Outreach
“You can’t be what you can’t see.”
Marian Wright Edelman
Think about how you joined the Government Communications Service (GCS). Was there someone who supported you along the way? Was there anyone or anything which inspired you in your career?
Outreach raises awareness of GCS and what working in the GCS can look like. Taking many different forms, outreach can inspire and support individuals to join GCS, as well as build understanding and trust in what we do.
On this page, GCS teams share the forms of outreach they have done, the impact they have had, and templates to adapt for your own outreach activities.
Careers Fairs
Attending a careers fair is a good way to provide a lot of people with a snapshot of what it’s like working in GCS. Through posters of your teams’ campaigns, examples of what roles you do, and details of where you advertise jobs, you can build an understanding of what GCS does and the career someone could have in your team.
The MoJ social mobility team arranges dozens of events around the UK every month. To receive fortnightly emails with details of potential events that you or your team could join, sign up to be a Social Mobility Ambassador today!
Going to a careers fair? If you’re a GCS Member you can download a pack that explains the role of GCS, the GCS disciplines and how to enter the profession.
Workshops and Presentations
Running a workshop is a great way to build understanding of GCS. By simulating a real-life scenario you will provide hands-on experience of what it’s like to be a GCS communicator, the roles, challenges, and impact individuals can have. This immersive approach helps to spark their interest, build confidence and inspire them to pursue a career in the field.
Download the workshop template, developed by GCS Advance (GCS Members only)
Many individuals may have little to no experience of Civil Service recruitment. While there is guidance on Civil Service Careers, it may help to provide some guidance during your workshop or presentation, as it gives individuals the opportunity to ask questions.
Download a presentation about GCS, how to enter the profession and Civil Service Recruitment tips and guidance (GCS Members only)
Work Placements
Work placements offer participants the invaluable opportunity to experience what it’s like to work in a professional environment, develop core skills and confidence and build their experience for future applications.
Work experience guidance based on good practice across government (GCS Members only)
Virtual Information Sessions (when filling a vacancy)
A report on social mobility within the Civil Service highlighted that there is a grey area in recruitment, as individuals from a high socioeconomic background are more likely to reach out and speak to the vacancy holder about the role and requirements. Level the playing field by holding a free information session, to provide information on the purpose of the team, the role, where offices are located, how to apply.
Download a template to tailor for your teams (GCS Members only)