There’s no scarcity in government jobs because these agencies will always be here to stay. If you browse through the job openings you will find there are positions available that pay way over $100,000. Most of the positions would pay around $50,000-$60,000 on the average. Plus the benefits are awesome! So you see, it’s not a bad idea to look into a career with the government.

Heads up though, applying for a government job is completely different from the usual applications for private companies. Application for a government job involves a lot of detail…and I mean a LOT of detail! Browse through the description for each of the job openings and you’d see what I mean. Prepare to be bombarded with a really long and comprehensive list of items that would tell you everything about the job and what’s needed from you.

So what do you need to create a resume fit for a government job?

Follow instructions. This is very crucial. Failing to comply with this simple item can get your resume tossed out real quick. Instructions are very specific, read them carefully and follow them all to the letter. Applications for a government job do not really require you to use the resume builder available in the USAJOBS.gov website. You do have the option to write your own resume. However, if it was specified that you include personal information and details of your education from high school to your highest degree attained then by all means, do so.

Whatever you do, don’t forget any details. Although your resume would also most likely go through a 15 second scan either by a human or a machine, your resume will still be evaluated thoroughly after you make the initial cut. Make sure that you include all the important details of your skills and work experiences that can show your qualification and parallel match for the job. Yes, even the long gaps in between or the short stints you accepted.

Be truthful. On the Optional Application for Federal Employment (OF 612 Form), you’ll find notes that will consistently remind you NOT to write false information. Background checks are extensive, so make sure that all information you include holds true.

Incorporate words used in the ad. Knowledge, skills and abilities are highly taken into account. A big part of the application will require you to include essays stating how you compete in certain key areas required for the job. Make sure your resume addresses those requirements by incorporating exact words used in the job ad. Machines and humans scanning your resume will be on the lookout for keywords (so make sure they find PLENTY).

If you’re not a detail-oriented person then now is a good time to start! If you really want to land a job in the government, there are a whole lot of details you need to present and questions you need to address all throughout the application process. Good luck!

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This entry was posted on Thursday, June 17th, 2010 at 12:30 pm and is filed under Applying for a Job, Career Changes, Job & Interview Questions, Job Search Tips, Promotions, Resume, Resume Do's and Don'ts, Resume Help, how to write a resume. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.