You applied for a security clearance, the background investigation is underway, and now, you wait. Depending on your clearance level, a decision can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. While patience is a virtue, the waiting game is never fun, especially when your career in the security and defense industry hangs in the balance. Frustration and anxiety are natural reactions to uncertainty, but here are a few tips to keep in mind to make the waiting game a bit more manageable.
UNDERSTAND THE PROCESS
A comprehensive vetting process is crucial to our national security and the safety of government employees, contractors, and civilians alike. Factors such as the complexity of the background check, the volume of applications, and changes in regulations can all contribute to processing delays. Remember, you are not alone in this situation; countless others are also stuck in limbo.
ENSURE YOUR DOCUMENTATION IS ORGANIZED
Take the opportunity to gather any additional documentation that might be requested. Being proactive and staying organized can help expedite the process once your application is under review.
STAY IN TOUCH WITH YOUR FSO
Reaching out to your Facility Security Officer won’t speed up the process, but it will ensure you remain top of mind. They can answer your questions, and if necessary, reach out to their government partners to check on your status.
FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL
While it may feel like your entire life is in limbo, it’s not. Shift your attention to aspects of your life that you can control. Engage in hobbies, invest time in self-improvement or spend time with loved ones. Maintaining a positive outlook and pursuing personal growth can mitigate the stress of waiting.
Remember that the waiting game is temporary and that your diligence and cooperation will ultimately contribute to a thorough and accurate clearance process. In the meantime, seek temporary employment or ask your company if there are non-cleared projects you can work on. To keep up to date on the latest security and defense news, visit ClearanceJobs.com.
