Are you currently in a NSW Government Talent Pool and wondering if you’ll ever get that coveted job offer? Or perhaps you’ve recently been told you weren’t successful in landing a specific role, but you’ve been placed in a talent pool instead. Is this just a polite way of saying “thanks, but no thanks”?
Absolutely not!
Being placed in a talent pool is actually a fantastic opportunity to secure a job within the NSW Government. If you sit and wait, you might eventually get an offer. But over the years, I’ve learned a few strategies to increase the likelihood of turning that talent pool placement into a job offer—sooner rather than later.
Don’t waste this opportunity. Leverage all the effort you’ve put into the recruitment process and turn it into a shortcut for your next job. I’ve personally been in talent pools multiple times, and by using the approach I’ll describe below, I’ve nearly always transitioned from the talent pool straight into an ongoing role.
Understanding the NSW Government Talent Pool
Before we dive into the tips, it’s important to understand what the talent pool actually is. When you apply for a role within the NSW Government and make it through the rigorous selection process, but aren’t the selected candidate for that specific position, you may be placed in a talent pool. This means you’ve been assessed as suitable for the role and can be considered for similar positions at the same grade over the next 18 months.
Is Being Placed in a Talent Pool a Rejection?
Many people mistakenly believe that being placed in a talent pool is a gentle way of being rejected. But that’s far from the truth. It’s more like being put on a priority list for upcoming opportunities. The hiring managers already know you’re qualified; they just need the right vacancy to place you in.
Why Being in a Talent Pool is a Great Opportunity
Think about it—you’ve already gone through the application process, nailed the interviews, and proven your capabilities. You’re now on a list of pre-approved candidates who can be fast-tracked into roles without the need for additional lengthy recruitment processes. This is a golden opportunity that you can and should capitalise on.
How to Maximise Your Chances of Getting a Job Offer from the Talent Pool
Here are some tried-and-true strategies to help you move from the talent pool into a permanent position.
1. Stay in Touch with the Hiring Manager
Make sure the hiring manager knows that you’re still interested.
Remember, you’re on the talent pool for 18 months—that’s a long time for the team you applied to not have any turnover. Every 2-3 months, send them a friendly email. Keep them updated on what you’ve been doing professionally, any new skills you’ve acquired, and let them know you’re still keen and available.
Example Email:
“Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. I just wanted to touch base and let you know that I’m still very interested in opportunities within your team. Since we last spoke, I’ve been working on [mention any projects or skills], and I believe these experiences have further prepared me for a role in your department.
Please feel free to reach out if any positions become available.
Best regards,
[Your Name]”
2. Seek Similar Roles and Reach Out Proactively
A big mistake many candidates make when they’re told they’re in a talent pool is treating it as a final “no” and starting their job search from scratch.
You don’t need to go back to square one.
Here’s what to do:
- Search for Similar Roles: Look for jobs that are similar to the one you initially applied for. Focus on the same department or agency, and ensure it’s the same grade.
- Leverage Your Advocate: By suggesting they speak with the hiring manager from your previous application, you’re providing a strong reference and saving them time in the recruitment process.
- Reach Out to the Hiring Manager: When you find a role, contact the person listed as the contact. Here’s what you might say:
“Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I noticed that you’re advertising a role for [Job Title]. I’m currently in the talent pool for this grade after applying for a similar position in [Department/Agency]. I’m very interested in this opportunity and believe my skills and experience align well with what you’re looking for.
I thought it might be helpful for you to speak with [Previous Hiring Manager’s Name], who can attest to my qualifications.
Best regards,[Your Name]”
Best Case Scenario: They might bypass the recruitment process entirely and offer you the position directly from the talent pool. Even if that doesn’t happen, you’ve made a valuable connection that could benefit you in the future.
3. Share Your Talent Pool Placement on LinkedIn
No one does this, but they should! People often think that being in a talent pool is a secret or something not worth sharing because they didn’t get the original job. But it’s actually a great way to let your professional network know that you’re ready and qualified for this level of work.
How to Do It:
- Create a Post: Share an update on LinkedIn mentioning that you’ve been placed in the NSW Government Talent Pool for a specific role or grade.
- Highlight Your Skills: Briefly mention the skills and experiences that got you into the talent pool.
- Express Enthusiasm: Let your network know that you’re excited about future opportunities.
Example Post:
“I’m excited to share that I’ve been placed in the NSW Government Talent Pool for [Job Title/Grade]!
I’m looking forward to potential opportunities to contribute my skills in [mention key skills or areas of expertise]. If anyone knows of teams looking for someone with my background, I’d love to connect!”
By doing this, you increase your visibility. Someone in another team might see your post and think of you when a suitable opportunity arises, potentially offering you a temporary or even permanent role at the higher grade.
Final Thoughts
Being in a NSW Government Talent Pool is more than just a consolation prize—it’s a springboard to your next career move. By staying proactive, keeping in touch with hiring managers, seeking out similar roles, and leveraging your professional network, you can significantly increase your chances of landing that job offer.
Don’t just sit and wait—take action and turn that talent pool placement into your dream job!
