Our Success Stories

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Private Industry / Contractor to Federal Jobseekers

PRIVATE SECTOR BUSINESS ANALYST SCORES 99 ON APPLICATION, GETS REFERRED

January 2012

Jobseeker: PI to Fed

Previous Job Title: Research Analyst

New Job Title: Program Analyst, GS-9/11

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was a young business analyst with strong international and private sector experience. We supported his several Federal job applications with resumes that showcased his accomplishments and skill sets with an emphasis on program and project management and concrete results. Client was referred to at least one Federal Program Analyst job with the Justice Department, and received an application score of 99 for a DHS position.

PRIVATE SECTOR ENTREPRENEUR INTERVIEWED FOR STATE DEPARTMENT JOB

November 2011

Jobseeker: PI to Fed

Previous Job Title: Private Sector Operations Manager

New Job Title: General Services Officer, FP-04, US Department of State

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was a first-time Federal job applicant. We leveraged his strong background in logistics, management, operations, and information technology, extensive international background, and demonstrated entrepreneurial streak to prepare a resume for his use in applying to State Department and USAID positions of interest.

CLIENT LANDS INTERVIEW FROM FIRST APPLICATION USING RESUME PLACE RESUME

11/9/11

Jobseeker: Private Industry to Federal

Previous Job Title: Director of Disability Services

Referred To and Interviewed For: Management and Program Analyst, DHS, GS-0343-13

Strategy/Process: This client was recently unemployed after a nearly 20-year career in higher education and healthcare settings, specializing in disability services. To focus her resume toward the Management and Program Analysis series for Federal positions, we highlighted her experience in conducting research, assessments, and surveys as well as her contract management and communication skills. The client applied for a position with her new resume and was selected to interview for that position.

“I was pleased with the interview but I know from his conversation that there were other strong candidates and indeed I did not get a job offer. Based on that experience, I thought that I would contact you to see what your thoughts are for trying it again. I still have the beautiful resume that you developed…I loved your work and would be grateful to have your expertise behind me again.”
–S.S.

Writer/Coach: Pamela Sikora

PRIVATE SECTOR MANAGER SELECTED AND HIRED FOR ARMY MANAGER JOB!

11/4/11

Client: H.C. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Private Industry to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Program Manager, private sector company

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Operations and Plans Manager, NH-0301-04/04, Department of the Army

Result: Selected and Hired

“Kathryn / Lex / Chris:

Thank you so much for your help in the government job search! I was selected for the subject government position yesterday. I called to thank Lex personally, and wanted to do the same for everyone on the team!”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

REFERRED, INTERVIEWED, AND HIRED IN 6 MONTHS

11/4/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Unemployed for nearly one year

New Job Title: Information Technology GS-2210-12, CPB

Strategy/Process: After being out of work for almost a year – with a background in program management and IT sales in the private sector, client was looking for a stable situation in the Federal Government. This non-veteran understood that he needed some assistance in writing a resume that would focus on his translatable skills.

Of course he was eager to find a job, but knew that if he approached it practically, it would be worth the effort.

In late March he began submitting and by early November he started his new job.

Hi Dottie, I have some good news! I was selected for one of the CBP positions I interviewed for and will be starting Monday. Your hard work on the resume and KSAs led to 5 interviews with different CBP offices, and one of them was a “good fit.” I plan to work with you again as my career with the government develops, and have referred you and the Resume Place to colleagues who are considering government service. Thanks Again! –B.C.

Writer/Coach: Dottie Hendricks

HIRED! A LIFE CHANGER FOR CLIENT!

11/2/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal (Former Military Spouse)

Previous Job Title: School Teacher

New Job Title: Program Analyst, GS—0343-11

Strategy/Process: Client wanted to move out of the stressful education job. She has a Masters degree but needed assistance in showing how her teaching skills could be utilized in a program manager type position.

“Hello Dottie, Thank you for the superb resume. I tweaked the resume you wrote for me at the end of June and landed a job as a Program Analyst. This is a life changer for me, I doubt I would have even been considered if it wasn’t for your work. This was the second job I applied to with the resume you wrote.” –D.C.

Writer/Coach: Dottie Hendricks

MORTGAGE LOAN APPROVAL OFFICER HIRED FOR FEDERAL JOB

10/13/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Mortgage Loan Approval Officer

New Job Title: Auditor, Defense Contract Audit Agency

Strategy/Process: Client is a Mortgage Loan Approval Officer with a background in Auditing. Writer wrote resume emphasizing knowledge of mortgage-related consumer protection laws for Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Writer explained in great detail federal resume writing process, taking client through step by step development. Client decided to write second resume, with writer providing edit/critique. Resume went through several drafts, with writer giving pointers on subject-matter focus, keywords and how to emphasize the most relevant information. Client applied for an Auditor position, was referred to the hiring committee within days, and is now working as an Auditor at the Defense Contract Audit Agency.

Writer/Coach: Rod Jussim

PRIVATE SECTOR APPLICANT HIRED WITH $12,000 SALARY INCREASE!

9/22/11 & 10/15/11

Client: W.R. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Private Industry to Federal

Previous Job Title: Benefits Specialist, private sector company

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Human Resources Specialist, GS-0201-09/12 Architect of the Capitol; HR Specialist, GS-12, Administrative Offices of the US Courts

Result: Referred, Interviewed, Hired

“September 22, 2011:

Hi Lex, you’ll be glad to hear that I have an interview on Monday with the Architect of the Capitol. I’m so excited. Thank you so much for all your help!!

October 15, 2011:

Hi Lex,

I have awesome news but first let me tell you…after your help with applying for the HR position with the Architect of the Capitol, I was contacted for an HR vacancy with the Admin Offices of the US Courts. Because you helped me with my resume, I was easily able to provide it to them on the spot when they asked for it. I interviewed with them on Thursday and they offered me the job on the spot at $90,000. That’s a $12,000 salary increase!

I’m so excited, and truly could not have done it without your help.

Thank you!!”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

CANCER SURVIVOR TRANSITIONS FROM CONTRACTOR TO FEDERAL EMPLOYEE, DAYS BEFORE CONTRACT ENDS

8/29/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Secretary (Office Automation), Management Consulting Inc., contract with U.S. Navy

New Job Title: Secretary (Office Automation), U.S. Navy, Naval Oceanic Office (NAVOCEANO)

Strategy/Process: The contract under which this client worked with the U.S. Navy was coming to an end and a limited number of positions were becoming federal jobs. With the prospect of losing her salary and benefits August 31, this single mom and recent cancer survivor hired The Resume Place to give her an edge over the competition. We crafted her resume to match the position description point-for-point, using keywords to show her extensive experience doing the exact same job that was being posted. After an initial rejection due to the number of applicants with veterans’ preference, her resume was considered in a subsequent review and she was hired. Her first day in a federal position was August 29, two days before the contract expired.

Writer/Coach: Pamela Sikora

RESUME PLACE SERVICES PREPARE CLIENT AND INSTILL CONFIDENCE

8/24/11

Client hired as a hospital administrator for the Veteran’s Administration. Client actually applied before hiring The Resume Place, and was hired after applying with her old Resumix Resume.

Challenge: This client does big things, such as developing an entire healthcare system to serve a specific segment of the population. The client’s challenge was explaining what she does. Accomplishments were hard to point out, since the entire context in which she works is her accomplishments.

Strategy/Process: Client discussed career path accomplishment with The Resume Place President Kathryn Troutman and Certified Federal Resume Writer/Coach Rod Jussim. Client found experience of speaking with The Resume Place solidified her ability to describe her accomplishments. Client specifically said that speaking with Ms. Troutman, Mr. Jussim, and The Resume Place team allowed her to go into a performance-based interview prepared and confident.

Client also pointed out that she was engaged in an interview for a separate position, when the interviewer stopped the discussion, offered her the job and asked when she could start. She turned down that position.

Writer/Coach: Kathryn Troutman / Rod Jussim

PRIVATE BUSINESSMAN REFERRED TWICE TO USDA

8/16/11 & 9/21/11

Client: J.B. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Private Industry to Federal

Previous Job Title: Founder, Owner, Business Manager, Barker Ventures, Inc.

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Support Services Specialist, GS-0342-07, USDA // Office Manager, GS-0303-05, USDA

Result: Referred to Hiring Official for both jobs

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

FOREIGN AFFAIRS EXPERT REFERRED FOR STATE DEPARTMENT GS-14 JOB

8/12/11

Client: S.M. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Private Industry to Federal

Previous Job Title: Independent Consultant, Foreign Affairs/Finance/Banking field

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Foreign Affairs Officer, GS-0130-14, Department of State

Result: Referred to Hiring Official

“Couldn’t have gotten this far without you!”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

REFERRED AND INTERVIEWED FOR GS-13 PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST AT NIH

7/19/11

Client: F.E. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Private Industry to Federal

Previous Job Title: Healthcare Technical Writer and Research Analyst, private sector company

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Public Affairs Specialist, GS-1035-13/14 MP, NIH

Result: Referred and Interviewed

“Hi Lex. I had a second interview at NIH yesterday. The resume you put together a few months ago really paid off! Thank you.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

QUALIFIED FOR 20 POSITIONS AND REFERRED TO 15, LANDS JOB WITH AIR FORCE!

6/29/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

New Job Title: GS-7, Transportation Assistant (Passenger), US Air Force

Strategy/Process: “From mid-February, 2011 to May 15, 2011 I applied to over 50 announcements through USAJOBS. I was found qualified for about 20 and referred to about 15 of those. I had one telephone interview for a position with the Navy in California.

I received a tentative offer from the US Air Force on May 17, 2011. I accepted the position of Transportation Assistant (Passenger), GS-7 at Patrick AFB, FL.

I applied to probably 10 positions prior to talking with a colleague about the services The Resume Place provides. He suggested I look at the website. After filling out the information requesting a free estimate of services, Chris Troutman called me and explained to me what I needed to know. I also received an email from Sarah Blazucki. Sarah helped me tremendously. She was very professional and knowledgeable regarding government positions. When I was scheduled for an interview, both Sarah and Kathryn Troutman emailed me with suggestions and tips. They were extremely helpful.

The biggest challenge I faced was waiting and being patient for the process to work itself. I was also worried that being in Virginia, I was going to have a hard time getting a job in another location. I did notice that using the resume that Sarah wrote for me generated far more responses and referrals to the hiring officials. I believe if I didn’t utilize the services that The Resume Place provided, I’d still be looking for a position.

Thanks to everyone at The Resume Place for their time and effort! I would, and have recommended anyone looking for a position with the Government, to look into their services and see if it works for them.

Very satisfied customer, TB”

Writer/Coach: Sarah Blazucki

REFERRED TO DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY!

6/16/11

Jobseeker:: Private to Federal

Current Job Title: President and CEO of Fitness Instruction Company

Referred To: GS-14, Senior Watch Officer, Department of Homeland Security

Strategy/Process: Client was a high-ranking national security official with well over a decade of experience in the Federal Government. He left government service in 2010, to pursue an opportunity in the private sector. While finding personal and financial success and a sense of satisfaction, he wishes to return to the Government. His resume was written specifically describing his successful involvement in the response to high-profile incidents that had potential implications for national security. We described his current private sector work to demonstrate new insights and perspectives gained while running his own business. The client was referred to hiring committee following application.

Writer/Coach: Rod Jussim

REFERRED TO HIRING COMMITTEE FOUR DAYS AFTER APPLYING!

6/16/11

Jobseeker:: Private to Federal

Current Job Title: Sales Account Manager

Referred To: GS-9 Contract Specialist, National Institute of Health

Strategy/Process: “After having my Federal Resume from two years ago updated, I took the additional step to have an in-person consultation session with Kathryn Troutman. She showed me how to customize my resume on the fly to match the vacancy announcements more closely and also how to answer the vacancy questionnaire to my advantage.

One of the first resumes Kathryn submitted for me was referred to the hiring manager in 4 days. This must be a new record!

I heard that each vacancy announcement receives 800 or more resumes on average. Therefore, getting through the screening process itself if an incredible challenge. Kathryn has the ability to take the mystery out of the process and helps maximize your chances of at least getting the resume seen by a hiring manager, which will hopefully result in an interview.

If you are looking for a Federal position then you must understand how the monopoly board works. I highly recommend attending Kathryn’s workshops, getting a Federal Resume prepared and to do yourself a big favor by scheduling a consult with Kathryn in order to understand the real ins and outs of the federal job search process.” –J.P.

Writer/Coach: Sarah Blazucki / Kathryn Troutman

REFERRED FOR ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS ATTORNEY ADVISOR

6/6/11

Client: N.G. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Assistant General Counsel, AFL-CIO

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Attorney Advisor (Real Property/Contracts), GS-0905-12, Department of the Army, Army Corps of Engineers

Result: Referred to Hiring Official

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

BEST QUALIFIED FOR VETERAN AFFAIRS

6/6/11

Client: G.N. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Marketing and Strategic Development Industry Lead, IBM

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Management and Program Analyst, GS-0343-13, Department of Veteran Affairs

Result: Best Qualified Category (but not referred because only veterans were referred)

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

VETERAN GETS HIGHEST POSSIBLE SCORE & HIRED BY FEMA

5/26/11

Jobseeker:: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Associate with Booz Allen Hamilton

New Job Title: GS-14 FEMA Supervisory Operations Specialist

Strategy/Process: Client was a highly experienced, long-term private sector consultant and former USAF officer. We recast his considerable subject matter expertise in Federally-friendly terms, making sure that his technical know-how and leadership experience translated clearly into Federal requirements and qualifications. As a result, our client received a score of 105, the highest possible score for a 5-point veteran, and was subsequently hired by his target agency.

“Lex, I will be starting on June 20th at GS-14, Step 5. Thanks for putting together a great resume for me! ” –A.R.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

USAF VET IS BEST QUALIFIED AND REFERRED WITHIN ONE WEEK OF APPLYING

5/23/11

Jobseeker:: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Boeing Program Manager

Referred To: GS-14 Management & Program Analyst with the FBI

Strategy/Process: Client was a five-point Air Force vet with over 20 years as a progressively more senior program manager with Boeing as well as private sector entrepreneurial experience. We wrote his Federal resume to bring out his skills and abilities that were most relevant to the high-level FBI job he chose, especially his extensive program and project management experience and his effective supervisory and entrepreneurial skills, illustrated by many specific details and examples. He found out he had been judged best qualified and had been referred to a hiring manager less than one week after applying.

FROM THE EMAIL CLIENT RECEIVED:

From: XXX.XXX@ic.fbi.gov
Date: May 23, 2011 11:53:14 AM EDT
To: XXX.XXX@gmail.com
Subject: Status update
Thank you for applying to vacancy 10-2011-0030, Management and Program Analyst, GS14 (EX), 14. Your application was ranked among those considered most qualified for this vacancy, and has been referred to the selecting official for further consideration. You will be advised when a selection decision is made.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

FEDERAL CONTRACTOR LANDS INTERVIEW FOR GS-11 POSITION WITH THE STATE DEPARTMENT

4/25/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Grants Management Specialist (Federal Contractor)

Target Job Title: Grants Management Specialist, GS-11, State Department

Strategy/Process: We utilized the proposed new classification standard for the Grants Management Specialist occupation, targeted key skills, and competencies in conjunction with the client’s work experience and education. We specifically focused on his ability to apply applicable laws, rules, and regulations; develop, manage, and administer grants; research and analytical skills, communication, collaboration, and negotiation ability; and project management expertise. Thanks to his new resume, the client was referred for an interview. Selection still pending. The client did engage in interview preparation to better prepare for his interview.

“Sandy,

Good news! I have an interview Thursday, May 5th for a Grants Management Specialist position with the State Department. The vacancy number is ECA-2011-0053. I am interviewing at a GS-11 level. I would like to set up one of the Interview Quick Prep sessions offered by The Resume Place at a cost of $259.00. Please let me know if this is something you would be interested in or if there are different people that provide this service within the company. Thanks so much!” –MT

Writer/Coach: Sandra Keppley

SUCCESSFUL TRANSITION FROM PRIVATE INDUSTRY TO FEDERAL

4/20/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Human Resources Consultant/Business Partner, POOL/PACT Human Resources

New Job Title: Human Resources Specialist (Employee Relations), GS-201-12 Employee Relations

Strategy/Process: The client had applied for multiple positions including EEO Manager, HR Specialist, and Assistant HR Officer to no avail. Since he had no luck applying for these positions, he felt like his resume was incomplete. We analyzed the occupations, vacancy announcements, as well as the client’s work experience in order to develop an effective outline resume that focused on the required skill-sets, specialized experience, and applicable knowledge, skills, and abilities of the positions applying for. We carefully translated his private industry experience to accurately portray the applicable federal abilities.

“I just wanted to give you an update on the job search. I got the job offer for the VA Hospital in Connecticut yesterday! I was so happy and they said I was by far the lead candidate. I will be accepting the offer and the position as a GS-12 HR Specialist in employee relations. It’s a great opportunity. Thank you so much for everything again. If it weren’t for you, I am sure I wouldn’t have been given this opportunity.

I spoke with the Chief HR person and he said he would try and authorize enough funding to cover the remaining three months of our lease here in Nevada in order to free up our funds to move to Connecticut by the end of May as he would like us there by then. He was very understanding of the distance and the finance issues we face in this move and has been supportive of working with us to get us where we need to be. Again, I just wanted to express my thanks and am very excited by this new chapter in my career. Have a great day. Thank you again. Your work on the resume got me to this point and I am grateful!” –J.S.

Writer/Coach: Sandra Keppley

FINANCIAL CONSULTANT SECURES CONTRACT SPECIALIST INTERVIEW

4/20/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Current Job Title: Financial Consultant

Applying For: Contract Specialist/Procurement Analyst (GS11/12); Department of the Air Force

Strategy/Process: This client has been in the financial/securities industry for the past 15 years, and prior to that was in the United States Air Force for five years. Since 2000, he has been a Financial Consultant for a private industry company and is seeking employment as a Contract Specialist in the Federal Government. He has been looking for a federal job since September 2009, and tried to do so on his own for 12 months before hiring Amy as his resume writer/coach in September 2010. We reworked his resume, focusing on his financial, contracts, and procurement expertise. Additionally, we included key accomplishments throughout his work history, highlighting his background, skills, and strengths. Another component was our incorporation of the keywords and phrases from the job announcement. The client applied for a Contract Specialist position in February 2011 and landed an interview on April 27th. In preparation for the interview, Amy offered guidance and interview techniques. We are now anxiously awaiting the outcome!

Writer/Coach: Amy Connelly

FIRST-TIME FEDERAL APPLICANT IS BEST QUALIFIED

4/19/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Best Qualified For: GS-05/07 Program Analyst, Department of Commerce

Previous Job Title: Program Assistant/Intern

Strategy/Process: Client had an eclectic career history, with several different positions interspersed by higher education. We worked closely with him to create a unified and compelling narrative showcasing his skills, achievements, and career path, all of which resonated strongly with the requirements of his target job announcement.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

PRIVATE SECTOR ACCOUNTANT IS REFERRED TO THE DOD

4/8/11

Jobseeker:: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Self-Employed Accountant and CPA

New Job Title: GS-9 DoD Accountant

Strategy/Process: Client was a highly experienced private sector CPA and tax professional with no prior Federal experience. We wrote her resume to target an entry-level Defense Department Federal accountant position that was right for her, showing her years of experience in a way that made sense to Federal HR experts.

“Hi Lex,

I just wanted to tell you that I received a response today for the job you helped me apply for. I was rated “qualified” and my application was given to a selecting official at DoD. With everything going on with the government I’m still hopeful.”–L.S.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

MORTGAGE BANKER REFERRED TO FIRST FED JOB

3/15/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Mortgage Banking Analyst

Referred To: GS-11/12 Commercial Loan Specialist

Strategy/Process: Client was an experienced private sector mortgage banker and loan and housing specialist applying for his first-ever Federal job. We worked extremely closely with client to identify specific achievements and accomplishments in his experience record that were best matched to the keywords and qualifications found in his target federal job announcement. The resume we created got our client referred to a GS-11/12 Commercial Loan Specialist position with the Energy Dept.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

SMALL BUSINESS OWNER REFERRED OUT OF 160 APPLICANTS!

2/23/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Referred To: Safety & Occupational Health Specialist, Department of the Army

Previous Job Title: Small Business Owner

Strategy/Process: This client was an entrepreneur and small business owner working in the same field as his target federal job. We wrote his resume to show in detail how his private sector experience and strong technical skill set tracked closely with the job requirements and desired qualifications for his target federal position.

“Hi Lex. Just an update on the wonderful resume you wrote for me. There were 160 applicants for a GS-11 position in Arizona, and I was referred. Again, I wanted to thank you for all your hard work and kindness in helping me with my resume.” –J.C.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

ACCOUNTANT RECEIVES TWO JOB OFFERS IN 24 HOURS

1/18/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal (Federal Experience, 1999-2001 + 5 point Veteran)

Referred To: Auditor, 0511, GS-9

Previous Job Title: Accountant, Entry Level

Strategy/Process: Patrick’s resume was just a long list of bulleted job tasks and did not include any accomplishments or relevant keywords from the auditor or accounting positions he was seeking. I improved his resume and featured the top keywords and specialized experience using the outline format. Patrick had worked as a Program Analyst with another federal agency for two years almost 10 years ago at a higher grade level than his target. Following that position, he worked in sales. He did not have reinstatement eligibility and the Auditor position was a career change in alignment with his recent master’s degree, accounting certificate, and current private sector experience in accounting.

“Carla, I wanted to update you on my fantastic federal job search. Since October, I have submitted about 27 applications. I’ve gotten 3 interviews and 2 tentative offers, a GS-7 and a GS-9, that will be official after a completed background search. I’ve gotten screened as certified/qualified for the Auditor position by approximately 5 other positions; however, they have not gotten to the interview stage at this point. I fully expect to be called for interviews for a number of the applications that I submitted. I suppose that I had a lot of good, transferable experience that just needed to be packaged in a way that would stand out to the HR specialists/screeners. I’m very surprised the process moved as quickly as it has, less than 2 months in some cases. Thanks for your help with my resume and KSAs. The professional resume was definitely the key to success. I will keep you posted and let you know when my new federal job is finalized. Sincerely, Patrick

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

SENIOR AUDITOR GETS REFERRED TO TWO JOBS FIRST TIME OUT

1/14/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Referred To: Auditor, Department of Health and Human Services, Department of the Interior

Previous Job Title: Supervisory Auditor

Strategy/Process: A highly experienced financial professional and first-ever federal job applicant needed to have his resume rewritten to meet the federal format and content requirements. We worked closely with the client to ensure that his extensive experience and achievements were presented clearly and persuasively in a federally-friendly manner.

“HHS called yesterday and asked me to come in for an interview next week. Although I applied for GS 11, I think I am being evaluated for GS 13. FYI – I forgot to tell you that I have already interviewed for a GS 11 position with Interior last November. Thanks!” –O.I.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

AIR FORCE VETERAN REFERRED AND HIRED FOR DOD JOB

1/14/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

New Job Title Quality Assurance Specialist, Department of Defense

Previous Job Title: Distribution Systems Operator

Strategy/Process: This client was a recent veteran who applied for a DOD job closely matching his military experience. We rewrote his resume to highlight his skills and experience most relevant to his job application, including using highly positive language from his military evaluation reports.

“I want to thank you for your help and support with my resume. Your resume writing skills and expertise helped me become the #1 candidate for the job! Again, I really appreciate your time and effort with helping me get a federal job in the field I wanted to be in. Many thanks Lex!” –J.L.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

FORMER FED AND VETERAN REFERRED 9 DAYS AFTER APPLYING

1/12/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Referred To: Management & Program Analysis Officer, Department of Commerce

Previous Job Title: Small Business Owner

Strategy/Process: This client was a veteran and former federal employee looking to reenter government. We updated his resume and reformatted his post-federal job history to present his subsequent career path and achievements in a format and content optimized for federal HR.

“Mr. Lex Levin was most helpful, cordial, caring, and obviously competent. I’ve already seen the benefits of securing your services. I have a new status of ‘Eligible – Application Referred to Selecting Official.’ I received an identical notice a few days ago from another federal application I submitted. –R.F.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

CONTRACTOR SECURES FEDERAL JOB

9/16/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

New Job Title: Illustrator (Graphics), Department of the Army

Previous Job Title: Graphic Artist

Strategy/Process: This client had been working for the Department of the Army for 15 years as a contract worker and sought employment with the Federal Government for continued career growth and to take advantage of the solid benefits. The client’s resume was reworked so that her skills, background, and experience as a contractor were highlighted. Additionally, we incorporated accomplishments throughout her resume and added key words and phrasing from the job announcement. The client was contacted within one month after the position closed and then she was offered the position soon after.

“My resume looks great and I never could have written it in this format by myself. Amy was wonderful to work with and reworked the resume until it was just right. She is truly a great wordsmith! I don’t think I would have gotten into the government without her help.” –Lisa K.

Writer/Coach: Amy Connelly

HIRED IN THE LAND OF MICKEY MOUSE!

1/3/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Boot Camp Instructor, YMCA

New Job Title: Medical Reimbursement Technician, GS-5, Dept. of Veterans Affairs Chief Business Office

Strategy/Process: This client had been working out of the financial field, where his background and education lies, for over 10 years and had worked part-time positions as a personal trainer/boot camp instructor and professional courier. Crafting his resume required a refocus back into the financial field while including keywords and phrases to highlight his previous accomplishments. The client received numerous referrals, was interviewed, and then contacted by HR within three weeks after the job announcement closed – with an offer in hand.

“My resume looks awesome! I have received numerous considerations — opportunities in Washington D.C., Valdosta, GA., Orlando, FL., Germany, and Tallahassee, FL., to name a few. I have chosen to take an offer in Orlando, FL with the Dept. of Veterans Affairs on 1/3/11 in Orlando, FL. The Land of MICKEY MOUSE! Thank you for all of your efforts, expertise, and guidance.” –Christopher J.

Writer/Coach: Amy Connelly

SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT IS TOP QUALIFIED FOR USDA SENIOR MANAGER JOB

9/9/10

Jobseeker: Non-Profit Sector to Fed

Previous Job Title: President and Chief Operating Officer of a Non-Profit

Referred to: USDA Food and Nutrition Service Regional Administrator

Strategy/Process: Client was a subject matter expert in the food and nutrition field, and had led an NGO leader in this field for 10+ years. Client now wanted to join the Government, to continue working in this area as a GS-15 regional manager. We drew on client’s extensive background of working with the government and major private industry stakeholders to illustrate in depth client’s subject matter expert status and former contributions to the global food and nutrition field.

“Got notified that my application was in top qualified for the GS15 USDA/FNS position.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

REFERRED AND INTERVIEWED: PRIVATE SECTOR PILOT TO FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION

8/17/10

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Fed

Previous Job Title: Jet Blue Airways Pilot & Airbus Captain

Referred to: FAA Program Manager (Aviation Safety Inspector)

Strategy/Process: Client had 20+ years of successful private sector aviation experience, and was applying for his first Federal job with the FAA. We worked with the client to bring out those elements of his experience that most closely matched the FAA target job requirements, as well as putting his resume in a Federal-friendly format.

Client Testimony:

“I’m interviewing for an FAA job next week. Your resume was instrumental in obtaining this interview.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

REFERRED AND INTERVIEWED: PRIVATE SECTOR AUTOMOBILE SALES MANAGER FOR U.S. ARMY CONTRACT SPECIALIST

8/23/10

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Fed

Previous Job Title: Finance, Inventory, and Business Manager

Referred to: U.S. Army Contract Specialist, Aberdeen Proving Grounds

Strategy Process: Client had ten years as a private sector Contracts and Procurement Specialist with a large automobile dealership who wanted to go Federal for the greater career opportunities, greater job security, and improved quality of life. We went over his private sector experience in great detail, showcasing his qualifications for the target job and using keywords from the job announcement to establish his credentials for the position.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

PRIVATE SECTOR BANKING PROFESSIONAL RATED BEST QUALIFIED ON 5 APPLICATIONS

7/28/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior VP, Commercial Lending

Referred to: Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing; SBA and other agencies

Strategy Process: Doug had a functional resume and a chronological resume. There was great information in both, so I selected what was most relevant to his target federal job, expanded the content, and added keywords for Lending Specialist and Business Development Specialist. With some basic coaching from me, Doug wrote the KSAs for his applications. The duration of the search campaign was about 90 days as of 7/2010. 18 applications have been submitted; 10 have not yet closed. The client has rated qualified for 5 positions at the GS-12 and 13 levels for Loan Specialist and has been referred to the hiring official.

“Prior to Carla’s assistance, I got absolutely nowhere! I applied for at least 12 positions without being referred and I could not understand why. I was really frustrated! As a banking professional with 15 years experience but NO government experience, I felt lost in the process. I searched the web and found The Resume Place. I realize now how different the federal application process is from private sector. Resumes must be in a proper format, you must write answers to KSAs, provide additional documentation, and target the right jobs. Carla guided me through the process of preparing my new resume. She asked questions and was very detailed and thorough. Then, she worked her magic. Since receiving my new resume I have targeted jobs with the proper fit for my skills with immediate results — highly qualified on five occasions. Without the professional assistance, guidance and advice Carla provided, I would have never realized these results. The investment I made with The Resume Place has paid off… All I need now is the invite to the interview!” –Doug

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

BEST QUALIFIED AND INTERVIEWED

7/28/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: VP, Credit Solutions Specialist

Referred To: Small Business Administration

Strategy/Process: This client’s private sector resume was not very detailed and there were no accomplishments. He had excellent lending and SBA experience. I expanded the content of his private sector experience and integrated keywords for the target series/position, Lending Specialist. I provided coaching to define some great accomplishments.

Hi Carla, I just wanted to let you know that I was scored as best qualified for two grade levels for the recent application I submitted as Lender Relations Specialist. I was subsequently selected for an interview. Disappointingly, I was not the candidate ultimately selected for the position despite the fact that my interviewer reinforced many times that I had great qualifications. However, I am getting results and remain optimistic that a federal job is in my future. I am so happy with your work. Thank you. –Jack

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

HIRED!

7/28/10

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous Job Title: Claims Pre Examiner

New Job Title: Claims Examiner (GS-0301), Transportation Security Administration

Strategy/Process: This client had over 15 years of private sector experience as a program manager and administrative manager. She had great analytical and administrative skills, so we looked at both a Program Analyst and Administrative Officer position for keywords. We also strengthened her resume with quantifiable accomplishments.

Hi Carla, I just wanted to let you know that I was sworn in as a full time, permanent Federal employee last week. You had originally prepared my resume back in 2008 and I was successful in landing a position with a federal contractor. You updated my resume last fall (2009). I had applied for the position available in my department in December and made the cert list. I was selected for an interview and offered the job. So, thank you for doing such a terrific job on my resume and the KSA help! I only applied for 3 federal jobs over two years and was rated best qualified for all 3. I will continue to refer others to The Resume Place. –Joyce

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

REFERRED: VIRTUAL SPECIALIST, REAL JOB

7/28/10

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous Job Title: Customer Service Representative

Referred To: Live Virtual Constructive Domain Specialist, U.S. Army

Strategy/Process: Client had an extensive and impressive background in virtual domain design, construction, and management, which was partly obscured by several recent jobs in unrelated fields. We worked closely with the client to bring forward his position-relevant skills and achievements, and to showcase and detail his broad and deep experience in this cutting edge field.

“Lex, I have been referred to the hiring official.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

INVITED FOR FIRST FEDERAL JOB WITH THE PEACE CORPS!

7/23/10

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous job title: Resource Development & Marketing Strategist with Habitat For Humanity

Referred to: Supervisory Development Specialist (Fundraising) position with the Peace Corps.

Strategy/Process: Client had excellent previous development, marketing, project management, and fund raising experience, but no prior Federal employment, and needed to translate her accomplishments into a Federal-friendly resume specifically targeting this Peace Corps job. We worked closely with client to write a resume showcasing her strong qualifications for the target position, and matching her achievements to specific job requirements. Client was invited in for an interview one month after applying for the job.

“Good news! ‘Thank you for your interest in the Supervisory Development Specialist (Fundraising) position at the Peace Corps. We were impressed with your qualifications and would like to invite you in for an interview if you are still interested in the position.’”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

PRIVATE INDUSTRY CONSTRUCTION TO NATIONAL PARK MAINTENANCE MECHANIC

7/23/10

Previous Job Title: Project Manager / Foreman

New Job Title: Maintenance Mechanic

Strategy/Process: Robert had a successful 30-year career in construction before the economic downturn, and was looking for more job security. We developed a federal resume and KSAs in December 2008, and applied for several jobs. After applying for about 10 jobs, Robert was offered a position as a Maintenance Mechanic, WG-4749-08, at Prince William Forest National Park, and started in November 2009. Hes since been promoted to WG-09, and recently applied for a permanent position with the same organization.

Writer/Coach: Sarah Blazucki

PRIVATE INDUSTRY TRANSITION TO FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

7/22/10

Job Seeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job: Business Operations

Federal Agency: FEMA

Search Campaign: The duration of my federal job search was 6 1/2 months.  I submitted 50 applications, qualified for (or was referred) for 10 positions, and went on interviews for 3 positions.

Strategy/Process:  I initiated my federal job search by first attending Kathryn’s one-day seminar for first time Federal Job Seekers.  The seminar was structured with care for attendees without any previous federal job-seeking experience.  A methodology was presented in a clear and concise fashion on how to conduct a position search, submit an electronic application, and monitor responses online.

“Along the way, Kathryn shared invaluable tips and tactics, including — but not limited to — resumes that stand out, KSAs that get read, and how to follow-up directly with an agency the right way. Most importantly, I left Kathryn’s seminar with the confidence knowing that if I implemented the guidance provided, and was diligent with my efforts, that I would be successful. With my new found knowledge, I moved forward…Kathryn was right!

My next step in the process was to engage Sarah Blazucki to work with me and compose a federal resume.  I emphasize “work with” because the approach Sarah provided was both engaging and thoughtful.  Sarah took the time to garner a thorough understanding of my work experiences, identify technical and behavioral strengths, and support each point with practical examples that presented effectively on a federal resume. Sarah also demonstrated a strong sense of empathy and commitment to the effort.  She followed up often and made sure she got the facts right, by seeking clarification and acknowledgment in a collaborative and constructive manner. Sarah is top notch!”

Writer/Coach: Sarah Blazucki

REFERRED AND INTERVIEWED FOR FIRST FEDERAL JOB: AVIATION SAFETY INSPECTOR – AIR CARRIER OPERATIONS

7/3/10

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous Job Title: JetBlue Airways Airbus 320 Captain

Referred to: Aviation Safety Inspector – Air Carrier Operations, Federal Aviation Administration

Strategy/Process: Client was a highly experienced private sector commercial airline senior pilot looking to leverage his aviation experience into a first-ever Federal Job as a Federal Safety Inspector job with the FAA. We translated client’s extensive private sector experience into Federal-friendly language that highlighted his wide range of relevant technical and specialized skills as well as his overall leadership experience and can-do approach.

“I interviewed with one FAA office … The resume has gone to ALL FAA offices in the US and I’ve had great feedback. Just weighing my choices right now.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

PRIVATE ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER TO FEDERAL ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER

6/27/10

Previous Job Title: Environmental Engineer

New Job Title: Environmental Engineer

Total Length of Job Search: 1 year

Strategy/Process: J. had been applying for federal jobs on her own for about nine months before she contacted The Resume Place. During that time, she was rejected for four positions. After she worked with The Resume Place, she was referred for nine positions (nine different announcements) and received two job offers simultaneously. Both offers were for GS-0819-13, Environmental Engineer positions. For the job she accepted, there had been over 30 applicants. She received her job offer April 1 and started on July 6, 2010. (She took time to finish her master’s degree.)

Hi Sarah and Sam –

Some GREAT news! I have been picked up for the GS-13 Environmental Engineer position. I want to thank you for your assistance in getting my resume into tip-top shape.

Thanks again for all your help in securing my new position. I’ve recommended the resume place to several friends looking for work in the DC area.

Very Sincerely,

J. Patterson

Writer/Coach: Sarah Blazucki

PRIVATE SECTOR IT LITIGATION SUPPORT SPECIALIST GETS HIRED BY THE SEC

6/26/10

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Federal

Previous Job Title: Litigation Support Project Manager

Target Job Title: Information Technology Specialist, (Litigation/Customer Support)

Grade: GS-2210-14

Strategy/Process: The client worked at a Law Firm in Washington DC and had a solid track record of litigation support, knowledge of litigation support information technology tools and understanding of the new rules of civil procedure (E-Discovery) that went into effect in December 2006. As most private sector clients go, the resume was short and brief. The announcement required five KSA’s. We worked together to write and develop them. The client had a fantastic background, but couldn’t seem to get it down on paper. After several sessions on the phone, we were able to put together a marvelous package that hi-lited his achievements and experience. The client was interviewed and selected in his second attempt for a federal job. “Rich,

I hope you’ve been well. I wanted to thank you again for all your help on my job search. I previously tried to email you, but the email never went through. I got the job at the SEC and started working there recently! I will definitely recommend The Resume Place to anyone else that I know that is looking to take the next step.”

Brian Pietrzyk

Writer/Coach: Richard Westfield

PRIVATE SECTOR TAX ACCOUNTANT OFFERED SEVERAL IRS POSITIONS

5/4/10

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Federal

Previous Job Title: CPA, Tax Accountant

Target Job Title: Internal Revenue Agent, GS-0512-12/13

Carla, (5/1) Good news – I was interviewed for the IRS LMSB position in St. Paul. This was the first announcement to which I applied with my new federal resume. Thanks again for your help. The real value I got out of using Resume Place was unlocking the secrets to the government hiring process, primarily knowing that I should prepare my KSA answers in advance. I am sure that was the key, along with the improved resume.

(5/10) I am very excited! I was offered the IRS position and start June 21 with 2 weeks training. In addition to the offer in Minnesota, I also received phone calls from two other IRS locations. Carla, I am confident your writing was what did the trick! I spent quite a bit of time on my own writing the KSAs. Thank you for providing the KSA guidelines and tips. P.T.

Strategies I expanded the content of the client’s private sector resume to include more keywords from the target IRS announcement. I also created a stronger qualification summary incorporating core competencies defined in the announcement. The client and I worked together to develop and feature his top accomplishments on his new federal resume.

Once this client was selected for an interview, I also recommended interview coaching with Jessica Coffey, one of the members of our writing/coaching team. Jessica worked with him by telephone to improve his interviewing skills.

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

PRIVATE INDUSTRY TRANSITION TO FEDERAL CAREER PATH

5/13/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Manager of Statistics

Previous Employer: H&R Block, Inc., Senior Manager of Statistics, Kansas City, MO, 64000

Strategy/Process: Client possessed extensive education; i.e., Masters-Statistics, Masters-Economics, Bachelors-Agricultural Economics. (Started PHD – 23 hours). Client also possessed extensive knowledge, skills, and abilities within the realms of an economics, statistics, technology, leadership, oral and written communication, and overall business operations and management. The goal was to blend her social and economic technical abilities and knowledge with her extensive aptitude for business operations and management. Often success can be achieved blending technical skills within a work environment conducive to a client’s interests. In this case, the client will be performing technical skills within USDA.

I had a verbal offer today, with a written offer forthcoming for a Mathematical Statistician position within NASS in the USDA. Thank you for all your support! Best regards, Linette Lanclos

Writer/Coach: Sandy Keppley

CLIENT GETS HER FOOT IN THE DOOR AT THE SSA!

3/18/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Telesales Representative

New Job Title: Contact Representative

Strategy/Process: This client introduced herself to the Resume Place while attending one of Kathryn’s Free One Hour Webinars in January. She decided that in order to secure a job within the Federal government that she would need professional help with transforming her Private Industry resume into a Federal style. I worked closely with the client to target her resume toward a Contact Representative position with the SSA. The end product showcased her relevant specialized work experience and highlighted her noteworthy accomplishments. The client was very pleased and will began work with the SSA on the 29th of March.

Amy was a prompt, courteous and experienced writer who not only dealt with my incessant questions but provided me with the best looking resume I could have expected.  I had hopes of obtaining a position with the government as a Contact Representative as you had also stated on your site that this position was one of the best ways to get your “foot in the door.”  It was.  Exactly one week after I signed up for your service, the job posting I was interested in opened up on USAJobs. Amy worked furiously and diligently to get my resume done in time to submit it for this posting which was only open for 5 days.

Your books and services are PRICELESS.  I did struggle with the price at first but I came to the realization that the costs are an investment in my future and but a small amount compared to my government earning potential.  I will HIGHLY recommend your services to any of my colleagues that ask about my resume.

By being in contact with HR, I had learned that there were over 900 applicants for this position.  The SSA had 45 Contact Representative positions open.  My mother and I (she had also used your service) got 2 of these positions and your company was responsible for that.

Thank you again. J.M.

Writer/Coach: Amy Connelly

PRIVATE INDUSTRY TRANSITION TO FEDERAL CAREER PATH

3/17/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Director of Marketing

Federal Agency: Treasury Engraving and Printing

Strategy/Process: This was a challenging project as the applicant had primary experience in strategic project and contract management in private industry. She was seeking a position with the Federal government. Her skills were carefully analyzed with specific attention geared toward the occupational series of 1102, Contract Administration, and 0343, Management/Program Analyst. Skills, experience, and key words were carefully blended to develop a successful application based upon thorough and precise resume and KSAs.

“This email is to inform you that I received a tentative job offer on December 19, 2009 with the US Treasury, Engraving & Printing. The initial investigation has been completed and I will commence working on March 15, 2010.

I took the class in April, applied for my first position of many in June; had my first interview in December (though I did not receive an offer) and receive a call a week later to interview with the US Treasury Department. A week after the interview HR called making me an offer (smile).

I would like to thank you all for your hard work, dedication and commitment as you assisted me with my resume and KSAs. I could not have done it without the training.

I will continue to tell others seeking to acquire a career with the Federal Government about your organization.

Continued success..”

Writer/Coach: Sandy Keppley

JOB SEEKER GETS REFERRED AND INTERVIEWED TWO WEEKS AFTER APPLYING

3/14/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Legal Assistant

Target Job Title: Immigration Program Analyst, GS-0301-12, Department of Labor

Strategy/Process: Laid-off client had to demonstrate strong legal and management skills in her resume that matched the position description’s requirements. We worked closely with her to make her resume much more detailed and keyword-friendly, and added vital information about her prior training, professional development, and key accomplishments in earlier jobs. Client was referred to the hiring official within one week of submitting her application, and was invited for an interview less than two weeks after applying.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

QUALIFIED FOR THE FOREIGN SERVICE OFFICE MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST ORAL ASSESSMENT ON FIRST TRY

3/12/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Executive Assistant

Target Job Title: U.S. State Department Foreign Service Office Management Specialist

Strategy/Process: Foreign-born client had to present a concise biography and short personal narratives to pass the first stage of the Foreign Service Exam. We worked closely with her to detail and emphasize her prior academic, administrative, and professional achievements, as well as relevant facts from her biography, and to tie them to the State Department’s OMS requirements.

“I passed the first round of screening and I passed the Microsoft Certification test so now I’m just waiting to schedule the oral assessment.”

D.L.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

PRIVATE INDUSTRY EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT SECURES INTERVIEW WITH DoD ON FIRST TRY!

3/5/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Executive Assistant

New Job Title: Office Manager

Strategy/Process: Joan was looking to make the transition out of the private sector and into the world of federal employment. Her main goal was working for the Defense Information Systems Agency. Joan’s current resume was extremely lean and did not illustrate a lot of her relevant skills. Joan had a lot of experience, 20 years in fact. Her resume needed an overhaul and she was more than ready.

Working together, we were able to develop a really strong application package. Her fist time submitting, she secured the interview she had been hoping for.

Hi Kristin,

I just wanted to let you know that I have an interview scheduled for March 18 with DISA. It will be a panel interview. Thanks so much for all your help!

Writer/Coach: Kristin Mianecki

HIRED!

2/22/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: University Research Associate

New Job Title: Research Conservation and Development Coordinator, GS-401-11, Dept. of Agriculture

Strategy/Process: This application required extensive import of keywords and a refocus of the resume to highlight and concentrate relevant accomplishments and experience, which were disjointed and obscured in the previous resume. Client was referred, interviewed, and hired one month after submitting his application.

“Just wanted to let you know that I did get the RC&D job with the NRCS. I start at the end of next month and I’m looking forward to getting going. Thanks with your help on this.”

Larry M.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

SELF-EMPLOYED FINANCIAL CONSULTANT SECURES ACCOUNTANT INTERVIEW!

1/25/10

Jobseeker: Self-Eployed to Federal

Previous Job Title: CPA

Target Job Title: Accountant, GS-0510-13/14. Dept. of Health and Human Services

Strategy/Process: Client’s resume and narratives were re-written to showcase his extensive leadership, management, and administrative experience in the financial field, as well as his proficient technical job skills. Client was ranked best qualified and was referred for an interview.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

RESUME EDIT-CRITIQUE WAS ENOUGH TO GET CANDIDATE REFERRED

11/25/09

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

New Job Title: Human Resources Technician

Challenge: Client was retired military with 5 point preference using VEOA eligibility. His military experience was not really related to the position he was applying for and his contractor experience, while on point, was not appropriately reflected in his resume. Action:We only had time for a critique edit because the position was closing in 48 hours and it was a Resumix application. I analyzed the announcement, identified the key words and showed the client how to incorporate them into his resume and delete the irrelevant experience. Result:Within two days of the closing date, the client was told that he was referred. Needless to say, he was thrilled!

Dear Ms. Nancy Segal, With your assistance I’ve breeched this considerable obstacle. Not certain what the next step may be, but the unit commander is aware of this development, and is awaiting receipt of my referral from CPOC. Sincerely, RC

FOREIGN MEDICAL/MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST

11/17/09

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Associate Professor

Target Job Title: Health Science Officer, GS-0601-13/14, Dep. of Veterans Affairs

Strategy/Process: Foreign-born client’s prior significant medical research and management experience (much of it foreign) had to be translated into keyword-friendly, US government-relevant experience that tracked closely with the target position. Client was referred and interviewed within two weeks after submitting the resume, letter of intent, and narratives we prepared.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

STRATEGY DESIGN FOR MAJOR CAREER CHANGE

11/10/09

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous Job Title: Teacher

New Job Title: Federal Protective Officer

Strategy/Process: This was a challenging project as the employee had primary experience as a public school educator. He was seeking to change careers and move into the field of Physical Security. His skills were carefully analyzed with specific attention geared toward physical security duties performed in addition to his academic responsibilities within the public school system as well as skills gained as a volunteer in the community.

Hi Sandra,

I am now employed by a Federal contractor called Chenega Integrated Systems as a Federal Protective Officer. I am assigned to FEMA. I thought this would give me a boost in experience – a stepping stone job.

I brought your resume with me to the federal job fair in DC, and received about 1/2 dozen interest calls and emails from companies. Also, I passed your name and Troutman along to a friend who is looking for a Federal resume writer. I will be beginning my Fed job search again in the spring. Thank you for all your help.

JOB SEEKER GETS “BEST QUALIFIED”

11/4/09

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: University Assistant

Target Job Title: Foreign Affairs Specialist, YA-0130-02, Office of the Secretary of Defense

Strategy/Process: Removed most recent nonprofessional job from resume, focused and detailed relevant prior foreign policy travel and work/academic experience, highlighted relevant professional accomplishments, all using keywords from the position description. Client was ranked “best qualified” despite recent non-professional job and period of unemployment.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

INTERVIEW PREP RESULTED IN JOB OFFER!

10/31/09

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

New Job Title: Small Business Development Specialist

Challenge: Client was received an interview based on the resume we wrote (Dottie Hendricks was the writer) but wanted to ensure that he was fully prepared for the interview. Action:We analyzed the announcement, fleshed out his CCAR stories and his “elevator” speech. And, we practiced his responses until he was comfortable with his answers. Result:The client was pleased with his interview prep, saying that he felt fully prepared. And, even better, he got the job!!

Nancy, I GOT THE JOB! (SBA Business Development Specialist 8a) Thank you very much for your help. I started on Monday and things are working out very well so far. Thanks again I believe the interview training was of a great help.

FORMER WALL STREET BLOCK TRADER LANDS FORENSIC ACCOUNTING JOB. A GREAT RESUME, PERSISTENCE AND NETWORKING ALL CONTRIBUTED TO HIS SUCCESS

10/16/09

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Block Trader

New Job Title: Financial Analyst/Budget Analyst

Strategy/Process: 1. Client worked in a stock trading position that was a challenge to translate to federal language. We analyzed every facet of his job and highlighted anything financial and analytical. We also featured team leadership, collaboration skills, and strong accounting background.

2. I rewrote his resume using the outline and added clearly defined accomplishments. I also created a new professional summary focused on financial analysis and budgeting.

Dear Carla,

Thank you so much for helping me to revamp my resume for the federal sector. I am pleased to tell you that I started my new position as a Forensic Accountant at the end of October.

There were many twists and turns to this story. To my dismay, I was rated as not qualified for the first job for which I applied because. I wanted to find out why, so I called the HR person listed in the announcement and was told I did not have enough accounting credit hours. I was not happy. The HR reviewer had, in fact made a mistake. I have an MBA with a concentration in Accounting AND a B.S. in Economics and Finance the HR and did meet the specialized requirements. She would not change her decision. So I decided to do some networking. I knew someone who had a contact who worked at the FBI and I called them and asked for a higher level HR contact. After a discussion with that contact, I ended up applying for a position as financial analyst in Washington, DC using the resume you created for me. I was offered a GS-13 position, but since it would have required relocation, I asked if any positions were available in new my home. The end of the story is, of course, that I successfully negotiated for a position within commuting distance of my home – a GS-12 accounting job. Thank you again for all your help.

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

PRINTING MANAGER LANDS DREAM JOB WITH NATIONAL ARCHIVES

10/14/09

Jobseeker: Contractor to Federal

Previous Job Title: Document Advisor

New Job Title: National Archives Printing Services Specialist, GS-1654-12

Strategy/Process: Client had 20+ years experience in the printing field, with significant experience as a shop manager. Due to budget cuts, his previous position had been eliminated and he was working as a contractor with no benefits. During the past 10 years the industry had undergone significant change from a warehousing of printed materials to digital print on demand. Our client had not only kept up with these changes but excelled by finding ways for his employers to save significant money in their printing processes. However, his resume was stuck in the past.

Client knew from talking to friends that having the right resume was key, and that due to his long work days he would have difficulty doing the work himself. A friend who was hired on her first attempt applying for a federal job referred him to The Resume Place.

Our client’s goal was to land a lead position with good pay, good benefits, future promotional potential and meaningful work. We identified two positions and began the process. I reviewed the job posting and KSA questions then interviewed the client in-depth to bring out his knowledge, skills and achievements. I then wrote his resume into the Outline Format and used the CCAR format to write KSA responses. Because our client commuted over an hour each way to work, he asked if we could provide data entry service making his a true full-service package.

During the interview process, our client was informed there were over 450 applicants for this position. From that, 40 made the “Best Qualified” pool. ONLY THREE were chosen to interview, and our client was one of the three. 74 days after the posting closed, our client received the offer for his dream job which included a 10% pay increase, full benefits, opportunities for future advancement and very meaningful work.

“Oh what a Joy to have the world’s best resume writer.” -Dwight Bennett

Writer/Coach: Joy Moore

FINANCIAL PLANNER LANDS $100K JOB WITH FDIC

10/14/09

Jobseeker: Self-employed to Federal

Previous Job Title: Certified Financial Manager

New Job Title: FDIC Resolution & Closing Manager CM-01 (equivalent to GS13-14)

Strategy/Process: Applicant had 12 years experience working as a financial planner for two different firms. Prior to that he had experience in banking and with the RTC. When he was previously hired by the RTC, he was recruited and filled out the SF-171 form, so he never had a federal resume. He had a wealth of experience but his resume was a typical 1-page private sector resume that only showed his financial planning background. I started by reviewing the job posting and OPM standards. I then conducted an interview with the client and was able to help him articulate his experience and key accomplishments. I then wrote the resume in the Outline Format. We then worked together on KSAs. I set these up in the CCAR format using stories from his time at the RTC and as a financial planner. I then cross-referenced his KSAs to his resume to ensure the HR person would be able to easily see the connections. The client submitted the resume and KSAs, was interviewed and hired. Start to finish he was in his new job in less than 90 days.

Writer/Coach: Joy Moore

HEALTH CARE EDITOR TURNS PROGRAM ANALYST!

10/1/09

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Health Care B2B Editor

New Job Title: Program Analyst

Strategy/Process: Client was currently working as an IT Specialist at the GS-13 level and was interested in pursuing a Systems Analyst position. Her service started out as a critique, but she decided to eventually make the upgrade to the Full Service Federal Resume Writing option. Together, we were able to create an easy to read, keyword focused resume that showcased the clients applicable knowledge, skills and abilities. She soon secured an interview and began working in February.

Writer/Coach Jessica Coffey

QUALIFIED FOR THE FOREIGN SERVICE OFFICER ORAL ASSESSMENT ON FIRST TRY

9/23/09

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Editor Analyst

Target Job Title: U.S. State Department Foreign Services Officer

Strategy/Process: After passing the Foreign Service Officer Test, our foreign-born client had to submit personal narratives to qualify for the next stage, the Oral Assessment. The personal narratives had restrictive requirements (no more than 200 words) and had to cover a broad range of personal and professional achievement by the applicant. We worked closely with our client to get highly detailed input on his accomplishments, and then crafted tight and concise personal narratives that were responsive to the requirements. Our client was approved for the Oral Assessment on the strength of the personal narratives he submitted.

“Just wanted to update you regarding the Foreign Service Officer assessment. I managed to get through to the next stage and secured an Oral Assessment Interview, which means that the personal narratives were written very well – Lex did an excellent job.”

N.G.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

CLIENT HIRED BY US SECRET SERVICE ON FIRST ATTEMPT

8/25/09

Jobseeker: Contractor to Fed

Previous Job Title: Social Services Researcher

New Job Title: U.S. Secret Service Social Science Research Specialist, GS-9, promotion potential to GS-13

Strategy/Process: Applicant had an excellent academic and experiential background for target job but was unsure how to translate his qualifications through the KSAs. By using key words from the job announcement and closely interviewing the applicant to optimize our presentation of his prior academic and work experience, we were able to write KSAs that got him hired one month after he submitted his application.

“Lex’s input and editing made my KSAs; he helped me understand and navigate what was for me an inscrutable government hiring progress. He transformed my KSAs from average essays into something that helped me stand out from hundreds of other applicants. I had a hard science resume, and was applying for a position where my evaluators may not have understood my previous experience; Lex distilled an extremely complex background in a way that anyone could understand. This is all the more impressive seeing as Lex did not himself have psychological and neuroscience training.

Lex was friendly, personable and professional, finishing my KSAs quickly and making me feel comfortable with his editing and suggestions. Lex also stayed in contact, asking for progress updates to see how the interviews went, whether or not I had been hired, etc.

Lex’s services proved invaluable, and I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone looking to get an edge on their resume and KSA essays.”

STRAIGHT FROM LAW SCHOOL TO FEDERAL SERVICE

8/24/09

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous Job Title: Law Student after career change

New Job Title: Attorney, Social Security Administration

Strategy/Process: Applicant used Ten Steps to a Federal Job book as a resource to guide her federal job search, but also used the personalized coaching with Kathryn and professional writing services to really make a difference. With careful analysis and writing, plus personalized interview preparation and rehearsal, the client got what she needed to stand out in a field where the number of applicants is vast.

“I moved to the District to find a job as a federal lawyer. I had three obstacles to starting my second career: I was changing from the private sector to federal employment, I was new to the east coast, and I had just graduated law school. I applied for 67 positions and receiving numerous emails and letters stating, “Thank you for your interest; we received more than 750 applicants for this position.” The number changed, but the message was clear, many lawyers had moved to DC looking for a federal job and I needed an advantage.

Kathryn’s book gave me a good start, but the time I spent working one-on-one with her is what gave me the edge I needed. We worked together on revising my resume. We prepared for the interview by understanding how to use my KSA answers as examples. In a follow-up phone call, I understood how to negotiate and I managed to start at a higher step than offered. I beat out 178 people and landed a wonderful position with Social Security. Thanks to Kathryn, I look forward to a fruitful career as a federal attorney.”

Writer/Coach: Kathryn Troutman

BEST QUALIFIED ON FIRST APPLICATION

9/5/09

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous Job Title: Asset Manager

New Job Title: Program Analyst (GS-0343-12/13), Social Security Administration

Strategy/Process: This application required extensive import of keywords and a refocus of the resume towards the target job category. We worked closely with the applicant to get the language and thrust of the resume just right, and the results were not long to see – her application was marked “best qualified” less than 3 weeks after submission.

“Hooray!!! Best qualified!!! I will let you know what happens – wish me (continued) luck.” L.G.

CLIENT LANDED PERMANENT FEDERAL POSITION in U.S. – AT GRADE 12 – WHILE STILL IN IRAQ!!

9/11/09

Jobseeker: Contractor to Fed

Previous Job Title: Counterintelligence Agent

New Job Title: GS-12, Security Specialist, U.S. Army civilian

Strategy/Process: Client had a previous resume that got no hits despite being highly qualified for the positions of interest. We worked as closely as possible to revise his resume, highlight his experience and use keywords optimally. Communicating was a challenge since he was in Iraq. On the 29th he applied for a job closing on the 30th. On his first submittal with his new resume he was referred. From Iraq, he managed to schedule a 40 minute phone interview which ended up lasting an hour and a half! He followed up by email and received the offer he wanted as a GS-12, Security Specialist.

“I was putting together KSAs to send to you and have just been offered a fantastic position with the Department of Energy…the first time I used the resume you provided. I appreciate the help. Overall I got the position, location, agency AND salary/GS-level I wanted. Pretty good deal.

Everything worked out and once again, I appreciate the help. Thanks for the assistance and thanks again for the resume. I have already referred several friends to the site.”

Writer/Coach: Daphne Houston

6 INTERVIEWS AND 4 JOB OFFERS WITH ONE RESUME!

8/16/09

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Project Manager/Professional Engineer

New Job Title: Project Manager, GS-1101-12/12

Strategy/Process: We basically took the prior (personal) draft of his resume on USAJobs, re-wrote key portions with key words and re-phrased several sections to better fit the typical Federal Resume format and content. He had all of the right information gained from a very successful career, and had tried several times with various resume writers, but what he needed was the right “packaging” which the Resume Place provided for him. In retrospect, Ernie feels that the resume was written with a “value added” perspective that impressed his hiring managers. He says “one has to understand the perceived values of the reader” to provide an accurate picture of the resume. During the rewrite, he was a bit unsure of the new wording / format. He informed the writer “that isn’t what I want to say or how to say it”. The writer convinced him it was the best way to go, and he was very pleased with the successful ending. Mr. Kulik stated that he had received “six interviews, with four solid offers of employment” in four different states, TX, AR, NY, and TN based on his new resume. Due to his proximity to home, he opted to take the one in NY.

Writer/Coach: Jim Dalton

CLIENT QUALIFIED FOR MULTIPLE POSITIONS!!

6/28/09

Jobseeker: Contractor to Fed

Previous Job Title: IT Specialist, Contractor

New Job Title: Deputy CIO, YA-2210-2

Strategy/Process: Applicant had great qualifications but was having a hard time translating their experience to get through Resumix. By using key words for the job series, eliminating extraneous content and using the outline format, the client’s resume began getting “hits” right away. This client starts their new job next week.

“Good News:

I was on DONHR Charts today and the resume you wrote just qualified me for a

YC-2210-2 position, this is the first YC-2 position that I have seen.

So far the resume has qualified for the following positions:

IT SPECIALIST (APPSW/NETWORK), IT SPECIALIST (INFOSEC), SUPV IT SPECIALIST (PLCYPLN), IT SPECIALIST (SYSADMIN), IT SPECIALIST (CUSTSPT/SYSADMIN), IT SPECIALIST (SYSANALYSIS), IT SPECIALIST (NETWORK/OS)

I honestly, really appreciate what you have done for me. I guess it would behoove me to buy your books.”

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

ONE YEAR SEARCH ENDS WITH MULTIPLE INTERVIEWS AND JOB OFFER

7/24/09

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Health Care Administrative Assistant

New Job Title: Intelligence Analyst, GS-7

Strategy/Process: This applicant had applied to federal jobs for almost a year on his own with no success. His resume did not speak directly to the target jobs. We converted his resume to outline format, focused on target jobs and using the all-important keywords. We also discovered that his answers to the occupational questionnaires were causing him to be ruled out on many applications. We further coached him on how to answer based on his experience and score as high as possible, and taught him our CCAR formula for writing KSAs. The combination was a winner and he started to get invited to interviews. Ultimately, he was hired for a job without being interviewed and is due to start when his security clearance check is complete.

Hello Julie:

As I mentioned to you earlier, I completed my first interview for a government position on 6/13/09 with the VA Hospital in Long Beach. Yesterday I received another call re: a position with Homeland Security. I have been applying for government jobs for over a year without success. I

believe that working with you and Kristin, along with attending some Fed job workshops, has made all the difference in my goal to attain employment with the Federal government. Also, the suggestions you gave me re: formatting ideas for KSAs, along with studying Kathryn’s book “The ten steps to a government job” have helped me significantly in my application process. You are welcome to have potential clients contact me who may be considering your career assistance services.

Roland

UPDATE:

Hi Elizabeth: I spoke with the hiring mgr at the Long Beach Homeland Security office. He said I was selected for a GS-7 position with ICE as Intelligence Assistant. He was confirming that I still wanted the job and has forwarded my application on to the HR dept in Dallas. Could take 2 weeks for processing. Next step is to wait for the HR dept to contact me.

Thanks again, Roland

Writer/Coach: Kristin Mianecki

PHARMACIST LANDS JOB WITH FDA!

6/1/09

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Supervisory Pharmacist

New Job Title: Drug Utilization Specialist or Consumer Safety Officer, FDA

Strategy/Process: Steve’s private sector resume included only 1 job description along with a list of positions back 15 years. So, I really worked with him to expand the content and to add accomplishments to each position. I also created a strong qualifications summary that incorporated keywords from the target jobs. I also recently updated his resume (2/2010) so he can apply for new positions within the agency.

Dear Carla,

In 2/2004, after you completed my resume, I put in on the USA Jobs website. Over the next two years, I applied to about five announcements and was interviewed three times. In May 2009, I was offered a position as a Safety Regulatory Project Manager with the FDA. While I was applying to federal jobs, I also worked to complete my Doctor of Pharmacy. Carla, your resume preparation helped me a lot! I think my Pharm-D degree helped too. You did an excellent job! Thank you!

The FDA is expanding and still looking for pharmacists, nurses and epidemiologists, and anyone with a regulatory background. I would advise young people still in college, to take some regulatory courses, if there are interested in a federal career with the FDA.

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz, CPRW, CFRWC

CLIENT SELECTED FOR PERMANENT FEDERAL POSITION – AT GRADE 14!!

2/9/09

Jobseeker: Contractor to Fed

Previous Job Title: Homeland Intelligence Report/Request for Information Manager

New Job Title: GS-14

Strategy/Process: Despite excellent qualifications, client had not been getting hits on her resume and was unable to be rated as qualified for positions which she believed were perfect for her. We worked closely to revise her resume to highlight her relevant experience and use the key words of her targeted job series. Right away, her resume started being referred. She landed her dream job in intelligence analysis – as a grade 14!

“I figured it was about time to tell you that I did eventually get a federal job. Soon after I heard that I wasn’t accepted for the position at DHS, a friend at another DHS agency asked for my resume. I sent her the one you put together for me with a few minor edits and on 7 November I went to talk to them. At the time I just thought it was “to talk”, but I guess they counted it as an interview.

In any case, on 20 November I was offered a position as a GS-14 and accepted.

I just thought you might like to know. Thanks so much for helping me and I have already sung your praises and that of The Resume Place to others. I know the cost is a bit dear, but I think it is worth every penny.”

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

FORMER FED EMPLOYEE REHIRED AFTER NEW DEGREE

5/29/09

Jobseeker: Returning federal employee to fed

Previous Job Title: Offer-In-Compromise Examiner, GS-1101-09, IRS

New Job Title: Internal Revenue Agent, GS-0512-07, with promotional potential to GS-12

Strategy/Process: Mary originally worked with The Resume Place in 2004, and was offered a job that she had to decline because of hiring delays. In 2007, she left the IRS as an Offer-in-Compromise Examiner to care for a family member and also completed her accounting degree. Two years later, she contacted us to update her résumé and help her switch to a new series – Internal Revenue Agent – based on her degree. For the application, we refocused Mary’s work history to target the agent position. The announcement closed on Feb. 28, and Mary was offered a GS-07 position on May 21. The hiring process took about three months.

I just wanted to let you know that since we worked on my resume for the position of Internal Revenue Agent for the IRS, back in February, I was offered the position on 5/21/09. I begin work on 6/22/09 and am really excited about this opportunity. Having you work on my resume was essential to submitting a polished product, and while there are those out there who believe hiring resume writers is a waste of time, I cannot disagree more.

In addition to my current offer, I also used the resume for two other applications and was asked to interview for one of them today. I declined, but I am certain the resume was critical in presenting my skills and accomplishments in the most positive light possible. Thank you again for your efforts. It was well worth the investment and I would highly recommend your services to other federal applicants.

Sincerely,

Mary S.

Writer/Coach: Sarah Blazucki

FORMER INVESTMENT CONSULTANT LANDS JOBS AS PROCUREMENT ANALYST WITH SECOND APPLICATION

2/1/09

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Federal

Previous Job Title: AVP Premier Client Manager at a top U.S. financial institution

New Federal Job Title: Procurement Analyst, GS-1102-12, DHHS, Washington, DC

Hello Kathryn,

I want to first start by saying THANK YOU for assigning me to Carla Waskiewicz. She is the best. I started working with her in October of 2008. She worked with me to transition my resume from private to federal. She is GREAT. She worked with me daily and helped me compose the best resume ever! She helped me with KSA editing and even job searching. She was always prompt in her responses and she was very patient with me. I applied to only 2-3 positions before being selected for an interview for a position as GS-12 Procurement Analyst with the Dept of Health & Human Services DHHS. I was offered the job AND a salary increase of $10K over my private sector salary. I will strongly recommend your company & especially Carla to family and friends. Thanks again. L.B.

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

CLIENT GOT DREAM JOB!!

3/23/09

Jobseeker: Private sector to Fed

Previous Job Title: Unemployed

New Job Title: Accounts Receivable Technician, GS-501-6

Strategy/Process: Client was unemployed and had experience in Collections. He wanted to work for the VA and put his experience to work to honor those who had made sacrifices. He used both our resume preparation and interview prep services and started getting notices of being qualified right away. After a disappointing interview, he used our interview services, and got an offer in the location of his choice.

“I am writing this afternoon to tell you that I was contacted by the Department of Veterans Affairs with a formal job offer for the position of Accounts Receivable Technician and I have accepted the offer. The lessons I learned from my interview coach allowed me emphasize my accomplishments through each question from the introduction to the close.”

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

QUALIFIED FOR FIRST APPLICATION

5/19/09

Jobseeker: Contractor to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Science Advisor, AFRL

New Job Title: Senior Scientist (ST-0801-00), AFRL

Strategy/Process: This application required specialized formatting, very specific requirements, and a full publications list. We spent many hours identifying science-related examples, at the national level, to meet the requirements.

Diane, Thank you very much for your efforts on my behalf. I believe your work on my CV was the reason they rated me qualified. – W.R.

Writer/Coach: Diane Burns

CLIENT “HAPPIER” THAN SHE’S BEEN IN A LONG TIME!!

12/4/08

Jobseeker: Contractor to Fed

Previous Job Title: Police Officer

New Job Title: Contract Project Manager, GS-13 equivalent

Strategy/Process: This client was a police officer, looking to get off the streets and transition into law enforcement analysis, using her new Master’s degree in public administration and security. She had been a finalist in the highly competitive Presidential Management Fellow program but was having difficulties getting qualified by applying through USAJOBS. We put together a strong resume using our OUTLINE process, clearly highlighting her key words. She was hired for a very high profile contracting assignment and we are working together again to help her make that final transition.

“I know that it has been some time since we worked on my resume, but I wanted to write you a quick thank you note to tell you how much your help meant to me. The reason that I have not written since we finished up the resume is because I was transitioning to my new job! : ) After being a police officer for 5 years, I got a job as a contractor with a private company doing project management work on a contract for DHS. They have a law enforcement mission, so it was not too much of a stretch for me. I am on an IT project helping my clients manage multiple projects. I am working on procurement, project plans, and pretty much any tasks they ask of me. I got a clearance relatively quickly and since then it has been very busy.

Without you, I know that I would never have gotten this job. Last week, I was at the Holiday party…and I met the Chief Information Officer (he runs the show). I told him my story about how I couldn’t get a federal job and he said, “I think we can fix that.” I am happier in this new job than I have been in a long time. I cannot thank you enough for your help!

Thank you a million times over”

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

INTERNATIONAL GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR LANDS JOB STATESIDE, REUNITED WITH FAMILY

10/6/08

Jobseeker: Contractor to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Environmental Technician

New Job Title: Emergency Response Specialist, GS-0301-11

Strategy/Process: After retiring from the Army, Gordon landed a well-paying job with a contractor, but the duty location was Afghanistan. After being overseas for more than 2 years, he longed to return to his home state of Georgia to work and live with his family, but there were few vacancies in that geographic area and his previous application materials were not getting results – certainly a losing combination. His existing materials were heavily focused on environmental and cleanup factors instead of the planning and response skills needed for the target job. We completely revamped his materials with the proper focus and he found several viable vacancies that leveraged his experience and his direct hire eligibility. From start to finish, this job search success took around 90 days.

Hello Elizabeth,

Just want to thank you again and let you know I got the job at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a Emergency Response Specialist GS-11 in Atlanta, Georgia. This was the one I interviewed for and I start on 26 October. Thanks again.

Gordon

Writer/Coach: Elizabeth Juge

PRIVATE SECTOR CONSULTANT LANDS NEW JOB WITHIN THREE MONTHS DESPITE CHALLENGING JOB MARKET

5/7/09

Jobseeker: Private Sector seeking Federal or Private Sector Position

Previous Job Title: Organizational Consultant, Financial & Business Process Analyst

Target Job Title: Federal: Program Analyst; PI: Fraud Examiner/Forensic Accountant,

Strategy/Process: Janet was referred to RP by a former client of Carla Waskiewicz who had been successful with his federal job search. Janet had relocated to the DC area and was doing some consulting work but wanted a full time position. She was open to both federal and private sector positions that would capitalize on her newly acquired certifications in fraud examination and forensic accounting. Janet’s private sector resume was lacking a strong qualifications summary and detailed accomplishments about a very successful career. We created a private sector resume and a federal resume for her with totally revamped content.

Dear Carla,

I just wanted to thank you for the excellent private sector and federal resumes you created for my job search. It was clearly the key to being selected for an interview and landing a new job so quickly in very tough economy. My new position as Partner with an accounting advisory and consulting firm that works with Federal and law enforcement agencies and banks is the perfect job for me. You are truly talented and I appreciate your abilities to underscore and market my strengths in a professional manner. Janet M.

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

APPLIED FOR ONE POSITION AND LANDED INTERVIEW

5/2009

Jobseeker: Contractor/Industry to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Scientist

New Job Title: Interviewed / Geologist (Program Director) NSF (1350-04)

Strategy/Process: T.G needed his corporate resume converted to a federally formatted resume combined with a set of well written federal senior executive level technical qualification statements. We worked together to create several specific program management-oriented stories, using scientific examples. He received notice that he me the eligibility requirements for the position and was in consideration for the position. And a couple weeks later, he received notification that he made the final cut and scheduled an interview.

Diane, I made the final cut. In appreciation. TG

Writer/Coach: Diane Burns

CLIENT HIRED WITH FIRST APPLICATION PREPARED BY RESUME PLACE!!

5/26/2009

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous Job Title: President of a real estate company

New Job Title: Team Supervisor, GG-0301-11

Strategy/Process: Client had been trying without success to get a federal job. Was in the real estate industry and was impacted by the economic downturn. She did not really understand the federal hiring process, how to read job announcements, interpret specialized experience requirements and her resume did not include key words for the positions she was seeking. We worked together to develop a resume that used her recent and highlighted the qualifying experience from several prior jobs as well to develop a strong resume and KSA package.

“Hi Nancy,

I would like to thank you for all of your help in writing my federal resume. The resume that you created got me an interview within 2 weeks of submitting it and an offer within 7 weeks. Additionally, your knowledge of the federal hiring process and the federal interviewing process was very helpful. You are an extremely talented writer and I am blessed to have had you on my federal job search team.”

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

LAID OFF; SEEKING AND QUALIFIED FOR ONE DREAM JOB–A CONTINUING WORK IN PROGRESS

4/29/09

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Architect in Training / Advanced Intern

New Job Title: Referred: Architect (GS-808-12)

Strategy/Process: Matt is an architect working for industry and DoD contractors. His dream job is architect for the US government, specifically abroad–maybe the Foreign Service. The requirements are difficult and finding a good fit announcement was work. We wrote a federally formatted resume and several ksa essays. Matt was diligent and was referred for a position in Hawaii. He is still applying for new openings until he lands a position.

Hello Diane,

Some good news, I received word that I was referred. Thank you for a job well done. – Matt

Writer/Coach: Diane Burns

CONSTRUCTION FOREMAN LANDS PENTAGON INTERVIEW

1/23/2009

Jobseeker: private to fed

Previous Job Title: Project Manager / Project Foreman

New Job Title: Maintenance Mechanic, WG-4749-10

Strategy/Process: Randy has over 20 years of experience in construction and trades, with expertise in carpentry, roofing, plumbing and electrical. As the building industry slowed down, Randy looked to the federal government to continue and build his career. As he had many areas of expertise, he began applying for jobs in several trades fields. He got an interview with one of the very first jobs he applied for, for a Maintenance Mechanic with the Pentagon, just a little over a month after he started his job search. Though Randy did not land the Pentagon position, he continued to apply for jobs knowing his background and experience would benefit the government.

Sarah, I got a call today for a job interview: maintenance mechanic at the Pentagon. I cannot thank you enough for all that you have done for me.

Randy L.

Writer/Coach: Sarah Blazucki

PERSISTENCE PAYS OFF FOR JOBSEEKER; ACCEPTS NEW JOB AFTER ONE YEAR OF DILIGENT SEARCHING AND INTERVIEWING

6/1/2009

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Federal

Previous Job Titles: Administrative Manager, Research Associate

Target Job Title: Program Analyst, 0343-13

Strategy/Process: Pam had excellent policy, research, and analytical experience but her private sector resume was formatted with long blocks of copy, more like a CV, and it was almost impossible to see all of her great qualifications. She also had experience on the resume that was not relevant to the positions she was seeking. We rewrote her resume using the outline format so her program analysis, extensive research project work, team leadership, and management experience would really stand out. We also added clearly defined her accomplishments on the resume and wrote a qualifications summary to showcase everything she had to offer. We used the outline format in her KSAs as well to make it easy to see her accomplishments and to add the CCAR (Context, Challenge, Action and Results) structure to her major research projects.

Hi Carla,

I wanted to share some good news with you. I had four interviews with DHS during the first two weeks of June and now have a “Pre-Employment Notification” for a GS 13. The offer, of course is all contingent on a successful security clearance, but I am very excited. It is exactly the job I was searching for.

I wanted to thank you guys, many times over for making the interviews happen to begin with. I was very confident that if I could just get my resume over the hurdle that would get me to an interview, I could get some great news and voila! I owe so much to you all and truly do send everyone I know your way– whether they are looking for Federal jobs or private sector ones. I cannot say enough.

The new position pretty much entails all the things we focused on in my resume. You know that 99% of my efforts were with DHS because I liked that I might be able to get in at the ground level of a “newer” fed agency. I specifically like this position with DHS, over some of the others I interviewed for, because I know it will be challenging. I will be using my graduate education in organizational policy and my experiences as a researcher and analyst of practices and procedures. It has a sharply defined focus on teamwork and serving a variety of “customers”.

Pam

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

NURSE MANAGER CANDIDATE GETS TWO INTERVIEWS IN TWO DAYS!

6/30/2009

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous Job Title: Charge Nurse

New Job Title: Chief Nurse GS-12 and Nurse/Consultant Manager GS-12

Strategy/Process: Michelle is a veteran registered nurse with great all around nursing experience. She wants to get a position in the Federal Government that will give more management responsibility. Her resume simply needed to be organized into a fashion that highlighted her experience in relation to the skills, knowledge and abilities that were required in the announcements.

Dear Dottie, I interviewed for the Chief Nurse Position in Scottsdale, Arizona yesterday and tomorrow I will be interviewing for the Nurse Consultant position in Phoenix.

Do you have any advise for me on the interviewing? I will let you know how it goes, thank you so much for your help.

Michelle

Writer/Coach: Dottie Hendricks

CAREER CHANGE FROM NURSE TO FED POSITION IN ADMINISTRATION

3/27/2009

Jobseeker: Private to Fed

Previous Job Title: Nurse/Case Manager

New Job Title: Community Supervision Assistant GS5 with a promotional potential GS7, Court Services and Offender Supervision

Strategy/Process: Veteran nurse wanted a total career change to Administrative Assistant in the Federal Government. She wanted a more routine work schedule with less stress and an opportunity to use her non nursing skills. We reworked her resume so that the emphasis was on her many skills in case, program and office management that translated to an administrative/secretarial position.

Hello Dottie,

I write to you with great news! I have landed a position with the federal government. I have gone on 2 interviews and received many “qualified for the position” and a few “your name has been sent to the selecting official” notices.

Thank you so much for helping me with my federal resume and KSA’s.

Rebecca

Writer/Coach: Dottie Hendricks

PRIVATE INDUSTRY ATTORNEY REFERRED ON FIRST APPLICATION

5/17/2008

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Federal

Previous Job Title: Solo Practice Attorney

New Job Title: Supervisory Attorney, GS-15

Strategy/Process: This was applicant’s first foray into federal job applications. Existing resume was heavy on accomplishments that needed translation into fed-speak. Like many attorneys’ resumes, there was little detail about daily duties and responsibilities, so not much usage of keywords. The Resume Place writer provided more description on the top skills of the job, featured knowledge of the specialized statutes, rewrote the accomplishments to use keywords and focused the resume to be targeted and relevant. We capitalized on local government experience from years earlier, supervisory/administrative experience from private practice and knowledge of the specialized area of the law.

Dear Elizabeth,

I have made it to the “selecting official” — Thank you very much.

Lionel

Writer/Coach: Elizabeth Juge

PRIVATE INDUSTRY MUSIC REFERENCE LIBRARIAN WITH FIRST FULL-TIME FEDERAL POSITION APPLICATION

10/20/2008

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Federal

Previous Job Title: Independent Contractor

New Job Title: Librarian GS-1410-09/11. Library Service, Library of Congress.

Strategy/Process: Applicant was a recent graduate holding dual Master degrees in Musicology and Library Science and was working as an independent contractor on a part time, limited basis. Since she recently was graduated, she had limited work experience as an intern and contractor. The Resume Place writer focused on her extensive music and library science educational background, using examples of her course work to highlight her knowledge and understanding of the position requirements. Additionally, her accomplishments in her professional career were showcased to reveal her ability to work thoroughly and independently despite her lack of extensive work experience. The resume and KSAs contained numerous key words derived from the job description along with specific examples to relate the professional and educational experiences back to the job description.

As a result of the applicant’s new resume and refined KSAs, she passed the initial screening and will continue with the application process.

Hi Elizabeth,

I called an HR contact today to follow up with my application and to see if she could give me any info regarding my application status. She told me that I passed the initial screening for the GS 9 positions. She also informed me that she will be meeting with the panel to record results for the scoring of core competencies on Wednesday.

Thank you again for your help!

Catherine

Writer/Coach: Julie Jasper

HIRED IN 3 WEEKS AFTER SUBMITTING PACKAGE!

8/3/2008

Federal Jobseeker: Contract to Federal

Previous Job Title: Security Interviewer (equivalent to GS-5)

New Job Title: Security Specialist, GS-9, Army Corp of Engineers

Strategy/ Process: Client stated that she had applied for several positions she felt qualified for. Most came back with comments such as, “Not referred” or “Not best qualified” or “Your resume does meet the requirements of OPM standards.” Her resume showed that she had all the appropriate experience – it just wasn’t catching the attention of the HR people. Our strategy was to convert her resume to our OUTLINE format, highlighting her top skills and key words to give the HR people the right content to help her rating/ranking. We also featured her accomplishments. She wrote to us only 3 weeks after submission of her package to tell us she had been hired!

“Dottie Hendricks was my resume writer and she was awesome. I have been seeking a Federal job for two years with little success. Although I have an MBA and 22 years combined military and civilian experience I was only able to find entry level employment at the contract level. I would occasionally get an interview or two but I was unsuccessful in finding a job I thought I deserved. I first bought the resume book and reconstructed my resume but I felt that I didn’t know what I was doing. I decided on spending money on a professional resume rewrite. I have had great success once I had my resume done. I have had five interviews and had several offers from all over the country ranging from the Dept of Homeland Security to other large government contractors . I constantly receive e-mails and phone messages about other opportunities. I have accepted a GS-9 job in New Orleans, LA. My first paycheck will pay for my resume and it was well worth the money!!!!! “

Writer/Coach: Dottie Hendricks

CUSTOM FURNITURE MAKER LANDS FEDERAL JOB

1/3/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

New Job Title: Woodcrafter, Architect of the Capitol

Previous Job Title: Prototype/Custom Furniture Maker; Assistant Coordinator

Strategy/Process: The specialized field of this client made the resume crafting process more challenging. His specific expertise lies in furniture making and wood crafting. We took his resume and rebuilt it including details of his knowledge, skills, and abilities, while also incorporating the technical language and key words from the announcement. The client prepared himself for a long job search since his field is so specialized; however he was thrilled to be offered the woodcrafter position and is now working for the federal government.

“I really am enjoying this new job opportunity. Thank you for crafting a wonderful resume and answering all of my questions regarding my federal government job search!” –Karl W.

Writer/Coach: Amy Connelly

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Other Government to Federal Jobseekers

SENIOR IT SPECIALIST REFERRED, INTERVIEWED FOR GS-15, SES JOBS

February 2012

Jobseeker: District of Columbia to Fed

Previous Job Title: Deputy Chief Technology Officer, District of Columbia

New Job Title: Supervisory IT Specialist / Chief Information Officer

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was a senior Information Technology Executive with the District of Columbia, and had previously served as a senior IT executive at leading private sector corporations. We wrote a GS-15 resume and an SES resume to support his applications to senior-level Federal IT positions that detailed and advocated his IT skills and executive achievements in the District as well as in the private sector. Client was interviewed at the Department of Justice and was referred to the US Trading Commodities Futures Agency for senior IT positions.

HEALTHCARE POLICY SPECIALIST LANDS GS-15 MEDICAID JOB INTERVIEW

February 2012

Jobseeker: District of Columbia to Fed

Previous Job Title: Project Coordinator, District of Columbia Government

New Job Title: Supervisory Health Insurance Specialist

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was a highly experienced and knowledgeable healthcare specialist with the District of Columbia who wanted to move into the Federal healthcare policy arena. We supported several applications by her to GS-13/15 jobs with the Department of Health and Human Services, and she was rated Best Qualified to three jobs, was referred to two, and was interviewed for a GS-15 job with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

“…thanks to the collaboration Lex and I have built, I have an interview at CMS for a managerial position, level 15. This will be my first federal job interview… Thanks to the hard work Lex and I have invested, I consistently certify between 95-100 on the scoring of my applications.”

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Federal to Federal Jobseekers

FROM FAMINE TO FEAST: NATIONAL GUARD/ARMY VETERAN LANDS MULTIPLE JOB OFFERS

January 2012

Jobseeker: Vet/Fed to Fed

Previous Job Title: Operational Planner (US Army contractor)

New Job Title: Management & Program Analyst, GS-12, NGB

Result: Best Qualified, Referred to Hiring Official, and Hired

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was a long-serving US Army and National Guard officer with a complicated work history involving prior and overlapping Federal, National Guard, and contractor positions. Despite very strong qualifications, his complex experience record was obscuring his strengths and skill sets, and he was frustrated in his Federal job search. Starting in October 2011, we wrote three different resume versions for him in the USAJOBS, Veterans Administration, and private sector/corporate formats. By January 2012, Client had been referred to multiple Federal jobs (DHS, Army, FBI, VA), received three separate job offers (two Federal, FBI and Army, and one private sector), and accepted a GS-12 Management & Program Analyst job with the National Guard Bureau.

NAVY VET LANDS GS-13 PROGRAM ANALYST JOB AS NAVY CIVILIAN

January 2012

Jobseeker: Vet/Fed to Fed

Previous Job Title: Consular Assistant, US Department of State

New Job Title: Program Analyst, Department of the Navy

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was an experienced Navy veteran. We wrote his resume to bring forward his extensive program and project management experience, which was highly relevant to the job he wanted, and to reword and revise his military experience in more civilian-friendly language.

“Lex, it worked. Thanks. Got the verbal offer last night. Cheers!”

FROM FOREIGN SERVICE TO CIVIL SERVICE

December 2011

Jobseeker: Fed to Fed

Previous Job Title: Consular Associate, US Department of State

New Job Title: Program Manager, US Department of State

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was a long-serving Consular Associate with the US Foreign Service who wanted to apply to a Civil Service General Schedule job after returning to the US after the end of her last overseas tour of duty. We wrote a resume that demonstrated her superior program management skills, her many accomplishments during her foreign assignments, and her in-depth knowledge of the State Department. Client was referred, interviewed twice, and hired for a Washington, DC-based State Department civil service position in December 2011.

“Prepared and confident” client gets the job.

11/9/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Supervisory Health System Administrator

Best Qualified For: Supervisory Health System Administrator

Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

Strategy/Process: Client discussed career path accomplishment with Resume Place President Kathryn Troutman and Certified Federal Resume Writer/Coach Rod Jussim. Client found experience of speaking with Resume Place solidified her ability to describe her accomplishments and clearly explain the scope of her work, something the client had found very challenging. Client specifically said that speaking with Ms. Troutman, Mr. Jussim and the Resume Place team allowed her to go into a performance-based interview prepared and confident.

Writer/Coach: Kathryn Troutman, Rod Jussim

USDA EMPLOYEE MAKES CERT LIST WITHIN A WEEK OF APPLYING

11/9/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Consumer Safety Inspector, Food Safety & Inspection Service (FSIS), USDA, GS-1862-07

Best Qualified For: Consumer Safety Inspector, FSIS, USDA, GS-1862-08

Strategy/Process: The client desired a promotion within her current department, but did not have a federal resume (or a resume of any kind) because she entered the Federal Government in 1998 under different application requirements and had not needed a resume for previous job changes within the department. We created a resume from scratch, analyzing the position descriptions for previous, current, and target positions to ensure that the resume accurately described her experience over the past 12 years. Within a week of applying, she received word that she had gotten Best Qualified and made the Certificate List for referral to a hiring official.

Writer/Coach: Pamela Sikora

GS-14 HIRED FOR GS-15 SUPERVISORY POSITION WITH DHS

11/8/11

Client: D.J. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Assistant Senior Watch Officer, GS-301-14, DHS

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Supervisory Intelligence Operations Specialist, GS-0132-15, DHS

Result: Selected and Hired

“Lex,

According to USAJOBS, I’ve been “selected” for the GS-15 Intelligence position I had the second interview for last week!!!

Thanks so much for your guidance prior to the interview and the work on the resume.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

DHS GS-09 HITS PERFECT 100 POINT SCORE ON FIVE APPLICATIONS USING OUR RESUME

11/7/11

Client: F.B. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Staff Assistant, GS-0301-09

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Mission Support Specialist, GS-0301-11, DHS

Result: Best Qualified, Referred to Hiring Official, Interviewed

“Hi Lex,

Well, you did me good in the resume department because I received 100 points on that resume you did for me. In fact I put in five Mission Support Specialist vacancy announcements and I scored 100 points on all five of those vacancy announcements. Three out of the five have been turned over to the selecting official. I have an interview on the one vacancy announcement that you helped me with.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

REFERRED TO GS-15 PROGRAM ANALYST POSITION

11/3/11

Client: R.K. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Lead Management Analyst, GS-0343-14, U.S. Government

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Program Analyst, GS-0343-14, Department Of Labor

Result: Referred to Hiring Official

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

CLIENT HIRED FOR SUPERVISORY POSITION

11/3/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Distribution Process Worker WG – 6

New Job Title: Materials Handler Supervisor WS-6907 – 6

Strategy/Process: The client was trying to advance his career pursuing positions at the Supervisory level. His previous resume in USAJOBS contained large blocks of information that made his skills difficult to identify and he had very few accomplishments listed. Our strategy was to work with him to develop his accomplishments, which we discovered were quite impressive! We implemented the Outline Format to highlight his qualifications and accomplishments making the resume much easier to read. He was determined Best Qualified, was interviewed and ultimately hired for the Supervisory position he had aspired to achieve! All of this was accomplished in less than 1 month!

“Jessica, Thanks again for your help with my resume! I got the job!! I had my interview last Monday, Friday I got an E-Mail from the HR Dept. Could not have done it without your help!” –D.M.

Writer/Coach: Jessica Keppley

REFERRED FOR GS-12 JOB WITH HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

9/21/11

Client: W.M. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Coordinator, GS-301-11, NIH

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Program Analyst, GS-0343-11/13, Department Of Health And Human Services

Result: Referred to Hiring Official

“Lex, I was referred to the selecting official for the GS-12. Thanks for all your help!”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

“ONCE AGAIN, THE RESUME PLACE MAKES A DIFFERENCE” – REPEAT CLIENT HIRED AS GS-14 PREPAREDNESS SPECIALIST!

9/21/11

Client: A.J. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: FEMA GS-13 Program Manager

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Preparedness Specialist, GS-0301-14, USDA

Result: Referred and Hired

“Just wanted to let you know that I got the job and start Monday! Thank you so much for your help, not only with helping produce a high quality resume but also with working around a tight deadline.

Once again, The Resume Place makes a difference. The company helped me with a resume back in 2006, which led to my first job in the Federal government (as a 13) and now I’m moving to a different agency as a 14. Please convey my appreciation to Ms. Troutman. I’ll definitely be back when it’s time to work on that 15 position and beyond!”

Writer/Coach:: Lex Levin

TSA EMPLOYEE APPLIES FOR 3 FEDERAL POSITIONS, GETS ON ALL 3 CERT LISTS

9/16/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Instructional Systems Specialist, Transportation Security Administration

Job Objective: Program Analyst, TSA

Strategy/Process: This client’s two-year assignment was coming to an end and he wanted to continue working with the Federal Government, specifically in TSA. He had previously used his agency’s in-house resume coaching service without success. He identified his biggest challenge as remembering and documenting all his duties and accomplishments in his current and previous positions, so we analyzed the target announcement and its associated questionnaire for keywords and phrases that might jog his memory. His specialty is in instructional and training systems, so to target his resume toward Program Analyst positions, we focused on the analysis portion of his work in addition to more generalized competencies, such as communication.

“I wanted to thank The Resume Place and more specifically, Pamela, for helping me secure a position with the federal government. I am frugal by nature so I had concerns about paying for a resume writing service. In the end I decided to go forward with using The Resume Place because securing a position would mean a large return on my investment AND peace of mind. I had applied for numerous federal positions, prior to working with The Resume Place but did not make a single cert list. I applied for three federal positions using my resume written by The Resume Place and made all three cert lists! Thank you to Pamela and the staff of The Resume Place. Keep up the good work!” –A.G.

Writer/Coach: Pamela Sikora

5 POINT MARINE VET GETS REFERRED TWO WEEKS AFTER FIRST APPLICATION WITH HIS RESUME PLACE RESUME

9/12/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Position: Flight Engineer/ Contracting Officer’s Representative

Referred To: Industrial Engineer GS-11

Strategy/Process: Client was a 5 Point Marine Corps veteran with over 20 years of military experience. He had made several unsuccessful attempts at achieving positions of this type as a strategy to expand his career opportunities. His resume was a bulleted list of competencies and duties with no mention of his numerous accomplishments. Our strategy was to rewrite his resume using the OUTLINE format, clearly detailing his duties and highlighting accomplishments with the keywords and skill sets to match the announcement. He wrote to us in just two weeks after his submission that he had been referred!

“Jessica,
I just wanted to let you know that my resume has been referred to the selecting official. I’ve applied previously for similar positions with my old resume and those were never referred. Thank you so much for your work on my resume. Hopefully an interview will be next.“
–J.A.

Writer/Coach: Jessica Keppley

REFERRED TO GS-7 DOD REALTY SPECIALIST JOB

9/1/11

Client: R.T. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Accounting Technician, GS-5, Defense Finance and Accounting Service

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Realty Specialist, GS-1170-07, Defense Logistics Agency

Result: Referred to Hiring Official

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

REFERRED TO GS-14/15 DOD FINANCIAL MANAGER JOB

8/31/11

Client: H.M. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Financial Management Analyst, GS-0501-14, US Navy

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Financial Manager, GS-0505-14/15, Defense Finance & Accounting Service

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

MADE THE CERT LIST AND INTERVIEWED FOR THE STATE DEPARTMENT

8/25/11

Client: F.W. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Criminal Investigator, GS-1811-14, U.S. Department of State

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Supervisory Criminal Investigator, GS-1811-14, Department of State

Result: Referred to Hiring Official and Interviewed

EX-NAVAL OFFICER REFERRED TO ARMY GS-12 INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS JOB

8/16/11

Client: O.B. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Consular Assistant, U.S. Department of State

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: International Relations Specialist, GS-0131-12/13, Department of the Army

Result: Referred to Hiring Official

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

MANAGER REFERRED FOR SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

7/14/11

Client: R.A. (first time client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Module Manager, GS-006-08, Social Security Administration

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Contact Representative (Teleservice Representative), GS-0962-07, Social Security Administration

Result: Referred to Hiring Official, 94 points out of 100

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

HIRED AS GS-13 PROGRAM ANALYST!

6/23/11

Client: J.S. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Immigration Program Analyst, GS-301-12, Department of Labor

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Immigration Program Analyst, GS-0301-13, Department Of Labor

Result: Hired!

“Thank you again Lex for all your help and efforts. I was able to move into the position I applied for – GS 13, step 1, started on Monday.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

REFERRED AND INTERVIEWED FOR GS-11 EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

6/20/11

Client: R.G. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Staff Assistant, United States Government Printing Office (GPO), Rank: PG-0301-9/7

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Executive Assistant (Legal), PG-0301-11, USGPO

Result: Referred and Interviewed

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

REFERRED FOR STATE DEPARTMENT CASE OFFICER

6/3/11

Client: H.E. (repeat client)

Jobseeker: Fed to Fed

Previous Job Title: Consular Associate, U.S. Department of State, FP-6/7 (not GS)

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Citizens Services Specialist (Case Officer), U.S. Department of State, CA-0221-11

Result: Referred to Hiring Official

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

AIR FORCE VET GETS REFERRED TO THE USDA

5/26/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Accountant, Defense Business Transformation Agency

Referred To: GS-13 Accountant, US Department of Agriculture, Financial Management Division

Strategy/Process: Client was a 5-point Air Force veteran and DOD civilian accountant with ten years of Federal experience facing the imminent closure of his current agency, the Business Transformation Agency. We wrote his Federal resume to describe in great detail his Federal and earlier private sector accounting experience, highlighting his subject matter expertise, his glowing performance evaluations, and his repeated performance at an authoritative level as a lead budget specialist within his agency, all while incorporating the keywords and terms from his target job announcement.

FROM THE EMAIL CLIENT RECEIVED:

Sent: Thursday, May 26, 2011 11:20 AM
To: XXX,XXX
Subject: Your USDA Application
Dear Applicant,
Thank you for submitting your application for XXXXXXXX, Accountant, GS-13/, with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The application materials that you submitted were carefully considered and evaluated against the qualification requirements and rating criteria. Your application has been referred to the Selecting Official for further consideration, and you may be contacted for an interview. You will be informed of the outcome. Please be advised that being referred to the Selecting Official does not guarantee that you will be contacted, interviewed, or selected.
Sincerely,
USDA Human Resources Project Team

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

PROFESSIONAL SPOKESMAN/PUBLIC RELATIONS SPECIALIST GETS REFERRED TO BUREAU OF OCEAN ENERGY MANAGEMENT

5/26/11

Jobseeker: County Government to Federal

Previous Job Title: Chief Information Officer (School District, County Government)

Referred To: GS-14, Supervisory Public Affairs Specialist, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Headquarters

Strategy/Process: Client was a 5-point Air Force veteran currently working as a School District Public Information Officer in Louisiana. He has gained extensive experience in crisis communications management during situations like Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill. He’s applying for a position that requires communications experience during disasters, in the Gulf Coast Region, and with experience dealing with energy issues.

Wrote the resume almost entirely out of accomplishments, describing client’s moments dealing with disasters like Katrina and the Oil Spill, as well as his time dealing with technical information about oil rigs while working for a major shipbuilder. Client submitted his application on a Friday. He was referred to the hiring committee the following Wednesday.

FROM THE EMAIL CLIENT RECEIVED:

Notification:
Dear XXXX,
This refers to the application you recently submitted to this office for the position below:
Vacancy ID: XXXX
Position: Supervisory Public Affairs Specialist, GS-1035-14
Announcement: XXX-XXX-XXXX-XXXX
Agency: Bur of Ocean Energy Mgt Hq
R – Referred After a review of the information submitted, you have been determined to be among the best qualified candidates for this vacancy. Your information has been referred to the selecting official.

ACCOUNTANT ACCEPTS DREAM JOB – GS-11 POSITION WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION!

5/6/11

Jobseeker: Federal Agency to Federal

New Job Title: Accountant, Grants Financial Analyst

Previous Job Title: Accountant, GS-0510-11

Strategy/Process: Lisa had terrific accounting and grants accounting experience, but her resume was a long list of bulleted job tasks and did not include any accomplishments. Also, it was not in the right format to be inputted and stored in USAJobs and other online resume builder systems. I ended up creating two resumes for Lisa, one focused on Grants Financial Analyst (GS-1101) and the second on Accountant. Both versions incorporated accomplishments/KSAs in the resume. Different accomplishments were highlighted for the two different series. I also wrote a cover letter that highlighted her top accomplishments. She included it with all of her applications.

“Hi Carla,

Hope all is well. I am great. I started my new federal job in April 2011. I applied to two accounting positions with the refocused federal resume, with the KSAs in the resume, that you created for me in December 2010 — one with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the other with the Department of Education. Both applications were sent to the “Selection Official” for interviews within two weeks. I interviewed with the Department of Education in late February. I received an offer letter a week later and accepted! In total, I applied to five announcements, one of which was cancelled.

The cost of rewriting a resume seems overwhelming. However, it is well worth the cost when it leads to “Mission Accomplished” and you receive an offer for that dream job and new beginnings that change the direction of your career for the better. Thanks for everything Carla!!” –Lisa T.

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

NAVY VET GETS GS-13 MANAGEMENT POSITION

4/29/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Deputy Department Head

New Job Title: GS-13 US Navy Telecommunications Manager

Strategy/Process: Client was a recently retired US Naval officer and telecommunications engineer looking to go Federal after over 20 years in the Navy. We worked closely with him to develop and detail his technical, complex engineering resume, making sure that his leadership and administrative skills as well as his subject matter expertise both were strongly presented in the resume.

“Lex,

The resume helped but knowing the people who conducted the interview is what landed me the job. I was fortunate and picked up a telecommunications manager (GS-13) position… Willing to relocate is one of the most important considerations in government employment.”–B.B.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

TSA OFFICER GETS REFERRED AND INTERVIEWED FOR HIGHER TSA POSITION

4/24/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Lead Transportation Security Officer

Referred To & Interviewed For: Master Transportation Security Officer – Behavior Detection Officer

Strategy/Process: Client was a TSA Officer with only 3 years of experience who applied for a more senior and responsible TSA assignment. We developed and described her TSA experience in great detail in her resume, and also used her earlier tenure with Child Protective Services to show her full range of skills and ability in a wide range of security-related and operational issues.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

FROM ACTING TO PERMANENT: HIRED BY THE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE!

3/28/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Acting Principal Director of XXX, Office of the Secretary of Defense, DOD

New Job Title: Program Support Analyst, GS-15, Office of the Secretary of Defense, DOD

Strategy/Process: This client was a highly experienced executive, subject matter expert, and decorated veteran applying for a senior civilian leadership position in OSD. We condensed his rich and diverse military and civilian career with the DOD into a concise, focused resume that hit the keywords and desired qualifications from the job announcement head on and got him referred, interviewed, and hired.

“Lex, I ended up getting selected for and started my new position today. I wanted to thank you again for your work on my resume. It was also very helpful during the Step negotiations as well. I appreciate your help and can’t say enough good about the Resume Place and you in particular. All the best.” –M.D.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

INTELLIGENCE ANALYST HIRED!

2/25/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Intelligence Community Analyst

New Job Title: GS-13 Intelligence Community Biometric Analyst

Strategy/Process: Client was an intelligence analyst applying for a highly technical and specialized position with the Office of the Director for National Intelligence. We went over his resume in great detail to ensure that the most relevant and useful portions of his experience record were highlighted in the resume and in the required essays.

“Lex, I was selected for an interview and subsequently the best candidate for the position. I accepted and am currently working with HR to finalize the process. Exciting times! Thank you for everything.” –I.B.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

“ONE OF THE BEST PACKAGES OPM HAD SEEN IN A LONG WHILE!“

2/25/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Referred To: Deputy Assistant Inspector General

Previous Job Title: Program Director, Office of the Inspector General

Strategy/Process: This client was a highly experienced federal executive with a strong history of Office of the Inspector General work in several federal agencies. However, his first application to the Senior Executive Service was disapproved with the specific comment from the Quality Review Board (QRB) that “the candidate’s Executive Care Qualifications (ECQs) statement was lacking in all areas of the write-up. Overall, the QRB noted that the write-up lacked scope and depth, which made it difficult to determine if the candidate possesses the leadership and executive level qualifications.” We worked closely with the client to develop and rewrite his narratives and examples in the Context-Challenge-Action-Results format for every ECQ, ensuring that the final ECQs were fully compliant with OPM requirements and demonstrated every SES competency clearly and convincingly. The client’s ECQs were approved by the QRB the second time around.

“Lex, good afternoon. I wanted to let you know the results of my second QRB pass. They were approved with the comment that it was one of the best packages OPM had seen in a long while! Thanks for all your help and kudos to Resume Place. Again, thanks.” –S.R.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

VET AND FED BEST QUALIFIED AND REFERRED TO DHS JOB

1/20/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Referred To: Production Specialist, DHS

Previous Job Title: Freedom of Information Act Technician

Strategy/Process: This client had a diverse federal career in law enforcement, the military, and administration. We rewrote his resume to highlight his experience most relevant to his target position, harmonizing his resume to the keywords and qualifications emphasized in the target job announcement.

“Lex, Here is what I received back! ‘You were placed in the best qualified category based upon your qualifications. You were referred for this position.’” –I.P.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

FED TO FED – REFERRED AND HIRED!

1/19/11

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

New Job Title: Supervisory Specialist, Library of Congress

Previous Job Title: Supervisory Specialist and Team Leader

Strategy/Process: This client was a highly experienced veteran federal employee looking to get promoted and hired into a senior management position in her agency. We worked closely with her to emphasize and detail her extensive technical and supervisory experience, and also used her strong volunteer experience outside of work to highlight her strong people skills and commitment to public service.

“I am a little late in thanking you and Katie for the hard work you put into the resume and KSAs that were submitted in support of this vacancy. Chalk up another success for the team – I got the job! You did a fantastic job in highlighting my skills and your writing was superb. Katie also did a great job in submitting the material on my behalf. Once again, thank you for your help! –A.I.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Submissions Specialist: Katie Custard

LANDS FEDERAL JOB 2 DAYS AFTER POSITION CLOSES

1/7/2011

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Human Resources Specialist, Department of the Interior-National Parks Service

Referred to: Human Resources Specialist, Department of Interior, Bureau of Indian Affairs

Strategy/Process: This client had been working for the Department of Interior for 8 years in Arizona and wanted to seek opportunities on the East coast where she could have more potential for job growth and career advancement. We enhanced her resume, added key information, and incorporated accomplishments throughout highlighting her skills and background. Client was contacted immediately after position closed and then interviewed with HR. She was offered the position on the spot and starts in late January.

“I applied for a position in Virginia where the job announcement closed in late December. One day after the position closed, I received a call from the Hiring Official, and then set-up a telephone interview for the next day. After talking with the HR representative for 20 minutes, he offered me the position! I owe a huge THANK YOU to you for making me look so GOOD!” – Cindy L.

Writer/Coach: Amy Connelly

REFERRED AND INTERVIEWED: SENIOR AIRPORT PLANNER AND ANALYST GOES USMC

9/1/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Transportation Industry Analyst, Department of Transportation

Referred to: Community Planning and Liaison Officer, Marine Barracks, Washington, DC

“I have an interview for planner position at Marine Barracks Washington… I did use the resume you formatted…”

Strategy/Process: Client had very strong prior planning credentials and experience, but his current job was in a different field. We made sure to emphasize his relevant planner experience for his target job in his resume, and emphasized the planning elements in his current position. We also created and added to his resume a list of specific projects relevant to the target job, missing from the original resume.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

PROMOTED, REFERRED, AND INTERVIEWED: US NAVY VET HITS JOB SEARCH TRIFECTA

8/24/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: US Navy Administrative Officer

Referred to: Program Analyst, Naval Facilities Institute, CA

Strategy/Process: Client was a 22-year USN veteran, former Senior Chief Petty Officer, and now civilian employee who wanted to leave the Administrative field and return to his former arena, policy and program analysis. To support his career change plans, we detailed his extensive background in policy and program management and analysis, including relevant elements in his current position, and made sure his relevant experience dominated his resume and resonated to the keywords in the job announcement.

“I was offered a Program Analyst GS-0343-12 position at the Naval Facilities Institute…Perfect position for me…The resume you prepared for me helped me get promoted in May 2010 to a GS-0341-12 Administrative Officer position. Thank you.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

REFERRED/CALLED FOR INTERVIEW

4/6/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

OBJECTIVE: Program Analyst, G13, HQDA

Current Job Title: Project Manager,(Logistics/Supply Chain Manager) GS 13

TARGETED JOB TITLE: Management Analyst GS- 0343/0346 13

Strategy/Process: Client was looking for a change in positions, was referred to RP by a friend. She had good experience but a resume that read like a “laundry list”. She understood the value of converting her resume to our OUTLINE format, so we could highlight her top skills, key words and accomplishments.

Because she planned to focus her search on Army vacancies, we knew that the key words and phrases would be important in order for the resume to be recognized and selected through the electronic scanning system used by Resumix.

Her strategy was to find a new job in a 1 year time period. Her experience with the Federal government allowed her to be methodical and realistic in her search.

The resume was finished 3rd week in May 2010 and she began to submit it. She wrote to us the 3rd week in July 2010 to say, “ I wanted to let you know, I am hitting all of the lists for the positions I am qualified for. I am averaging about 12 to 15 job referrals at any given time. Currently I am on 13 referral lists! Some positions have been filled and others have been cancelled, but I still make the lists for others.”

“I just received my first call for an interview for one of the positions. Everyone tells me that I will first make the referred lists, then the calls will follow a few months later for the interviews.”

“I just want to tell you thanks. I will let you know when one of the jobs pans out.”

Writer/Coach: Dottie Hendricks

IRS COMPUTER PROGRAMMER GETS A PROMOTION

7/12/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Computer Programmer, GS-2210-12

Target Job Title: Lead Information Technology Specialist, Applications Developer

Grade: GS-2210-13

Strategy/Process: The client came into the federal government in 2004 as a computer programmer for the IRS. After many attempts at a promotion, a friend recommended The Resume Place to assist her in strengthening her resume. Her resume was brief, read like a job description and did not include her many accomplishments. Using the Resume Place proven Outline format methodology, we completely rewrote the resume using keywords from the 2210 classification series and an announcement the client was interested in.

“Last year, in August, you wrote a dynamite application for me to apply for a GS-13. The jobs I applied for went no select and we didn’t see any openings for many months. I have been using the application and have been selected for several interviews, and of course I got the GS-13 I really wanted. I wanted to let you know how it all finally turned out. Thank you for all the help and support and encouragement and your wonderful writing.”

Helen Haag

Writer/Coach: Richard Westfield

REFERRED TO THE EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

5/19/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: DEPUTY COMPTROLLER, 2009-Present. Department of Defense, Rank YC-03

New Job Title: Budget Officer, GS-0560-14, Executive Office of the President

Hi, I just wanted to let you know that I found out yesterday that I got referred for this job. Thanks again for all your help!

Strategy/Process: Client was an experienced budget officer. However, her resume was too long and not focused enough. We worked closely with her to develop a keyword- and achievement-rich resume targeting her desired position, and wrote a cover letter that clearly and succinctly outlined her strong qualifications for the job she wanted. Client was referred to a hiring manager less than three weeks after submitting her application.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

US NAVY CIVILIAN REFERRED

5/13/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Program Analyst, US Navy, GS-12 equivalent

New Job Title: Management & Program Analyst, GS-0343-13, US Navy, Fleet and Industrial Supply Center (FISC)

In reference to the job you helped me write the resume for, I just found out I made the first cut and am now scheduled for an interview.

Strategy/Process: Client was a senior US Navy Civilian Program and Management Analyst with 30+ years of experience. Actively engaged client through intensive phone and email contacts, which allowed me to add significant amount of detail to client’s resume and showcase her many relevant skills and her readiness to accept a GS-13 position. Client was referred to the hiring official and invited for interview two months after submitting her application.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

NASA STAR FLIES HIGH

3/23/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Lead Program Analyst and Integration Team Lead

New Job Title: Supervisory Management and Program Analyst, GS-0343-15/15, US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Strategy/Process,: Actively engaged extremely busy client, including arranging face to face meetings after hours, and intensive phone and email contacts. Added key details from client’s past evaluations and one on one discussions that fleshed out her resume and highlighted her many relevant skills and her complete readiness to accept a GS-15 position. Client was referred to the hiring official and hired within two weeks of submitting her application.

Lex,

I got the offer yesterday. Yeah!!! Still hush, hush here because it hasn’t been officially announced. Thanks so much for your help.

Regards,

J.W.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

CLIENT LANDS 2 TSA INTERVIEWS WITH ONE RESUME!

3/1/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Transportation Security Officer

New Job Title: Aviation Inspector/Cargo Inspector

Strategy/Process: Jeff came to the Resume Place as a Transportation Security Officer with TSA looking to take the next step. He was interested in pursuing both an Aviation Inspector position as well as a Cargo Inspector position. He had a lot of excellent relevant work experience, but his current resume did not showcase it as he would have hoped. By highlighting his skills, his knowledge of TSA directives, laws and guidelines and his professional training, we were able to re-focus his resume to target these positions.

Initially, Jeff applied to the Cargo Inspector position. After minimally tweaking his resume, we were able to target the Aviation Inspector position as well. Jeff landed interviews for both.

“Hey Kristin…just wanted to give you an update…got the call today! I interview for both Aviation Inspector and Cargo Inspector next Thursday. I appreciate all your help! I want to give myself the best opportunity to succeed…resume-place offers interview prep…correct?”

Writer/Coach: Kristin Mianecki

SENIOR RESEARCH ADMINISTRATOR

2/24/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Interim Director

Target Job Title: Health Scientist Administrator, GS-0601-15, National Institutes of Health

Strategy/Process: Client’s resume and narratives were written to feature both her extensive research background and her more recent administrative and management experience, both of which were crucial for the high-level target position. Client was ranked best qualified and was referred for an interview.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

TWO MONTHS TO A GREAT JOB

2/23/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Director of Office Support

New Job Title: Lead Program Analyst, GS-0343-14, DoD

Strategy/Process:This application required highlighting of IT keywords and terms to match client’s impressive experience to highly technical and technology-rich target job requirements. Client was referred, interviewed, and hired just over two months after submitting his application.

“Kathryn and Lex, Following a couple of interviews last week, which went very well, I received multiple offers this week. I start the new position as a PMP certified portfolio manager. Thank you for everything you have done!!”

S.K.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

IT SPECIALIST BEGINS JOB AS SYSTEMS ANALYST

2/15/10

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: IT Specialist

New Job Title: Systems Analyst

Strategy/Process: Client was currently working as an IT Specialist at the GS-13 level and was interested in pursuing a Systems Analyst position. Her service started out as a critique, but she decided to eventually make the upgrade to the Full Service Federal Resume Writing option. Together, we were able to create an easy to read, keyword focused resume that showcased the clients applicable knowledge, skills and abilities. She soon secured an interview and began working in February.

Writer/Coach: Jessica Coffey

CONSULT AND TEN-STEPS BOOK LEADS TO BEST QUALIFIED ON FIRST ATTEMPT

10/14/09

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title:Broadcast Production Assistant

New Job Title: Public Affairs Specialist, GS-12

Strategy/Process: Applicant had 10+ years experience in the broadcast industry. She had won an Emmy and had produced many successful documentaries and public service programs. She had strong organizational skills and outstanding communication skills. She had recently completed an MBA and was frustrated at her ability to move-up.

Client had purchased the 10-Steps to A Federal Job book and had created a draft resume. However, she was having difficulty identifying the types of jobs she was qualified for, and while a good first start her resume needed some polish.

During our one our consult, I explained the hiring process in more detail, we researched and identified several potential positions, and I gave her tips for improving her resume and KSA samples. I also reviewed her background and recommended she apply for GS11/12 positions. Although she was possibly qualified at a GS-13 level, her lack of prior federal experience, her desire to try something new, and the fact that there were many more openings in the 11/12 grades indicated she would have a higher degree of success at this level.

The client applied for several positions. After only SEVEN days she was notified she was in the Best Qualified pool for a GS-12 position. The position is in one of her target cities. The base pay would be a 20% increase for her, but due to cost of living differences it is actually almost a 50% pay increase. Once she is notified that she has the interview, she plans to purchase our full-service interview prep service to make sure she will come out as the top candidate.

After many failed attempts at writing my own KSAs and resume I turned to The Resume Place for help. As a result of Joy’s expert guidance I recently applied for a position with the IRS in which I made it into the A pool on my first attempt. Soon I will be interviewing for the IRS position thanks to The Resume Place and the consultation with Joy. -Ann Thomas

Writer/Coach: Joy Moore

MAJOR CAREER CHANGE WITHIN THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

9/01/09

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: IT Specialist, 2210

Target Job Title: HR Specialist, GS-201-12

Strategy/Process: Refocused resume based on transferrable skills for major career change from IT field to Human Resources. Carefully analyzed announcement, identified applicant’s relevant skills and qualifications and featured them in a way that matched up with the specialized experience required for the job.

“Kathryn,

Mike’s efforts and your books helped me get a GS-12 job at the Smithsonian. You have been an inspiration to me for many years and with reason, your content and staff work. I will be a HR Strategic Business Partner to a number of the organizations in the institution.”

Writer/Coach: Mike Ottensmeyer

FEDERAL EMPLOYEE SERVING AS ACTING GS-12 BUDGET ANALYST RECEIVES PROMOTION

4/01/09

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Budget Analyst, GS-11

Target Job Title: Budget Analyst, GS-12, U.S. Army

Strategy/Process: Cindy had worked with Carla Waskiewicz for several years to improve and update her federal Resumix U.S. Army positions. This time she was seeking a promotion to a GS-12. We analyzed the internal job posting and matched any new keywords and experience to the work she had been doing and then incorporated the new information into her current job description.

“Carla,

Thank you for helping me to update my federal resume for the position of Budget Analyst (0560-12) available with my current federal employer, the USAG. I just wanted to let you know that I was offered the position on a permanent basis and I have accepted. It has been a pleasure to work with the Resume Place since 2001! –CC”

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

CLIENT SELECTED FOR PERMANENT PROMOTION – ONLY PERSON ON CERT OUT OF 21 APPLICANTS! FEDERAL EMPLOYEE SERVING AS ACTING GS-12 BUDGET ANALYST RECEIVES PROMOTION

4/01/09

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Budget Analyst, GS-11

Target Job Title: Budget Analyst, GS-12, U.S. Army

Strategy/Process: Cindy had worked with Carla Waskiewicz for several years to improve and update her federal Resumix U.S. Army positions. This time she was seeking a promotion to a GS-12. We analyzed the internal job posting and matched any new keywords and experience to the work she had been doing and then incorporated the new information into her current job description.

“Carla,

Thank you for helping me to update my federal resume for the position of Budget Analyst (0560-12) available with my current federal employer, the USAG. I just wanted to let you know that I was offered the position on a permanent basis and I have accepted. It has been a pleasure to work with the Resume Place since 2001!” –CC

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

LATERAL MOVES CAN PUSH YOU FORWARD

6/9/09

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Director, Workforce Planning and Management (GS-301-15)

New Job Title: Director, Immediate Office of Chief Human Capital Officer, Business Partners Office (GS-301-15)

“Hi Diane, I believe that the resume package you helped put together was the reason I made the referral list. I was selected out of a LOT of applications, including 6 internal candidates… I decided to accept a letter to gain more experience at the executive department with a larger audience and more impact–positioning me for future senior positions….I cannot express in words just how grateful I am that you contacted me to see how my career goals are going. You made my day. – S.M.

Writer/Coach: Diane Burns

FOUR INTERVIEWS, ONE GREAT CONTACT

6/11/09

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Natural Resource Economist, Bureau of Reclamation (GS-0010-12)

New Job Titles: Program Analyst, Water and Environment (0343-13); Contracts & Water; Program Specialist (GS301-13)

Strategy/Process: The strategy was to create a federal resume package and KSA essays focusing on contracting and building coalitions. We succeeded, as P.E. obtained 4 interviews! She is currently working for and temporarily contracted by the network she met in the second interview to gain more skill sets.

Diane, I just got an email saying I was a top candidate on the job the closed last Thursday, and my name has been referred. I also have an interview for the contracts position Tuesday. Thanks for all your great work. – P.E.

Writer/Coach: Diane Burns

LANDED SEVERAL SES-LEVEL INTERVIEWS; ACCEPTS OFFER WITH SEC

3/01/09

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Deputy Asst. Director, Procurement, Facilities and Administrative Services (301-15), Department of Justice, NSD

New Job Title: Management and Program Analyst, SEC (0343-16)

Strategy/Process: T.W. was ready to move to senior executive service. We spent many hours preparing a strong ECQ and Technical Qualification factors package to compliment the updated federal resume. T.W. then applied to several announcements and received several executive level interviews.

Hi Diane,

Thanks to you, I joined the SEC in March and all is well. I had several interviews and several referrals but decided to go to work for the SEC because of their work life policy, and their career development program. Thanks again. Best Regards, – T.W

Writer/Coach: Diane Burns

LANDS GS-14 WITH MERIT PROMOTION FORM HELP

3/01/09

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: IT Specialist GS-2210-13

New Job Title: IT Specialist (Systems Analyst) GS-2210-14

Strategy/Process: For internal promotion at IRS, client needed to fill out form 9686 (which provides very limited space for duties and accomplishments) and write 4 technical competency narratives. The entire application was basically riding on the success of the narratives. We featured 4 of the client’s unique accomplishments and told the stories using the CCAR formula – always a formula for success.

I got the job. Thanks again for your help.

I am copying my daughter Christine, as I believe she is also interested in utilizing your services.

Best Regards,

WR

Writer/Coach: Elizabeth Juge

CLIENT FINALLY MADE BEST QUALIFIED LIST AND WAS REFERRED!!

9/26/08

Jobseeker: Fed to Fed

Previous Job Title: Supervisory Transportation Security Officer, SV-1802-G

New Job Title: Transportation Security Specialist, SV-1801-G

Strategy/Process: Client was working as a Transportation Security Officer but was looking to move into the professional job series of Specialist and put his 20+ years in the private sector as a business owner to work. Prior applications had resulted in determinations of “qualified” but not best qualified and his applications had never been referred. We worked to develop strong KSAs and a resume that really “told his story” and clearly demonstrated his qualifications – a strategy that worked and he was referred for his perfect job that used his private sector expertise.

Just to keep you updated. I did make “Best Qualified” for this position and due to my Cargo experience, my package was recommended by one official and forwarded on for further review.

Thank you for a great job on the resume. I will let you know what happens.

Thanks Again

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

RETIRED GOVERNMENT EXECUTIVE RE-ENTERS THE WORKFORCE; GETS THE INTERVIEW

6/17/08

Federal Jobseeker: Retired Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Chief Financial Officer, SES

New Job Title: Chief Operating Officer, SES

Strategy/Process: Client had not had an updated Federal resume in many years and needed to write ECQ narratives. The new job was in an agency with functions similar to his old job, but we had to show that his knowledge was fresh and up to date and that his skills could transfer from finance to operations. We wrote a new federal resume focusing on the top skills outlined in the vacancy and developed ECQs using accomplishments that are relevant in the new organization.

Original email:

Elizabeth, I apparently made it to first base. My input was judged as “qualifying”. I was told I am one of 4 deemed qualified. So….we’ll see what happens now.

Follow up email 3 weeks later:

I have the interview next Monday. Hope to hear something soon thereafter.

Michael

Writer/Coach: Elizabeth Juge

STATE ATTORNEY GETS INTERVIEWED FOR GS-14

8/11/08

Jobseeker: State to Federal

Previous Job Title: Lead Attorney

New Job Title: GS 13/14 General Attorney

Strategy/Process: Client had 17 years of excellent experience defending the state and collecting child support arrears on behalf of county citizens. The existing resume explained the scope of her job and her duties, but did not feature her successful cases or her accomplishments. The existing resume also did not cover the critical key words for the target jobs. After refocusing and rewriting the resume, and helping the client with various KSAs, she started to see results. To see an external candidate get referred for a GS-14 is very rare, and her package helped her achieve those results.

Hi Elizabeth-

I was interviewed for the HHS job! It went very well, and I was told that my experience was a really good match for what they were looking for. Turned out that I was the 2nd choice and the job was offered to another person. BUT, the selecting official told me that because of a retirement another position will open in the coming year that is even more on target with my specialty. I was also rated best qualified on the Department of Labor job that I applied for. I am very happy with the resume and will wait for the next vacancy. Thank you!

Martha

Writer/Coach: Elizabeth Juge

MAJOR CAREER CHANGE ACHIEVED WITH ATTENTION TO SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE

6/01/08

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Federal Correctional Officer

New Job Title: Federal IT Specialist

Strategy/Process: This was a challenging project as the employee had 20+ years in federal corrections; he was a supervisor. He was seeking to change careers and move into Information Technology on a full time basis. We carefully analyzed his experience in IT, added up all of the part time assignments he had in IT over the years, to ensure he met specialized experience requirements. Then we put together a resume and essay that detailed his specialized experience, while keeping within the 1,000 character limit for the essay.

Nancy, I got the word yesterday that I was selected for the IT position at the GS-9 level. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication. Jose

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

ENGINEER HIRED AFTER 20+ YEARS AWAY FROM FED EMPLOYMENT

4/1/08

Jobseeker: Former Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Engineer/Manager

New Job Title: Engineer, YD-2, top of pay scale

Strategy/Process: Client was a reinstatement eligible who left the government 20+ years ago. He is an Engineer who had spent the last 20+ years in management, making six figures. He had been offered a federal position a couple of years ago but turned it down because of the pay, unaware that he could negotiate salary and leave accrual. We prepared his resume and coached him, once he got the interview, on how to negotiate his pay, as well as on how to ask for additional leave accrual. Needless to say, he accepted this new offer and was thrilled!!

Nancy, I got the job. Please see below:

“This email will constitute as a firm job offer for the position of

Environmental Engineer, YD-0819-02 with the USA Engineering & Support

Center, Directorate of Ordnance & Explosives, Huntsville, AL. The duty

location of this position will be Huntsville, AL.

Management has approved a salary of Base $82,353, Local Market Supplement

$11,719, total $94,071.

Please advise if you accept or decline this firm offer. If you accept, I

would like to set the report date of 27 April 2008.”

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

EXCEPTED SERVICE EMPLOYEE GETS REFERRED FOR COMPETITIVE POSITION

7/1/08

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Special Services Officer / Clinical Psychologist (in an excepted service agency)

New Job Title: Clinical Psychologist (DoD)

Strategy/Process: Client had applied to this same job previously on her own, without Resume Place, and did not get referred. She came to us to revamp the resume. We completely reorganized how the content was presented – organizing the top skills in the resume the same way they were organized in the vacancy. Client’s work is really technical and clear parallels had to be drawn between her experience and the new job requirements so that non-technical HR personnel could clearly see the qualifications. We packed the resume with keywords of the job, the agency and its mission. We also provided support in dealing with the “how to apply” instructions and ensuring those were interpreted correctly.

Elizabeth – You won’t believe what happened. I got an email on Tuesday that I was Not Qualified/Not Referred – out of scope of something or other. I hit the decks. I was just a wreck. Then I called HR to find out the reason. They said that I was excepted service and ineligible for the competitive service announcement. I tried to calm myself down and talked to some senior HR people here at my agency – then called back and talked to the person who disqualified me with the facts and language about non competitive eligibility.

In about four hours she called back and APOLOGIZED and said she had made a mistake – read the regulation and had revised the list she sent forward to the hiring official. I got email notification today – QUALIFIED AND REFERRED. What a roller coaster.

Thank you again for putting up with me. You did a great job and I honestly think that I had the courage to deal with the subsequent events because I was SURE that the resume you produced was just top notch and there was no way that the problem was the resume. So thanks a million. Great work.

Best,

Jill

Writer/Coach: Elizabeth Juge

FROM ANNOUNCEMENT DEADLINE TO BEGIN JOB IN 10 WEEKS!

7/11/08

Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Chief Librarian, VA GS-12

New Job Title: Health Systems Specialist, VA GS-14

Strategy/ Process:

Applicant was a career librarian with the Dept of Veterans Affairs. In the last few years she had taken on additional responsibilities in the education field and had applied for several openings in the Office of Academic Affiliations. The challenge was that even though she had 4 years of experience in this field, she couldn’t get her resume past Human Resources.

We highlighted her newer experience and skills that related to the key words of the announcement and positioned them at the forefront of the resume where they were readily recognized with amazing results.

Hi Dottie;

Just thought you would like to know that your hard work paid off! I was selected for the position in the Office of Academic Affiliations, and I will start there July 21 as a GS-14! You are the BEST! The very first time I applied for a position with my new resume, not only do I get an interview (which I never got before using my old resume); but I get the job! What is even more remarkable is that we did this over the phone while I was traveling and we had an extremely short deadline to meet.

I had 3 rounds of interviews before I was selected, so getting the job still wasn’t easy. However, you put my skills and abilities in their best light, which got me past the initial HR application review. Believe me, I will be recommending the Resume Place to my friends!

Thanks again!

Joanne

Writer/Coach: Dottie Hendricks

FEDERAL EMPLOYEE TRANSITIONS TO NEW JOB SERIES

8/11/08

Federal Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: GS 11 Composition Specialist (Printing series)

New Job Title: GS 9/11 Visual Information Specialist

Strategy/Process: Client had years of excellent work history in federal government, but her job had been classified in the printing series, even though she was actually performing graphics design work. So we treated this like a career transition. We had to show the actual experience in a way that would overcome job series time-in-grade requirements since she had not worked in the graphics design (visual information) series. We wrote all of her experience to show the actual complexity and description of the work and we focused additionally on her prior private experience which is not stuck in any particular job series.

Hello Elizabeth,

I got an interview last week with the DIA! (that was the job you helped me write the KSAs for). It went well, not sure how long it takes to find out by letter or email or what? Thanks for all your help so far. You don’t know how thrilled I was to get that interview. Talk to you soon,

Camille

Writer/Coach: Elizabeth Juge

LANDS 3 INTERVIEWS AND A NEW FEDERAL JOB AS A USDA CONTRACT SPECIALIST, GS-9/13

9/1/08

Federal Jobseeker: Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Technical Transfer Assistant, GS-8

Target Job Title: Contract Specialist, GS-1102-09

Dear Carla,

I just wanted to let you know that I applied for a GS-9 Contract Specialist position with the USDA, with promotion potential to the GS-13 level,

(with Carla’s wonderful help) back in July. I was granted an interview a few weeks ago and was officially offered the job in August. I accepted.

I have been a GS-8 Tech Transfer Assistant since 2002 and in various support roles with the NIH for 19 years. I started my search for another position a few years ago after graduate school but was not getting interviewed. I came to the Resume Place to help “restructure” my resume so I could begin applying for positions. I targeted the 1102 series because my educational background fit the requirements. I hold a BA in Business Administration and an MBA.

I submitted three applications using my new Resume Place resume, qualified for one and interviewed for two. I’ll continue to spread the word about your wonderful services.

Sincerely, Rene

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

PEACE CORPS EXCEPTED SERVICE PERSONNEL GETS HIRED FOR COMPLEX YA-03 POSITION

09/15/08

Jobseeker: FP-03 Federal to Federal

Previous Job Title: Special Services Officer / Clinical Psychologist

New Job Title: YA-03 Psychologist (Clinical)

Strategy/Process: This applicant had previously applied for this same job, but did not make it through the Resumix process, even though the agency officials were interested in her and encouraged her to apply. The position was eventually closed without hiring anyone. Upon reannouncing, she enlisted the services of the Resume Place to ensure that her application package contained the right key words and covered the top skills of the job. She also did some research to find out what issues were current and important in the agency and we addressed those as well.

Hello Elizabeth,

I received an offer for the job – am trying to get through the security check which is pretty extensive.

Thanks again –

Jill Carty

Writer/Coach: Elizabeth Juge

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT NOW WORKS FOR SBA

12/1/10

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

New Job Title: Administrative Support Assistant, Small Business Administration

Previous Job Title: Administrative Assistant/Pricing Team Lead

Strategy/Process: This client was pleased to begin her new job with SBA in mid-December 2010. She had been working for Target as an Administrative Assistant for the past 6 years and was seeking employment with the Federal Government to have more job growth opportunities. Prior to that, she was a stay-at-home mom for several years raising her children. We refocused her resume to effectively highlight her skills and accomplishments and tailored it towards the position description.

“Thank you for your time and commitment and for helping me in making this task easier by using your talent. Should I need your support in the future, I will contact you and most certainly recommend you to others.” –Donna S.

Writer/Coach: Amy Connelly

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Military to Federal Jobseekers

NAVY VET INTERVIEWED FOR GS-13 INTEL JOB WITH IRS

February 2012

Jobseeker: Mil to Fed

Previous Job Title: Intelligence Analyst, US Navy

New Job Title: Intelligence Analyst, GS-13, IRS

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was an experienced US Navy Intelligence Analyst leaving the military after 20 years of enlisted and commissioned service. We wrote his resume to leverage his very strong background in intelligence research and analysis but also to feature his more general skills and proficiencies in communications, team work, and project management. Client was found Best Qualified, Referred, and Interviewed for a highly compatible intelligence analyst job with the IRS.

NAVY VET GETS GS-12 FBI INTERVIEW

November 2011

Jobseeker: Vet/Fed to Fed

Previous Job Title: Training and Education Specialist, US Navy, GS-11

New Job Title: Management & Program Analyst, GS-12, FBI

Result: Best Qualified, Referred to Hiring Official, and Interviewed

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was a Navy Vet and current GS-11 Navy Civilian. We wrote his resume to support several mid-grade Federal job applications, and emphasized his program and project management skills and his many specific achievements and accomplishments. Client was referred to the hiring official for at least two Federal jobs and was interviewed for a GS-12 FBI Management and Program Analyst job.

Navy Vet and Air National Guardsman Gets Hired for Federal IT job with Veterans Administration

September 2011

Jobseeker: Vet to Fed

Previous Job Title: Staff Sergeant, Air National Guard

New Job Title: IT Specialist, GS-6, VA

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was an Air National Guardsman with prior US Navy Service, both times specializing in IT and Communications. We created a resume that described his strong IT skills and training in detail, as well as his proficiency in IT customer service in particular. Client was hired for a GS-6 IT Patient Services job with the VA in 2011 and now plans to update his resume and apply for more senior GS positions this year.

WOUNDED WARRIOR ATTENDS TEN STEPS WORKSHOP, GETS CAREER INTERNSHIP WITH INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY USING OUR RESUME!

11/15/11

Client: W.M. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Military (Army Sergeant) to Federal

Previous Job Title: Signals Intelligence Analyst & Wounded Warrior Program Participant, U.S. Army

Applying To: Intelligence Community Career Internship, no GS level specified

Result: Selected and Hired by a major USG Intelligence Community agency

“Lex,

They loved the resume. This internship should lead to a full-time paid position after I complete it. I was also called by the Director of the FBI and by the Office of Naval Intelligence, who offered me a full time GS-13 position… I paid $555 for a Veteran’s Federal Resume for a lifetime career as a civilian Intelligence Analyst with the US Government… this resume was worth many times the price I paid.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

CLIENT SERVING IN AFGHANISTAN THRILLED WITH OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE, BEST QUALIFIED AND REFERRED

9/20/11

Jobseeker: Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: Operations Manager; AC/S G-4 Division; III MEF Camp Courtney

Seeking New Job Title: Administrative Officer GS-0301-11 for DoDEA for DoDEA

Strategy/Process: The client was preparing to retire after 21 years of military service. He had a lengthy resume filled with many accomplishments and detailing complex job experiences but it contained military terminology difficult to decipher and was too long. We rewrote his resume using more civilian language, highlighted his accomplishments and focused on his relevant skills.

At The Resume Place we are committed to providing excellent customer service. For service members stationed in other parts of the world, it can sometimes be difficult to establish a connection due to the great differences in time zones. We will work with you and your schedule in order to make our arrangement work no matter where you are currently residing.

“Ladies,
Thank you for the outstanding service and professionalism. This was a very rewarding experience for me. I am not sure what the outcome will be, but I was very happy with the service provided by you and your staff.

Starting over after 21 years is not an easy thing to do, going from hero to zero. However, the little amount of time communicating with you and your staff created a sense of ease in this transition process.

I am very happy with the product I received and will recommend your company to other service members.

The rest is up to me, if I am selected for the interview I will let you know the out come.”
–V.J.

“Update two weeks later: On another note my resume made it through CHRO and was forwarded to Korea, the school superintendent and principals will decide from the group resumes who would be selected for an interview, Thank you.” –V.J.

Writer/Coach: Jessica Keppley

THANKS TO TARGETED RESUMES, HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER FEDERAL POSITION LANDED

3/15/11

Jobseeker:: Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: Supervisor, Counter Rocket Artillery and Mortar (C-RAM), Northrop Grumman, Afghanistan, Joint Defense Operations Center (JDOC)

New Job Title: Selectee, Human Terrain Systems Program, BAE Systems

Strategy/Process: The client was seeking both federal and private industry opportunities. Opportunities being sought included fields of acquisition, business management, and Human Terrain Systems. One Federal Resume and two Private Industry Resumes were developed. As a result of developing concise and targeted resumes, the client was selected for a much sought after opportunity with BAE Systems.

“Thank you for all the work you put into my federal resume for the Human Terrain Systems program. BAE Systems has offered me the position and I will fly to Kansas City on Saturday to start my new job. I will be putting my resume into RESUMIX in two weeks for government selection. Again, I just wanted to say thank you for assisting me in this.” –T.T.

Writer/Coach: Sandra Keppley

CLIENT OFFERED POSITION AFTER INTERVIEW – SELECTED FROM 117 APPLICANTS!

7/21/10

Jobseeker:: Military Reserve Officer to SES

Previous Job Title: General Manager/Fortune 500 Company & Major General US Army Reserves Army

New Job Title: Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Materiel & Facilities)

Strategy/Process: Developed and wrote full SES package with ECQs and TQs

Diane, I was selected for the SES position-Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense-Reserve Affairs (Readiness, Training and Mobilization)! So add me to your “success story” list! Thanks again for all you did to assist me. P.P.

Writer/Coach: Diane Hudson Burns

CLIENT LANDS SECOND POSITION APPLIED FOR – AFTER LENGTHY INTERVIEW PROCESSES

7/21/10

Jobseeker:: Military Reserve Officer and Retired Federal to SES

Previous Job Title: US Army Major General / Former GS-13 Management Analyst

New Job Title: Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Materiel & Facilities)

Strategy/Process: Developed and wrote full SES package with ECQs and TQs; 5-page SES resume; covering letters, professional bio, and industry resume – a full senior level resume portfolio.

Diane – Success!!!! thanks! (I) Finished my first week and am loving everything about it. Thanks for all your help with this, as I’m sure I wouldn’t have been able to get through all of it without your able-bodied assistance and prodding.

R.W.

Writer/Coach: Diane Hudson Burns

INTERVIEWED ON A FRIDAY AND ACCEPTED THE OFFER ON MONDAY!

Jobseeker:: Mil to Fed

Previous Job Title: Lead TSA Screener

New Job Title: Financial Management Specialist

Strategy/Process: Mark has had a successful second career after retiring from the Marine Corps in 2001 and has worked with The Resume Place each step of the way. After his retirement, we developed a private industry resume that landed him a job at an insurance company. After returning to Boston, Mark applied for and obtained a Screener position with the Transportation Security Agency in January 2006. When Lead and Supervisor Screener positions opened up, we updated the resume and wrote KSAs on Thanksgiving Day. Mark was best qualified for both positions and promoted to Lead. While at TSA, Mark excelled and was selected for many special projects.

Looking for more career development and a best fit agency, Mark applied for other positions; he was offered a GS-09 administrative position with the Federal Air Marshals but ultimately declined it because of the commute. Then, a Veterans Affairs Support Services Specialist (GS-07) opened and we put together an application. He interviewed on a Friday and accepted their offer on Monday! After holding that position for two years (2007-2009), a Financial Management Specialist position opened and he was urged to apply. This was a totally new series for Mark (501), and we worked hard to refocus his resume to fit the criteria. He started the position as a GS-09 in September 2009, and will be promoted to GS-10 in October.

“Sarah: Almost 11 years have gone by and I have continued to consistently get promoted. I love my new position and have adapted very well to the finance community within the VA. Forward thinking: my next position will be a Support Services Division Chief (GS-11/12). This goal is very achievable and within reach for me. I want to again, express my appreciation to The Resume Place team, Kathryn, Zoe and MOST of all YOU! It is like I have my own personal Human Resources team looking out and advising me on critical career decisions!”

Mark Englen

Writer/Coach: Sarah Blazucki

HIRED: US NAVY SUPERVISORY LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST

6/22/2010

Jobseeker:: Mil to Fed

Previous Job Title: Chief of Safety, Headquarters Air Force District of Washington, Andrews AFB, MD

New Job Title: Supervisory Logistics Management Specialist, Department of The Navy, Naval Intelligence Command

Kathryn,

It has been a while since we corresponded and I thought I’d bring you up to date on my progress in obtaining a Federal Job.  I have been hired for the job announcement that my resume was written for. Lex did a great job as the resume writer in working with me to capture all the relevant information and ensuring the “right” items were highlighted in my resume. I begin my job on 6 July….thanks for the help in making my transition from the military to civilian life an easy one!

Strategy/Process: Client was a highly experienced Colonel looking to switch from Air Force to Navy while staying in a similar functional area. We leveraged client’s 30+ years of experience in the Logistics and Program Management arena, together with his executive leadership experience, to bring him over successfully to his new Service. We made sure to note client’s extensive back story of civilian and contractor work experience as well as his military service.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

MOCK INTERVIEW PREP LANDS HR DIRECTOR A JOB AS A CONTRACT SPECIALIST!

2/15/2010

Jobseeker:: Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: HR Director for the Army

New Job Title: Contract Specialist

Strategy/Process: Client was ready to make the transition from military to Federal employment. I worked one-on-one with the client during our mock-interview service; developing general practice questions, providing suggestions for improvement, answering questions and delivering an end critique and constructive feedback. By providing the client with the valuable interview skills she needed, she was able to provide knowledgeable responses to her interview questions and impress the selecting officials. She also secured employment as Contract Specialist, the position she interviewed for, in mid-February.

Writer/Coach: Jessica Coffey

NON COMMISSIONED OFFICER LANDS FEDERAL JOB

11/10/2009

Jobseeker: Military to Fed

Previous Job Title: Non Commissioned Officer (NCO) Financial Systems

New Job Title: Hired/Federal Aviation Administration/GS-5

Strategy/Process: In anticipation of discharge from the Army, Alexander did not own a Federal resume and requested the drafting of full resume and KSA preparation packages with the goal of attaining a Federal position. He was contacted for three interviews and received three offers. He declined one offer due to concerns about the commute but later accepted another position. The resume and KSA submission were key to his success along with his strategic job search skills and successful interview preparation.

“…Sandy, Things are going great! I had three interviews over the past month and 2 1/2 offers!!!! I was offered a position with the Comptroller of the Currency but I decided not to take it as it was too long of a commute. I am however taking a position with the FAA as a GS-5 and I have a start date for this position. I had to fill out quite a bit of paperwork but I do have job at a GS rating that I was going for and I am pretty happy about it!”

JOB SEEKER LEARNS VALUABLE LESSON

6/12/09

Jobseeker: Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: Marine Logistician

New Job Title: Hired / Logistics Manager for Marine Core University, 0346-14

Strategy/Process: In anticipation of retirement from the Marines, Ron did not own a resume and requested the drafting of a full resume package for corporate and federal. Even though his military billet was being converted to federal, he still had to compete. He was required to endure a grueling interview process; and in the end he was selected for the position. He made the wise decision to prepare for all contingencies–seeking federal and corporate employment.

Diane,

…when I was retiring from the Marines they civilianized my billet…and I was required to apply and interview for the position. The resume you helped me with was pulled on both the internal and the external certs. …My big lesson was without a well written resume you won’t get a look no matter how good you are. Thanks again. -Jon

Writer/Coach: Diane Burns

AID-DE-CAMP FINALLY GETS JOB AS HOTLINE ANALYST

5/27/2009

Jobseeker: Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: Aid-De-Camp/Personal Assistant

New Job Title: Hotline Analyst GS-1801-11

Strategy/Process: Andrew White was an Aid-De-Camp for the US Army Reserve. He was seeking a job as a Hotline Analyst with the office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, (SIGAR). He came to The Resume Place stating that he had tried submitting his current resume several times through CPOL, but it kept getting “bounced back” due to formatting errors and lack of necessary information. After reviewing his current materials, I made several decisions on how to go about improving his resume, as well as targeting it toward the hotline analyst position. I began by extracting relevant work experience and utilizing keywords. In the end, Andrew’s resume not only made it through CPOL, but he was offered the job.

Kristin,

I just wanted to thank you again… only this time as a Federal Employee! I took the oath this morning and have been in-processing all day!

Thanks again!

Andrew White

Writer/Coach: Kristin Mianecki

MILITARY RETIREE GETS REFERRED AFTER CONTRACTING FOR 2 YEARS

8/18/2008

Jobseeker: Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: Contract Emergency Management Specialist

New Job Title: GS 11/12 Emergency Management Specialist

Strategy/Process: Client had a professional resume from earlier but was not having success. We refocused it from environmental expertise to emergency preparedness terminology and reformatted it the outline style.

I just wanted to keep you informed. I checked the application status on USAJOBS today and there was a code stating I was referred for selection consideration. This is for the Emergency Response Specialist position. What does that exactly mean?

Gordon

Follow up email from writer:

Hi Gordon, this is good news! That means that you are in the top percentage of people who applied and they forwarded your package (along with probably just a few others) to the selecting official. Since you are a ten-point veteran, your application will “float to the top” meaning that you will rank above non veterans. You may be called for an interview. You can also call the HR contact to find out what will happen next.

Best,

Elizabeth

RETIRING ARMY ENLISTED RECEIVES THREE FEDERAL JOB OFFERS

04/01/2008

Jobseeker: Career Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: Quality Assurance Advisor, U.S. Army

New Job Titles: Adjudication Officer GS -9; EEOC Investigator GS-7; and Custom Border Protection Officer GS-9.

Strategy/Process: Tyrone was approaching retirement with the U.S. Army after over 20 years of service and was seeking to transition to civilian life. His top priority was a federal job, but he was also considering private sector or state positions. He contacted the Resume Place for help with translating his many years of military service to a new federal and private sector resume. Tyrone applied for over 15 federal jobs over a span of five months, ranging from GS- 7 to GS-9. He received three federal job offers, but the commute from his home was too far. He decided to accept a state job nearby. He has not given up his federal job search, however, and plans to continue to search for opportunities in the area in which he lives.

I had no idea how to put 20 years of army experience into the new forms of resumes and KSAs that I was not familiar with. Carla saved me. I told her the field I wanted to work in and she created a federal resume, KSAs, cover letter, and a private sector resume for me and coached me on selecting the announcements that she felt were a good match for my experience. Carla saved me. I informed her of what I wanted, and the field I wanted to work in. She created a resume for me that got me qualified and hired. I retired Feb 1, 2008 and I start working with the state government in a position that is a pay equivalent to GS-9. Thanks, Carla. I could not be where I am without your help. Every penny I spent was well spent. If I had it to do all over again, I would. –Tyrone S.

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

PROFESSIONAL INTERVIEW PREP LEADS TO JOB OFFER

02/01/2008

Jobseeker: Former Military to Fed

Previous Job Title: unemployed

New Job Title: Accounting Technician

Nancy,

I have been looking forward to sending this email to you since we started working together. The phone interview I told you about turned into a job offer which I gladly accepted yesterday! I couldn’t be happier today! Thank you so much for helping me put together a winning resume that highlighted my experience and qualifications which got me the interview and subsequently the job. The “mock” phone interview was an invaluable tool that helped me be prepared for the real thing! For someone who had never experienced a performance based interview before the practice helped me focus my preparation on thinking of all of the examples that highlighted my skills and experiences. Thank you for all of your hard work, assistance, and guidance along the way! This has been a great journey with a very happy ending!

Marci

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

CLIENT RECEIVES 10 REFERRALS THROUGH RESUMIX!!

06/01/2008

Jobseeker: Active Reserve Military to Fed

Previous Job Title: Broker and Reservist

New Job Title: Various positions at Army

Strategy/Process: Client had a private sector resume and was formerly a broker. Currently serving active duty and looking to transition into the federal sector. Coached client on how to read announcements and understand specialized experience requirements. Carefully targeted resume to positions which matched skill set. Since finishing his resume, the client has received 10 referrals as best qualified; had rated not qualified before working with us.

Hi Nancy,

I know it’s been quite some time since I last contacted you, so I thought I’d give you an update. So far, I’ve been referred for 10 positions. 5 of the referrals are working now, so hopefully I’ll get some interviews and a job offer. So far, all of my applications have been with the Army and no other agency.

Thanks again for your help; I couldn’t have even gotten this far without you.

Take care,

Kelly

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

MILITARY CRAFTSMAN RECEIVES THREE JOB OFFERS WITH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

1/24/11

Jobseeker: Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: Craftsman/Shift Supervisor, United States Air Force

New Job Title: Welder, Department of Defense

Strategy/Process: This client was in the Air Force and he was focusing on attaining a position with the Federal Government as a Welder. Since he had a short timeframe for his job search, we quickly retooled his resume to showcase his metal working/crafting expertise. Particular attention was paid to crafting accomplishments and including them in the client’s resume. The client applied for three jobs, and was offered all three jobs before Christmas. He was more than happy to choose one and began work in late January.

“My current boss shared with me that I was selected for the job because of my resume, as it showed I was fully capable of taking on the position.  I can’t stress enough how important a resume is in the Federal Government, so if it wasn’t for your outstanding abilities and expertise in writing resumes, odds are that even with my welding experience, I wouldn’t have been selected for the job, so thank you!”

Jake S.

Writer/Coach: Amy Connelly

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Afghanistan and Iraq Contractors – Coming Home to Fed Jobs

CLIENT SERVING IN AFGHANISTAN THRILLED WITH OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE, BEST QUALIFIED AND REFERRED

9/20/11

Jobseeker: Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: Operations Manager; AC/S G-4 Division; III MEF Camp Courtney

Seeking New Job Title: Administrative Officer GS-0301-11 for DoDEA for DoDEA

Strategy/Process: The client was preparing to retire after 21 years of military service. He had a lengthy resume filled with many accomplishments and detailing complex job experiences but it contained military terminology difficult to decipher and was too long. We rewrote his resume using more civilian language, highlighted his accomplishments and focused on his relevant skills.

At The Resume Place we are committed to providing excellent customer service. For service members stationed in other parts of the world, it can sometimes be difficult to establish a connection due to the great differences in time zones. We will work with you and your schedule in order to make our arrangement work no matter where you are currently residing.

“Ladies,
Thank you for the outstanding service and professionalism. This was a very rewarding experience for me. I am not sure what the outcome will be, but I was very happy with the service provided by you and your staff.

Starting over after 21 years is not an easy thing to do, going from hero to zero. However, the little amount of time communicating with you and your staff created a sense of ease in this transition process.

I am very happy with the product I received and will recommend your company to other service members.

The rest is up to me, if I am selected for the interview I will let you know the out come.”
–V.J.

“Update two weeks later: On another note my resume made it through CHRO and was forwarded to Korea, the school superintendent and principals will decide from the group resumes who would be selected for an interview, Thank you.” –V.J.

Writer/Coach: Jessica Keppley

THANKS TO TARGETED RESUMES, HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER FEDERAL POSITION LANDED

3/15/11

Jobseeker:: Military to Federal

Previous Job Title: Supervisor, Counter Rocket Artillery and Mortar (C-RAM), Northrop Grumman, Afghanistan, Joint Defense Operations Center (JDOC)

New Job Title: Selectee, Human Terrain Systems Program, BAE Systems

Strategy/Process: The client was seeking both federal and private industry opportunities. Opportunities being sought included fields of acquisition, business management, and Human Terrain Systems. One Federal Resume and two Private Industry Resumes were developed. As a result of developing concise and targeted resumes, the client was selected for a much sought after opportunity with BAE Systems.

“Thank you for all the work you put into my federal resume for the Human Terrain Systems program. BAE Systems has offered me the position and I will fly to Kansas City on Saturday to start my new job. I will be putting my resume into RESUMIX in two weeks for government selection. Again, I just wanted to say thank you for assisting me in this.” –T.T.

Writer/Coach: Sandra Keppley

CLIENT LANDED PERMANENT FEDERAL POSITION IN U.S. – AT GRADE 12 – WHILE STILL IN IRAQ!!

9/11/09

Jobseeker: Contractor to Fed

Previous Job Title: Counterintelligence Agent

New Job Title: GS-12, Security Specialist, U.S. Army civilian

Strategy/Process: Client had a previous resume that got no hits despite being highly qualified for the positions of interest. We worked as closely as possible to revise his resume, highlight his experience and use keywords optimally. Communicating was a challenge since he was in Iraq. On the 29th he applied for a job closing on the 30th. On his first submittal with his new resume he was referred. From Iraq, he managed to schedule a 40 minute phone interview which ended up lasting an hour and a half! He followed up by email and received the offer he wanted as a GS-12, Security Specialist.

“I was putting together KSAs to send to you and have just been offered a fantastic position with the Department of Energy…the first time I used the resume you provided. I appreciate the help. Overall I got the position, location, agency AND salary/GS-level I wanted. Pretty good deal.

Everything worked out and once again, I appreciate the help. Thanks for the assistance and thanks again for the resume. I have already referred several friends to the site.”

Writer/Coach: Daphne Houston

INTERNATIONAL GOVERNMENT CONTRACTOR LANDS JOB STATESIDE, REUNITED WITH FAMILY

10/06/08

Jobseeker: Contractor to Federal

Previous Job Title: Senior Environmental Technician

New Job Title: Emergency Response Specialist, GS-0301-11

Strategy/Process: After retiring from the Army, Gordon landed a well-paying job with a contractor, but the duty location was Afghanistan. After being overseas for more than 2 years, he longed to return to his home state of Georgia to work and live with his family, but there were few vacancies in that geographic area and his previous application materials were not getting results – certainly a losing combination. His existing materials were heavily focused on environmental and cleanup factors instead of the planning and response skills needed for the target job. We completely revamped his materials with the proper focus and he found several viable vacancies that leveraged his experience and his direct hire eligibility. From start to finish, this job search success took around 90 days.

Hello Elizabeth,

Just want to thank you again and let you know I got the job at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a Emergency Response Specialist GS-11 in Atlanta, Georgia. This was the one I interviewed for and I start on 26 October. Thanks again.

Gordon

Writer/Coach: Elizabeth Juge

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Academic to Federal Jobseekers

WILDLIFE BIOLOGIST IS REFERRED TO DREAM JOB

9/8/2010

Jobseeker: Academia to Federal

Previous Job Title: University Research and Teaching Assistant

Referred to: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Environmental Contaminants Specialist

Strategy/Process: Client was a highly experienced wildlife biologist with past Federal experience and a strong academic background, who was ready to begin a full time Federal career in her chosen field. In close consultation with client, we developed a detailed resume that highlighted client’s multiple eligibilities for the target job and strong supporting former work experience.

“Just got an email requesting a phone interview tomorrow for the job. Yeah!”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

ACADEMIC TO FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ON FIRST ATTEMPT

8/1/2010

Jobseeker: Academic/Ph.D. to Fed

Previous Job Title: Graduate Student/Researcher

New Job Title: Health Insurance Specialist GS 11

Strategy/Process: Like most graduate students she had a lot of paid research jobs but it was hard to see solid work experience related to the position requirements. Her academic CV did not convey the experience in a way that Federal Human Resources could understand. This client had expertise in Medicaid and Medicare programs. She wrote her dissertation on it! By mapping out how the duties in her part-time positions and paid research positions matched the required knowledge, skills and abilities for the position and by emphasizing key words, we transformed the client’s academic CV into a winning federal resume. Client was interviewed and GOT THE JOB!

“Hi Karen, Excellent news – I start with CMS as a Health Insurance Specialist next Tuesday Oct 13! They hired me as a GS-11.

Thank you so much for your help. I know I wouldn’t have gotten this job without your highly competent and timely consulting. Your supportive demeanor and general graciousness were also very helpful, given the stress and confusion I felt as a newcomer to the world of federal job applications.

I’ve already recommended the Resume Place to one person who’s looking and I”ll continue to do so. I hope the Resume Place knows what a valuable employee they have in you.”

Writer/Coach: Karen Silberstein

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Student to Federal Jobseekers

COLLEGE SENIOR REFERRED TO US PARK POLICE

9/7/2010

Jobseeker: College Student to Fed

Previous Job Title: College Senior

Referred To: US Department of Interior National Park Service Park Police Officer

“Lex, I heard back from the Park Police and was invited to take the written examination …”

Strategy/Process: Client was a college senior with a strong interest in law enforcement. Although his work experience was short, it did include a summer internship with a local police department. We used a detailed write up of that experience as well as client’s major in Criminal Justice and the fact that he satisfied his target job’s physical requirements to craft a successful resume and cover letter that resulted in the client being referred.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

STUDENT RATED BEST QUALIFIED FOR FCIP AND SELECTED FOR INTERVIEW

7/1/2008

Jobseeker: Student to Federal Career Intern Program

Previous Job Title: Student

New Job Title: FCIP

Strategy/Process: Stephanie is a recent graduate with a master’s degree in public administration. She interned in a hospital in the human resources department and wanted to join the federal government through the Federal Career Intern Program, a two year program in the excepted service with conversion rights to the competitive service. The FCIP is one of the major entry points to the government. I worked closely with Stephanie to develop a strong resume that really showcased her skills and experience; we went from a one page private sector resume to a five page federal resume. We also worked to develop strong KSAs that highlighted Stephanie’s work experience and education and told her story using our CCAR rubric. Despite the fact that Stephanie does not have veteran’s preference, she started to get “hits” on her resume and KSAs right away. She has an upcoming interview for an HR FCIP position with the VA, her target agency.

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

RECENT GRAD GETS GS-9

6/15/2008

Jobseeker: Private sector to Federal

Previous Job Title: Student

New Position: Administrator, equivalent to grade 9, Board of Governors, Federal Reserve System

Strategy/Process: Daniel is a recent college graduate and working toward a master’s degree in HR. He had worked as a Personnel Assistant on a part time basis and then had several short term contractor positions for both the DC and federal government as an HR Assistant and in general administration. We worked together to prepare a resume to highlight his education and experience and relate it toward his target position. In less than four months, and without veteran’s preference Daniel was selected for a professional HR, grade 9 equivalent position in the competitive service. He is very excited to get his foot in the door and begin his federal sector career!

Writer/Coach: Nancy Segal

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Private Industry to Private Industry

LAID OFF IN SEPTEMBER, HIRED IN NOVEMBER: PRIVATE SECTOR SUCCESS

August-November 2011

Jobseeker: PI to PI

Previous Job Title: Private Sector Security Supervisor

New Job Title: Private Sector Security Supervisor

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

Strategy/Process: Client was an experienced Government and Corporate Security Specialist at risk for being laid off from her private sector job. We wrote a private sector resume that highlighted her diverse skill sets and long record of achievement in the security field, and used industry-specific terminology to showcase her industry experience throughout her resume.

“Hi Lex, Just want to give you an update and to tell you thank you for helping me with my resume. First, I was correct in thinking that I would be laid-off. I was laid-off the first week of September. I immediately started looking for a job. I received several interviews and job offers. I accepted a job the day before Thanksgiving. So I can honestly say that I had a lot to be thankful for.”

RESUME PLACE HELPS RABBI FIND NEW PULPIT

7/14/11

Client: P.J. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Private Industry to Private Industry

Previous Job Title: Rabbi & Spiritual Director, Baltimore, MD

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Pulpit Rabbi

Result: Hired!

“Lex and Kathryn,
Due in large part to the private Rabbinical Resume you created, a synagogue in Rumson, NJ, has offered me an interim position as rabbi for $132K for one year.”

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

IT MAVEN HIRED BY MAJOR CORPORATION!

7/14/11

Client: G.P. (first-time client)

Jobseeker: Private Industry to Private Industry

Previous Job Title: Senior IT Developer, Legg Mason

Applying to Job Series, Title & Grade: Senior IT professional, Lockheed Martin

Result: Hired!

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

LAID-OFF PARALEGAL GETS GREAT PRIVATE SECTOR JOB

3/24/11

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Private Sector

Previous Job Title: Senior Paralegal at a Baltimore Law Firm

New Job Title: Senior Paralegal for a National Finance Group in Columbia, MD

Strategy/Process: Client was a senior paralegal laid off due to the weak economy after 13 years with a prominent Baltimore law firm. She hired us to write for her a private sector resume as well as a Federal resume, intending to pursue both job search tracks. We interviewed her intensively about her private sector experience, and created a winning one page private sector resume that highlighted her skills, accomplishments, and contributions. Our client got a great private sector job so fast that we didn’t even have time to write her federal resume!

“Lex, I wanted to let you know that I landed a great job about 7 weeks ago. The paralegal position is w/XXX National Finance Group, very close to home, higher salary, stock options, better 401k and just about the same benefits. I even negotiated a 3 week vacation.”–J.P.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

A MOVE UP FOR A SALES TRAINER

6/1/10

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Private Sector

Previous Job Title: Sales Operations Manager / Sales Training Manager

Target Job Title: Training Manager / Director

Strategy/Process: I worked with Shannon in December 2009. At the time, she’d been with her employer for 16 years, and wanted to take her career to the next level. She applied for 25 jobs in five months, and was offered a higher-level job that will challenge her, with a salary increase. She started her new job on June 21, 2010. Her new job includes delivering, creating and developing all sales training and development materials/activities for the entire U.S. sales force of a global leader in health care and science.

“Hi Sarah -

I recently accepted a new position in Sales Training with a very large company as their Global Talent and Development Director for the U.S. I am very excited about the opportunity and it is exactly the type of job I wanted.

I wanted to thank you for your help with my resume, since that was a great help to get my foot in the door with the more than 5,000 resumes they received. It was tough interview process but in the end it all worked out and I got the job.

I thought you would like to hear the good news, and to let you know that I was extremely happy with the resume you created for me.” –Shannon

Writer/Coach: Sarah Blazucki

OUT OF WORK ACCOUNTANT LANDS NEW PRIVATE SECTOR JOB

4/1/10

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Federal or Private Sector

Previous Job Title: Financial Analyst

Target Job Title: Budget Analyst, Financial Analyst, Accounting Technician

Strategy/Process: I began working with Summer in October of 2009. She had been out of work for about five months. She had about five years of work experience, but only about 8 months of financial-related experience. She earned her MBA in 2008, so she was targeting GS-9 level federal positions or internships. Her private sector resume was very, very brief and included no accomplishments. We selected a great announcement and captured all the keywords in her new federal resume. I also helped her write a KSA for a DOT OIG Intern Program application. She was rated best qualified and selected for an interview, but was not offered a position. She began using her new resume to apply for private sector jobs, as well.

I also recommended interview coaching with Jessica Coffey, one of the members of our writing/coaching team, because Summer was not good at articulating her qualifications and accomplishments.

“Carla,

I have found a position as a Marketing Financial Analyst with a company in San Francisco, my target city. I like the job a lot. Thank you so much for your help in developing my federal resume. I believe the interview coaching helped a lot, too. I was not offered the internship position with DOT, but the good news is that I have had seven interviews lately with private sector companies. I believe that the resume made a big difference in opening the door for me. Thank you, Carla. I have shared my resume with some of my friends. Thank you for your excellent work.” –Summer

Writer/Coach: Carla Waskiewicz

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Schedule A Jobseekers

SCHEDULE A JOBSEEKER LANDS CONTRACT SPECIALIST POSITION WITH THE NAVY!

10/13/11

“Hello Kathryn,

I just wanted to let you know that I have started my new job as a Contract Specialist GS 1102 7/9/11 with the Department of Navy on Sept 26, 2011. I am in the process of filling out a lot of paper work and more paperwork.

The agency that selected me NAVSUP WSS (Weapon Systems Support) hired me under Schedule A authority where my primary job function will be negotiating prices and reward contracts to vendors that the Navy buys their Nuclear spare parts for the entire Nuclear Navy ships that the U.S. has.

I can’t begin to tell you how much I appreciate you and your staff in preparing me for my career path. My supervisor stated that the panel was very impressed with how prepared and knowledgeable I was about the agency. Again, thank you for pulling the information out of me. In the next few months I will be TDY in several states for several weeks learning about my job.

Please put my testimony up on your website so people will know how much your staff and you are invested in the success of your clients. I will keep you in touch and let you know how I’m doing at NAVSUP WSS.

Client for Life,

Desiree D. Meyers, NAVSUP WSS Harrisburg, Pa”

AFTER 162 APPLICATIONS, DISABLED JOBSEEKER ACCEPTS POSITION WITH THE IRS, FINDS SUCCESS, AND WINS AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN GOVERNMENT SERVICE!

8/23/11

Original Story: This client was on dialysis and needed to find a job with no pre-existing condition clauses in their health insurance. After submitting 162 federal job applications and obtaining the help of Kathryn Troutman and the team at The Resume Place, this client has progressed very well. They have written training manuals and worked as an instructor for the IRS, when not working as a team lead.

“Hello Ms. Troutman!

I wanted to touch base with you and tell you about how my career with the IRS has been going. On May 5th, 2011 I went to an awards luncheon that was held at the JFK Library here in Massachusetts. I was nominated for the Greater Boston Federal Executives Board award for Excellence in Government Service. I was in the new hire category. If you have worked for the federal government less than 5 years you fall into that category. I was up against people from all walks of the federal government. I was one of five nominated for the award. I didn’t win, but to be nominated was a great honor.

None of this would have been possible if it weren’t for you folks writing a resume that got me noticed and hired. Once again I would like to thank you and your staff for the work you put into my resume. None of this would have been possible if I were never hired.

Sincerely,
D.B.”

UNEMPLOYED DISABLED VET GETS 8 INTERVIEWS, LANDS FEDERAL JOB!

5/10/11

Jobseeker: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Unemployed, Former Federal Civilian Employee (GS-5)

New Job Title: Program Analyst, GS-0343-09/11, Department of Transportation

Strategy/Process: Client was a disabled veteran and former Federal employee struggling to find work after more than a year of unemployment. We partnered with client to describe his recent relevant volunteer activities during his period of job search and revised his earlier work experience, including emphasizing his prior Federal contracting and administrative service in the strongest possible manner, as well as highlighting his training, skills, awards and honors, and results achieved.

Hello Lex,

You are the gold standard as far as I am concerned when it comes to resume writing. I hope you are affirmed daily with loads of appreciation in your workplace! I have good news for you: thanks to your expertise and dynamite service, I have accepted a Federal position with the Department of Transportation, in the Federal Motor Carrier Administration! I couldn’t have done this without your amazing commitment and knowledge of the federal resume format and structure. Although I was skeptical about purchasing a $700 resume, after working with you — I realize just how invaluable a service it is that you provide! I remember at one point in the process I asked you for a civilian resume, (just in case the Federal Resume didn’t do the trick); well I never even needed it! My federal resume, which you provided out of your awesome arsenal of experience, knowledge and ability, landed me 8 interviews out of 145 applications, two of my interviews were in New York City, of all places! I am so happy to have had the pleasure of working with The Resume Place, and you especially, Mr. Levin! You came across during this process as always kind, always interested, and always calm and under control. Unemployment is a scary place, but unless you’re unemployed yourself, it may be hard to truly appreciate the pain and uncertainty that unemployment can bring. Luckily for me, I had Lex Levin. I really enjoyed working with you. Trust me when I tell you — YOU ROCK at what you do!” –C.J.

Writer/Coach: Lex Levin

PRIVATE INDUSTRY CAREER COUNSELOR TRANSITIONS TO HR SPECIALIST WITH NIH!

10/4/10

Jobseeker:: Private to Federal

Previous Job Title: Career Consultant, Gallaudet University

New Job Title: GS-9, Human Resources Specialist, National Institutes of Health

Strategy/Process: Client is an experienced professional within the fields of Career Counseling, Special Emphasis and Diversity, and Vocational Rehabilitation. He possesses extensive knowledge of employment and disability as well as Federal, state, and local laws. He is also very proficient in the identification of training needs, development of training, and deployment. He attained a Master of Arts Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling in May of 2008 with an exceptional GPA of 3.97 out of 4.0.

“I wanted to take a moment to thank you for your help with my resume. As a result of your hard work, I landed 5 interviews with federal agencies and had to turn down another one. I got a job offer with the NIH and accepted their offer. Originally, they interviewed me for HR assistant, but I did so well at my interview that they called me the next day and said they wanted to consider me for the HR specialist position. I start my new job on October 12 as a Human Resources Specialist!

I found that the recent hiring reforms did indeed help. I had to do KSAs before I did two interviews with NIH (on the phone for the initial screening, then also in person).

I have received a number of compliments on my resume during my interviews. I have beenreferring people to The Resume Place as a result of my success.

Again thank you for your help!

–N.P.”

Writer/Coach: Sandy Keppley

AFTER ONLY 1 RESUME SUBMISSION, DISABLED VETERAN LANDS PERMANENT POSITION!

3/1/09

Previous Job Title:Volunteer for the Veteran’s Advocacy Organization for 15 years

New Job Title: Veteran’s Service Representative

Strategy/Process Client is a disabled veteran of the first Gulf War, certified as 100% disabled, although you would not know this to look at him or talk with him. When we first met, he had not held paid employment in YEARS, but had been volunteering his time to help other veterans apply for benefits, appeal ratings decisions, etc.

Through this strictly VOLUNTEER work, he had met some people at the VA who encouraged him to apply for a Veterans Service Representative job so he would get paid for this type of work, but he really needed good materials that showed his qualifications based on his volunteer work. I think he found us through one of Kathryn Troutman’s books. With very little paid employment history, he had NO confidence even though he was very well qualified.

We wrote a resume for him as well as 5 KSAs using some of his clients’ stories and he was hired for the very first job he applied for and is still there.

We get a lot of calls from veterans who are really confused by the federal application process. Additionally, it seems that many people do not realize that they can make a career transition based on volunteer work AND that a major gap in employment is not necessarily detrimental.

Writer/Coach: Mary Carroll-Mason

* * * * * * Earlier Stories * * * * * *

STORY FOR THE DISCOURAGED

January 2009

Success story and email based on the Federal Resume Guidebook INSPIRATION and instructions …

“Dear Kathryn,

I consider myself a professional writer. I’ve written articles and stories for publication, and figured I could swing my own resume. I scoffed at any type of professional help. Writing was just one area of strength in my current GS-07 government position, but I was ready to move up. And I searched, and applied, for 2 long years. I got 1 interview, no hires, and made the referral list about 5 times in 15 or so applications. A few attractive positions opened, and this time, quite discouraged and frustrated, I wasn’t taking any chances. I couldn’t squander anymore opportunities that were local because I was in no position to uproot and move from state to state for the right vacancy. So I bit the bullet and purchased the Federal Resume Guidebook. I read it in one sitting, and used the tips, tricks, and supplemental information to tweak up the resume I had worked so hard on.

In a matter of a couple hours, I thought it was ready for prime time and applied for 3 separate 9 / 11 positions. I made the referral list for all three, and got an interview call within weeks for one of them. I used the book to prepare for my behavioral interview, and nailed it, and got the job offer yesterday. I certainly can’t believe the results I encountered by simply applying the book. If I had bought it earlier and overruled my ego, I might be writing this letter much sooner. But I’m so very happy to write it now, and recommend the book to anyone who visits this site–the guidebook is worth every penny for federal employees looking for opportunity. Get the book. It’s the best investment you can make in your career.

Sincerely,

Fred V.”

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CLIENT MANAGER AT A TOP U.S. FINANCIAL INSTITUTION LANDS PROCUREMENT ANALYST JOB AT DHHS

February 2009

Jobseeker: Private Sector to Federal

Previous Job Title: Premier Client Manager at a top U.S. financial institution

Target Job Title: Financial Analyst, Compliance Specialist

New Federal Job Title: Procurement Analyst, GS-1102-12 DHHS, Washington, DC

“Hello Kathryn,

I want to first start by saying THANK YOU for assigning me to Carla Waskiewicz. She is the best. I started working with her in October of 2008. She worked with me to transition my resume from private to federal. She is GREAT. She worked with me daily and helped me compose the best resume ever! She helped me with KSA editing and even job searching. She was always prompt in her responses and she was very patient with me. I applied to only 2-3 positions before being selected for an interview for a position as GS-12 Procurement Analyst with the Dept of Health & Human Services DHHS. I was offered the job AND a salary increase of $10K over my private sector salary. I will strongly recommend your company and especially Carla to family and friends.

Thanks again.” –L.B.

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PRIVATE SECTOR CONSULTANT LANDS NEW JOB WITHIN THREE MONTHS

May 2009

Jobseeker: Private Sector seeking Federal or Private Sector Position

Previous Job Title: Organizational Consultant, Financial & Business Process Analyst

Target Job Title: Federal Program Analyst; PI: Fraud Examiner/Forensic Accountant

“Dear Carla, I just wanted to thank you for the excellent private sector and federal resumes you created for my job search. It was clearly the key to being selected for an interview and landing a new job so quickly in very tough economy. My new position as Partner with an accounting advisory and consulting firm that works with Federal and law enforcement agencies and banks is the perfect job for me. You are truly talented and I appreciate your abilities to underscore and market my strengths in a professional manner.”

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FEDERAL EMPLOYEE SERVING AS ACTING GS-12 BUDGET ANALYST RECEIVES PROMOTION

April 14, 2009

“Thank you for helping me to update my federal resume for the position of Budget Analyst (0560-12) available with my current federal employer, the USAG. I just wanted to let you know that I was offered the position on a permanent basis and I have accepted. It has been a pleasure to work with the Resume Place since 2001!” –CC

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John Leszczynski, November 2008

The Resume Place helped me complete a significant career change. I was employed for almost 20 years as a professional chef. As the years wore on so did my body. I decided to move to federal employment and went to one of Kathryn’s information sessions. We met about a month later and started to explore ways to convert my career information into a federal resume. It was a challenge, because a good federal resume is a whole different animal from a good private sector one. Kathryn matched me with an excellent writer and about a year after contacting Kathryn, I landed a Program Analyst position with FEMA (GS 11). I was promoted to a GS 12 within 16 months after that. I really believe that without Kathryn’s help, I wouldn’t be where i am today…..Thanks again.

Doug W, February 2009

My hat is off to The Resume Place. I am a 62 year old architect with a 30 year private practice that fell victim to the economy. After two months and 9 resume submittals with limited success, I discovered you online and finally learned how to speak “government”. After your coaching, cajoling, and editing, I submitted six more applications. The end result: six “referrals” for further consideration, 3 interviews so far, and better yet: my accepting this morning a GS 13 position. They offered me a GS 13-1, but with your advice, I negotiated a step 5! The money I spent with you was the best money I ever spent. No, make that “invested”. Thank you so very much.

Mayra Pangborn, July 2008

I want to THANK YOU so much for all of your hard work on my resume. You will be glad to know that I was selected for the position I applied for last month (Jun 08) as a Criminal Intelligence Analyst. There were 126 applicants. It has been a long wait, but definitely worth it. I appreciate what you have done for me more than you know.

Cynthia Benoit, June 2007

You may remember that you helped me with some interview coaching for a USDA position about 1 1/2-2 weeks ago. The interview went well, close to what you described. The information you gave me was very helpful. Yesterday I was offered the position, and I have accepted. We will be moving to Puerto Rico in a few weeks.

Pai Yei, Feb 2008

Regarding EPA, I was interviewed for all three positions. I received a call from the Science Advisor for EPA to inform me that I am the “preferred” selection for the Chief Scientist position. I am still absorbing it, and again, thank you for your help!

Marci Ward, Feb 2008

Yes, this is all very exciting and wonderful!!! I am still on cloud 9!!! []’s help throughout this process has been invaluable!!! I originally applied for this position (open continuous) 11/14/07 at 2:37 p.m. and officially accepted my new wonderful job on 2/15/08 around 3:47 p.m. I will absolutely recommend you guys to anyone who is looking to be a successful job hunter!!!

F.S., February 2008

Thank you for your assistance in this. I wanted to inform you that I scored a 100 with my application and I started yesterday. Thanks again. I have already encouraged others to use your service.

Roya Mortazavi, December 2007

As you were aware, yesterday morning I went for a job interview onsite to meet everyone at the Dept. of Interior. To my surprise, everything went so smoothly. At the end of the day, I accepted the job. The most important thing is, to thank you for working so hard for me and guiding me through all these confusing rules and regulations. I thank you for listening to me and being so patient with me and my problems. I will never ever forget you. You played an important role in my life, and I owe this job to you. As long as I am able to work and function, I will keep your phone number with me. I do not know what will happen in the future, but if I need to change my job within federal jobs, I will definitely give you a call to upgrade my resume. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart.

Valerie Armstrong-Cezar, January 2009

Last October, my husband finally got hired on as a federal employee! The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives picked him up as a regulation writer of all things. He was pretty surprised since his resume doesn’t expressly reflect any writing experience but they are willing to teach him what he needs to know. The people who interviewed him really liked him and thought he was a good fit for their team. So he has been happily employed for the last few months.

Amy, CT, January 2009

I want to thank you and Elizabeth very much for all of your hard work on my resume and KSAs. I was in the federal system at one point and then left the federal system for a private job. After a few years, I wanted to get back in to the federal system, but I was not having any luck in the application process. So after three years of sending out resumes for federal jobs, I decided to contact you for help. Within five months of meeting with you and Elizabeth, I applied for a position with the federal government and had an offer. Your attention to detail and guidance in the federal resume format was extremely beneficial and I look forward to working with you and your staff in the future. Thanks again for your help!

Andy Del Collo, June 2008

It took almost a year but I did finally get the job. There were about 10 applicants and then 4 interviews. I got feedback from one of the selection panel members that my resume was the best one he has seen at clearly stating my experiences and accomplishments. Thanks for all your help.

Bradley M. Weiss, May 2008 on being selected for Program Manager, GS-15, CBP Office of the Commissioner

FYI- Lots of good news today.

L.B., February 2009, hired as Procurement Analysis GS-12 at DHHS

I want to first start by saying THANK YOU. [My resume writer/coach] is the best. I started working with her in October of 2008. She worked with me to transition my resume from private to federal. She is GREAT. She worked with me daily and helped me compose the best resume ever! She helped me with KSA editing and even job searching. She was always prompt in her responses and she was very patient with me. I applied to only 2-3 positions before being selected for an interview for a position as GS-12 Procurement Analyst with the Dept of Health & Human Services DHHS. I was offered the job AND a salary increase of $10K over my private sector salary. I will strongly recommend your company to family and friends.

Happy New Year to you and yours! It’s been a while since last we spoke and I realize I didn’t tell you that, last October, my husband finally got hired on as a federal employee! The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives picked him up as a regulation writer of all things. He was pretty surprised since his resume doesn’t expressly reflect any writing experience but they are willing to teach him what he needs to know. The people who interviewed him really liked him and thought he was a good fit for their team. So the husband has been happily employed for the last few months.

Work is still going well for me at the Department of Transportation. Now that OPM has done away with the time-in-grade regulation, I plan on pursuing other positions at a higher grades regardless of being a GS-7 (soon to be 9 by May). Which does lead to my next question: how much it is to have my resume updated with my current position?

With the new administration coming in soon, I’m sure you are busy with new clients and getting them ready for potential federal employment. When you have time, I would love to discuss what it would take to get some work done on my resume.

Thank you!

Valerie Armstrong-Cezar