Getting Federal Jobs Overview: Employment in the federal government, especially in regulatory agencies that oversee the financial sector, is booming, particularly in the wake of the 2010 Dodd-Frank financial overhaul bill. The process of getting federal jobs has some key differences from seeking private sector employment.
Where to Look for Federal Jobs: The official central website for federal jobs is USA Jobs. However, note that not all federal jobs are listed here. Some agencies prefer to confine many of their job postings to their own websites.
Temporary Federal Jobs: Consider "term" and "temporary hire" federal jobs as a means to make contacts and gain experience that may help with obtaining a permanent position later.
Creating Resumes for Federal Jobs: The federal government typically looks for longer resumes than the private sectors, with 3 to 5 pages being standard. Focus on describing accomplishments, especially successes relevant to the federal position being sought, rather than on mere recitations of your past job descriptions and responsibilities. If you are seeking a job in a regulatory agency, you can help your cause considerably if you can discuss, in detail, how you developed familiarity with relevant federal laws, regulations and guidelines in the course of your previous employment.
KSA Questions for Federal Jobs: Once you pass initial screening, applying for many federal jobs involves writing essays about your proficiency in certain KSA (Knowledge, Skills and Ability) areas. For example, you may be asked to describe your skill in verbal or written communications. The more thorough and literate the responses, and the better they reference past experience, the more likely you are to get the job.
Background Checks for Federal Jobs: Background checks can be expected for many jobs, and definitely those that require security clearance. Lying on an application or trying to conceal pertinent information, such as arrest records, is likely to be uncovered, and is guaranteed to cost you any chase at the job.
Networking for Getting Federal Jobs: Networking is just as important in finding and getting federal jobs as it is with job seeking in the private sector. Utilize social networking tools to find friends, former colleagues and fellow alumni of your schools who work in the agencies at which you are looking, to get their advice and possibly their recommendations.
Cover Letters for Federal Jobs: Cover letters can be very important for getting federal jobs. Offer a cogent story about why you want to move from the private sector to the public sector. In particular, show enthusiasm for the agency's mission and for getting an opportunity to work for the public good.
Source: "How to Get a Job in Financial Regulation", by Julie Steinberg, The Wall Street Journal Digital Network, FINS, 7/28/2010.
