If you’re planning to apply for a government job, you may already know that the process can be extremely competitive.
For example, there are more than two million people currently on the government hiring rolls in the United States alone, and that number continues to grow every year.
Because of this high level of competition, you may be wondering how to get selected for a government job. Luckily, with these five tips, you can increase your chances of getting hired by any branch of the federal government or any state or local agency as well.
1) Have an online presence
1. Research the agencies where you want to work and build a list of your preferred positions in these agencies
2. Put together an online portfolio and résumé
3. Seek out government agencies that are most aligned with your field of expertise, using sites like USAJOBS or Monster Government Jobs
4. Make sure your social media profiles are professional; take down pictures or other postings that might reflect poorly on you
5. Tailor your résumé by making sure the skills you list in the achievements section of your résumé match those sought after by the position you're applying for. When possible, include quantifiable data such as figures and percentages to support your accomplishments.
7. Update your cover letter by highlighting how your background matches the requirements listed in the job posting.
8. Take time to review applications submitted before yours.
9. Follow up with hiring managers to show interest.
10. Be yourself! Be genuine about why you would be a good fit for the position.
11. Don't be afraid to get creative and go above and beyond.
2) Give yourself time
Government jobs are tough to find, but there are some tricks you can use when applying. For example, make sure your cover letter is as specific as possible about what you want in the job.
Always make sure your application is complete and covers every aspect of the job description. Keep up with the status of your application by always checking on it, and remember that all applications will take time!
When you finally do get selected for an interview, be prepared: have your resume ready and research any topics related to the position before so you know how to answer questions. Prepare answers to questions like why do you want this job? and tell me about yourself.
Lastly, if you're not chosen for the interview, don't be discouraged. Many government positions require extensive background checks that can delay your selection or even disqualify you from being considered entirely.
Be patient and give yourself plenty of time to prepare before submitting your first application!
3) Have good grades
Having good grades is probably the most obvious, yet important step in any job hunt. First and foremost, it's crucial that you maintain at least a 3.0 GPA.
Not only will employers look at your GPA as an indicator of your intelligence and work ethic, but many govt jobs won't even consider someone without this minimum requirement.
Additionally, the type of degree you pursue should reflect the profession you're interested in pursuing.
For example, most govt positions require four years of study (or more) in either business administration or liberal arts-type degrees such as public policy or history; degrees with math and science coursework may not be ideal since these typically fall under IT or engineering professions and many govt jobs require knowledge of things like economics.
Additionally, take note of how well your major aligns with government needs. If you're interested in being a social worker for instance, then get a degree in sociology or psychology.
The idea here is to identify what kind of interests you have so that you can find out what area might best suit your skillset.
For example: do you want to work on regulatory matters? Then maybe getting a law degree would be helpful.
But one thing to keep in mind is that while strong grades are important, they are just one piece of the puzzle and experience can also compensate if grades aren't so good.
4) Apply with confidence
Trying to navigate the world of federal jobs can be daunting. With these 5 tips, you can go into the process with confidence. These tips cover everything from resume and cover letter etiquette, to interview preparation, and best interviewing practices so don't fret!
Learn more about government jobs at www.usajobs.gov or by calling your local office to set up an appointment. Apply online and find out how soon you will hear back.
Your application will automatically be reviewed for job qualifications when it is submitted online through USA JOBS or OFCCP; however, there are additional requirements such as resumes being in the correct format, a completed online questionnaire that includes education information, professional experience statements that include dates and positions held, plus other requirements depending on position sought.
Make sure all of this is complete before submitting your application.
The typical timeline for hiring decision timelines varies based on vacancy announcements which may range from 7-14 days for initial review to 7-30 days for a final decision and can take longer if interviews are involved.
Contact the agency directly to inquire about specific vacancy announcement timelines and procedures. Depending on whether or not an applicant has been selected for consideration, they will either receive a message indicating they have been referred to human resources or they will receive notification of their disqualification (regardless of qualifications).
Every time I apply for a new position I always try to make myself stand out from the crowd. My advice would be to do your research beforehand: know what you're applying for and what skillsets are required.
Another tip would be to reach out and speak with someone who works at the agency about their experiences working there it'll give you some valuable insight into whether or not it's worth pursuing the opportunity.
For example, have any family members worked there?
What was their work/life balance like? How did they feel about their day-to-day responsibilities?
I am an adventurous person that likes exploring, new projects and new ideas. I want to learn as much as possible, govt job. I am willing to take the time and patience necessary to get the results you need.
I am dedicated and responsible, so any task assigned to me will always be completed on time and with 100% quality! I'm also very creative and have some great ideas of my own if you need any fresh input!
I really enjoy learning about people and hearing their stories, so I can offer help where it is needed most.
In addition to these qualities, I would say that one of my best skills is being adaptable in unfamiliar situations or around difficult people- something every government worker has to deal with at one point or another!
Lastly, having studied this blog post helped me identify what qualities are most important for a government worker: responsibility and dedication; curiosity; a sense of humor; ability to work well under pressure.
These are all qualities I possess and feel confident would make me a perfect fit for your open position! Feel free to contact me if you want more information or would like to meet up. Thank you for reading!
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