Below are frequently asked questions regarding supplemental questions. This information will help you prepare your application packet before submitting it to the Office of Human Resources.
- What are supplemental questions?
Supplemental questions are job-related questions included as part of a vacancy announcement. These questions are used to obtain additional information about an applicant’s specialized experience. Specifically, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities relative to the position for which they are applying. In addition to the minimum qualifications and any other selective placement factors, responses to the supplemental questions are used to determine if an applicant qualifies for the position.
- Where do I locate the supplemental questions?
Supplemental questions are located under the “Questions” tab on the job posting and the electronic version of the job application. These questions are critical to the application process and can be previewed before completing the application. Starting with these questions is a great way to begin your application.
- Do I have to answer each supplemental question?
Yes. Your responses to the supplemental questions play a critical role in how far you progress in the selection process. Failure to respond to all supplemental questions will result in an incomplete application. Incomplete applications are disqualified and do not receive further consideration.
- What is the purpose of supplemental questions?
In addition to your professional background, supplemental questions are used to assess your specialized experience and writing skills, beyond the minimum qualifications.
- What type of information should I include in my responses to the supplemental questions?
Information provided should be specific and descriptive examples of work performed, as it relates to the position for which you are applying. You may refer to experience, education, and/or training, that support your job-related knowledge, skills, and abilities. When appropriate, explain how your education and experience meet the requirements for the position. Your answers should reflect your level of responsibility, contributions, and accomplishments and should include dates and timeframes to allow for the experience to be quantified properly.
- What’s an example of how to respond to the supplemental questions?
Supplemental Question Sample
Position: Program Analyst
Sample Question: Describe in detail your experience in improving the operational efficiency of an organization.
Sufficient Sample Answer: During my tenure at Brand Inc., I held a managerial role from March 2012 to September 2021. In this role, one of my primary responsibilities included seeking out ways to improve Brand’s operational efficiencies. To accomplish this task, I leveraged technology to reduce inefficient processes and, subsequently, improve productivity. For example, our process of onboarding new clients included using a manual system that was antiquated and time-consuming. So, I conducted research, identified a new and efficient software company, drafted a proposal, and submitted it to senior leadership. The proposal was approved and for six months I, along with my team, was heavily involved in the implementation of the new software system, Faster Information Tech (FIT). FIT’s implementation was on time and under budget, which resulted in a return on our investment. The new software automated the client onboarding process and streamlined and reduced our procedure by 50 percent. Also, since this process was now automated, we saw a significant reduction in human errors.
Insufficient Sample Answer: I have over 9 ½ years of experience improving operational efficiency in an organization.
- How long should my response to the supplemental questions be?
There is no strict minimum or maximum length for your responses. However, as a general guideline, a sufficient answer that fully addresses the question typically consists of 3 to 4 well-developed sentences. The exact length will depend on the complexity of the question and whether you need to provide specific examples or detailed explanations. Ultimately, your response should be thorough enough to clearly demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the ranking factor.
- How many supplemental questions are listed on each vacancy announcement?
Each vacancy announcement typically has three supplemental questions but may have more depending on the complexity of the position’s requirements.
- Will the Office of Human Resources help me write my responses to the supplemental questions?
No. Responding to supplemental questions is an independent task based on your experiences. Responses are used as part of the Office of Human Resources's initial review of applications.
- Can I copy information from my application/resume to respond to the supplemental questions?
No. Each supplemental question should be answered with a unique response outlining specific examples of your experience. This may require expanding on information in your resume or application. Resumes provide general information, while supplemental question responses should demonstrate your specialized experience.
- Does my response to the supplemental questions have to be on a separate sheet of paper?
No. Include your responses to the supplemental questions within the space allotted on the application. However, you may provide an attachment if you need more space.
- What should I do if I receive an e-mail stating that I did not respond to one or more supplemental questions?
If the position is still open, you may edit your responses and resubmit your complete application. The steps are listed below:
- Locate the position on the careers page and select “apply.”
- Select “questions” from the options on the left.
- Scroll down to “Supplemental Questions” and edit your responses.
- Select “Proceed to Review” after entering responses.
- Review responses and select “Proceed to Certify and Submit.”
- Enter your initials, then select “Accept & Submit.”