Preparing for a Federal Job Search

This is the first in a series of posts about obtaining a job with the Federal government. Please feel free to post your comments or questions.

  

Introduction

Job hunting can be an arduous task, especially if you are trying to make a career change. Applying for Federal jobs can be time-consuming.  In this and future posts, I'll try to break down the Federal search process into bite-size chunks.

Because my background is in journalism and public relations, these posts will use examples from those job sectors.  However, much of the information is relevant to non-writing/public affairs jobs in the government.

Steps in the Federal Job Search

So you want a job for a Federal agency.  Despite the talk of budget cuts and downsizing, there are Federal jobs to be had.  Some more good news: the Federal job application process is simpler than it was just a year ago.  However, applicants still have to provide detailed information about their experience and relevant skill.  Before you start your search, take the following steps:

1.      Data collection;

2.      Compiling a list of your skills; and,

3.      Developing a list of your accomplishments at each job you have held.

Data Collection

Applying for a Federal job requires supplying a lot of information on each job you have held. You may have to go searching through old files (both electronic and hard copy), to find old pay stubs, annual reviews, job descriptions, congratulatory notes, or “attaboys,” from a former boss or client, etc.  Once compiled, keep this information easily accessible, since you may need it for a background investigation for a security clearance once you obtain a Federal job.  This is also a good time to begin updating contact information for your former supervisors and potential references.

Here’s what you need for each job you’ve had, going back at least 10 years:

•  Job title
•  Duties;
•    Accomplishments; 
•  Employer’s name and phone number (preferably your supervisor, but someone who can verify employment will do);
• Start and ending dates (month and year); and 
•  Salary.

List multiple jobs for individual employers separately.  You will also need a copy your last annual performance review. Be sure to scan it.

If you have graduated from college in the past decade, you should obtain an electronic copy of your transcript.  Obtain documentation for each job-related class or training you have attended.

While you are rooting through your files, also locate any emails or letters from manager, clients, readers, praising your work.  This helps quantify your work. You will use this as you write up your accomplishments.

Duties and Skills

Starting with your current job, list the duties you perform on a regular basis, especially all the activities that are not in your job description.

 Next, write down the skills needed to perform each duty or task.

 Let’s take the example of a regional reporter covering a state congressional delegation for a newspaper.  In order to successfully cover the delegation, you had to learn the Federal budget process, learn how Congress works, and follow issues affecting your region or the committees your delegation serve on.  On a daily basis, you interact with Members and staff of Congress, conduct independent research and analysis and write news articles using Associated Press style. You may also use spreadsheets and databases and tweet on a regular basis.

How does this translate into a resume?   Increasingly, Federal job listings list the key duties the person hired for the position will perform.  Here’s an example from a recent announcement for writer/editor at the Department of Energy:

“If selected for this position, you will:

1.      Research, write, and edit a variety of highly complex scientific materials including articles, speeches, news releases, brochures, scripts, etc.

2.      Review written material for editorial consistency, quality, and compliance with federal civilian style and format requirements.”

Now, do this for each job you’ve held, indicating where you have received a promotion, taken on a new assignment or received new responsibilities.

 Now it’s time for a second go around.

What computer skills do you have?  List them out, including specific software release and level of expertise.  Don’t say Microsoft Office; say Microsoft Office 2007, including specific programs and your level of proficiency with each.

Do you blog? What platform do you use?  What topics do you blog on? How many readers do you have? 

Don’t forget your volunteer work either.

In my next post, I’ll discuss how to write accomplishments.