Writing A Federal Resume
Writing A Federal Resume
When it comes time to respond to that Federal job opening, you need to send a resume designed for that purpose. There is a large difference between a Federal resume and one used in the civilian sector. Federal resumes require much more information and other details showing how you qualify for the position. Here are some details about how you should go about writing a Federal resume.
You need, first, to make sure that you read the qualifications for the position in the ad. Besides giving the job title and type of work, this information will be followed by rather specific qualifications that any would-be candidate must meet. These are expected to eliminate those that do not meet the criteria - so if you do not measure up - look for another position. Don't waste your time applying for a Federal job position you are not qualified to do - you will not get it.
A standard form was quite suitable for the purpose of supplying the job position with the required information. This form was called the SF 171. Now it has been more or less replaced with the newer Optional Form OF 612. This newer form actually reduces some of the information that you need to supply the government. Other changes, though, may require you to submit one of that particular agencys forms for an application. This means that you will need to check with that agency's Web site beforehand to make sure you follow their instructions.
Be sure that you answer all of the information required. Other paperwork will probably be asked for - such as a KSA. With each job opening, there may be up to six KSA's that are specifically requested. This simply refers to your knowledge, skills, and abilities - generally looking for information about your achievements, education, certifications, etc. This requires that you write a paragraph or two about any specific KSA that is asked for. It will show why you are the best candidate for the position, so you do not want to leave any KSA requirement unanswered. You want to answer all KSA's carefully and with much attentiveness to detail - probably the more information is the better way to go, rather than to supply too little. The truth is that a Federal resume will show that you are generally qualified for the job, but it is the KSA's that prove you best fit the exact position. Each KSA receives a grade from the HR manager - so they need to be just as well written as your resume.
Another feature of major importance that needs to be put into the Federal resume is having the right keywords. Resumes are often put into computers and then they are all scanned by keywords. Generally, a resume must have several keywords in order for the computer to have it show up at all. You will find most of the needed keywords in the ad itself. It is very important that you especially use them - if you want the government job.
It is also important to note the location of the job. Generally the location will be listed, as well as whether or not expenses for relocation will be given. Be sure to note your response concerning relocation on your Federal resume if you do not live in the area.
You will also need to supply information about whether or not you are claiming military preference with the job application, and if you had prior Federal job experience. All information will need to be verified if you actually become a candidate for the position, and you will need to fill out and sign the proper form.
In order to make sure that your Federal resume gets the attention it deserves, you may want to have a professional resume service write your Federal resume. They know all the things that make it stand out so you look good to the potential employer - and their computer. After all, you may have only one chance at your dream job.
