Video: Learn the Federal Job System

Ten Steps to a Federal Job

How to land a job in the Obama Administration

By Kathryn Troutman, President, www.resume-place.com and Author and Publisher, Ten Steps to a Federal Job

First-time Federal job seekers interested in working for federal government can be confused by the federal application process, but if you are determined, you’ll discover many similarities to looking for a job in the private sector. Follow these 10 steps to make your government job search more manageable – just be sure you know what you may need to do differently to land a job with Uncle Sam.

Step 1: Network
First-timers should talk to everyone who works in the government to see what agencies are hiring and when new jobs could be posted.

Step 2: Become Familiar with the Hiring Process
Understanding the hiring process for a federal job requires a little more research on your part, because job postings often seem to be written in each agency’s own unique language. What job title is right for you? What “grade” or salary is right for your experience and education?

Step 3: Look for Openings on USAJOBS.gov
Aspiring federal employees have the benefit of one-stop shopping: USAJOBS, the official federal jobs website of the US Office of Personnel Management.

Step 4: Assess Your Soft Skills (Core Competencies)
Stand out with extra skills. Are you flexible, resourceful, resilient, creative and a team player? Add this!

Step 5: Analyze Keywords in Announcements
Keywords are found in the vacancy announcements in the Duties, Qualifications and KSA (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities). Add these to your federal resume.

Step 6: Create Your Federal Resume – Preferably in the Outline Format
Federal resumes demand more detail and run three to four pages. Add keywords and accomplishments to get Referred, Selected for an Interview and Hired.

Step 7: Write Your KSAs and Essays for Questionnaires
When applying for federal jobs, you need to submit KSA statements and answer self-assessment questionnaires along with your resume.

Step 8: Apply for Jobs
Application processes vary in surprising ways from agency to agency. Read the “how to apply” instructions carefully.

Step 9: Follow Up on Your Application
Follow-up is even more critical in government. You can check status online usually at www.usajobs.gov.

Step 10: Interview for the Job
In the federal market, an invitation for an interview usually appears in writing, via a letter or email. Your interview could be in person, before a panel or over the phone. Behavior-Based interviews are popular.