides » Answer Training & Experience Questions

Answer Training & Experience Questions

Training and Experience application questions are used to precisely assess applicants’ possession of job-related certification and previous experience, training, and education.  It is helpful to learn the best strategies for answering these questions correctly.

How-to-Guide for Answering Training & Experience (T&E) Questions

  • Read and follow instructions carefully. Please note that you need to format your responses to the Training and Experience (T&E) questions using the special instructions provided on the application.  

  • Answer all required questions. Do not leave any blanks. However, if there are questions that do not apply to you, simply respond with “not applicable,” or “n/a.” Do not write “see resume” when completing the application. Remember that your statements and descriptions will be used as part of the selection process to help make an employment decision.

  • Always answer all questions honestly and truthfully. All responses to T&E questions are subject to verification of its accuracy. If you provide false and/or misleading information, you may be disqualified from the application/examination process.

  • Answer the questions neatly. Correct spelling, grammar and punctuation count. Remember that the application is a reflection of you. If your response cannot be read, it will not be scored. Proofread your answers before submitting your application. Once you have completed the application take a moment to thoroughly proofread your answers, checking for all errors, especially typos and misspellings.

  • Tailor your answers to the job you are seeking. Just as with your resume, you want to focus your education and experience to the job at hand. Through this information you want to demonstrate that you are a qualified applicant to fill the position that you are applying for. Give details of skills, accomplishments and experience including previous jobs, education, training, clubs, organizations, and volunteer work.

  • Keep your application consistent with your resume. Make sure all dates, names, titles, etc. on your application coincide with the information on your resume. Any discrepancy will be perceived as an indication of lack of integrity from your part.

  • Take your time and do the best you can.  Remember that the T&E questions are a weighted exam and applicants’ responses to them are meticulously analyzed and scored. Thus, always keep in mind the goal of the entire application: show why you are more qualified than other applicants for the position.