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Preparing a resume for a federal job requires a unique approach compared to typical corporate resumes. Whether you’re a current federal employee or new to the federal government, your resume is the primary way to communicate your education, skills, and experience. Follow these steps to create a compelling federal resume that can help you secure your desired position.

Before You Get Started

First, read the entire job announcement thoroughly. Focus on the following sections to determine if you qualify for the position:

• Duties and Qualifications
• How to Apply (including a preview of the assessment questionnaire, if applicable)
• How You Will be Evaluated

Make sure you meet the required experience and/or education before applying. Job announcements describe the job and its required qualifications, including:

• Level and amount of experience
• Education
• Training

What to Include in Your Resume

Federal jobs often require specific experience for a set period. To be considered, you must show how your skills and experiences meet the qualifications and requirements listed in the job announcement.

Include Important Contact Information

Always include your current contact information. Most job applications require:

• Address
• Email
• Phone number

Carefully read the job opportunity to ensure you include all required contact information.

Provide Dates, Hours, Level of Experience, and Examples for Each Work Experience

For each work experience listed, include:

• Start and end dates (including the month and year)
• Number of hours worked per week
• Level and amount of experience (e.g., project manager or team member)
• Examples of relevant experiences and accomplishments proving you can perform the tasks at the required level

Example

Lead Engineer GS-343-11
May 2020—Present
40 Hours/Week
$185,000/Year

Experience/Accomplishment

• Improved efficiency of document processing by 25% over the previous year.
• Managed a student organization budget of more than $7,000.

Include Volunteer Work and Roles in Community Organizations

Don’t limit yourself to paid work experience. Include relevant volunteer work or roles in community organizations that demonstrate your ability to do the job.

Use Numbers to Highlight Your Accomplishments

Quantify your accomplishments with numbers, percentages, or dollars. Examples include:

• “Improved efficiency of document processing by 25% over the previous year.”
• “Wrote 25 news releases in a three-week period under daily deadlines.”
• “Managed a student organization budget of more than $7,000.”
• “Wrote prospect letter that has brought in more than $25,000 in donations to date.”

Customize Your Resume

Tailor your resume to the job announcement rather than using the same resume for every job. Customizing helps match your competencies, knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience to each job’s requirements.

Use Similar Terms and Address Every Required Qualification

Your experience must address every required qualification in the job announcement. Hiring agencies look for specific terms to verify your experience.

For example, if the qualifications section states you need experience with “MS Project,” you must use the term “MS Project” in your resume.

Organize Your Resume to Make It Easy to Understand

Organize your resume to help agencies evaluate your experience. Use reverse chronological order to list your experience, starting with the most recent. Provide greater detail for relevant experience, and use plain language—avoid acronyms and terms that are not easily understood.

Be Concise

Hiring agencies often receive numerous resumes. Hiring managers quickly skim submissions to eliminate unqualified candidates. Ensure your main credentials are visible within 10 to 15 seconds. Critical information should stand out, especially at the top of the first page.

Review Your Resume Before You Apply

Check your resume for spelling and grammatical errors. Have someone else review it to ensure accuracy and clarity.

Important Facts About the Federal Hiring Process

• The federal government does not have a standard job application; your resume is your application.
• Job announcements describe the job and list the required qualifications and responsibilities.
• After applying, hiring agencies use your resume to verify your qualifications.
• Qualified applicants may undergo further assessments, such as interviews or testing, to determine the best candidates.

FAQs About Federal Resumes

1. How long should a federal resume be?

A federal resume is typically longer than a corporate resume, often ranging from 4 to 6 pages.

2. Should I include references on my federal resume?

Yes, you should include contact information for at least three references.

3. Do I need to tailor my resume for each federal job application?

Absolutely. Tailoring your resume to the specific job announcement is crucial for highlighting the most relevant experience and skills.

4. What if I don’t have a lot of federal experience?

Even if you don’t have federal experience, highlight relevant work from other sectors. Focus on transferable skills and accomplishments.

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