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(BALTIMORE, MD - February 13, 2004) - In this rough economy, more newcomers are interested in working for Uncle Sam. First-timers, though, can be turned off by the perplexing federal application processes. Fortunately following my simple ten step approach can keep you on track. You'll discover both similarities and differences here compared to your job-search experiences in the private sector.
Step #1 - Networking
Similarities: In both sectors, networking initially can be more about gathering info, contacts and leads than getting hired.
Differences: First-timers may feel stumped when trying to locate federal employees to network with. Ask around and persist. Look in your neighborhood, church, ski club, etc.
Step #2 - Becoming familiar with the hiring process
Similarities: Whether you're going private or fed, you'll need to figure out who to work for, relevant job titles, appropriate salaries, and where to apply.
Differences: Federal jobs require much more research because this world is complex and esoteric. Learn about federal agencies at www.firstgov.gov and the often obscure job titles at http://career.usajobs.opm.gov.
Step #3 - Finding vacancy announcements
Similarities: Today's savvy jobseekers look for announcements of openings on the Internet.
Differences: The majority of federal vacancies are on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management site. Typically these announcements are much longer (10 pages is the norm) and harder to understand. It takes time to learn how to sort out the relevant info.
Step #4 - Assessing your core competencies (“soft skills”)
Similarities: “Soft skills” are personal qualities, i.e. being flexible, resourceful, resilient, etc. Playing up soft skills makes you stand out.
Differences: In government, soft skills are tagged as “core competencies.” When HR reviews applications, the CCs are heavily weighed in determining who deserves an interview. Agencies occasionally re-consider the CCs they're seeking, and some feature them on their websites. Example: http://www1.va.gov/visns/visn02/education/hpdm/flexibility.html
Step #5 - Analyzing the keywords in announcements
Similarities: To strengthen resumes, it's wise for applicants in either world to scrutinize listings for the “language of the job” and skills required.
Differences: Sixty percent of federal announcements call for electronic resumes, and more will soon. E-resumes, scored by computer, make knowing the keywords essential. Hunt for terms in the Duties, Qualifications and KSA sections of federal announcements.
Step #6 - Writing your resume
Similarities: Time invested in constructing a strong resume is a good investment.
Differences: Running three to four pages, federal resumes demand more detail. For instance, the Feds often ask that you include social security numbers, addresses, and phone numbers for supervisors from the past 10 years. Look for direction on this in the announcements.
Step #7 - Writing your KSAs and cover letter
Similarities: Identifying your “hard skills,” those you've developed at work or school, is a regular part of job searching. These skills are highlighted in cover letters and during interviews.
Differences: In applying for federal jobs, applicants need to submit KSAs (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities statements) along with their resumes and cover letters. Hard skills are what KSAs are all about.
Step #8 - Applying for jobs
Similarities: Finding an actual job you want to go for can be both exhilarating and nerve wracking!
Differences: Application processes vary in surprising ways from agency to agency. This causes some frustrated first-timers to drop out at Step #8. Stay sane by reading the vacancy announcement very carefully.
Step #9 - Following up on your application
Similarities: Phoning in to check on your application's status can strengthen your position in the game.
Differences: Following up is even more critical in government. One reason is that announcements are sometimes dumped and re-issued. If you don't call, you'd never know to reapply! Leave a strong voicemail 30 days after submitting your application package.
Step #10 - Interviewing for the job
Similarities: In both worlds, success occurs when strong preparation and opportunity meet. So prepare well!
Differences: In the federal market, an invitation for an interview usually appears in writing, via a letter or e-mail. Your interview could be in person, before a panel, or over the phone. Situational interviews (i.e. how would you handle this?) are popular.
While applying for federal jobs is challenging , breaking it down into ten simple steps makes the process manageable. As a federal newcomer, pull from your experience and be patient with yourself while learning the new maneuvers.
Article is based on Kathryn Troutman's book, Ten Steps to a Federal Job. Troutman's Ten Steps to a Federal Job is available at all fine bookstores and at The Resume Place website or office. For further information, to make an order, or to interview Kathryn Troutman, contact Sarah Bluzucki at The Resume Place via phone [(410) 744-4324] or e-mail [sarah@resume-place.com].
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