As we continue to see major cutbacks across the federal government, both cleared and uncleared, many states and organizations are offering support and resources for those laid off workers.
Tune in to this podcast where we highlight all the resources.
Leaders across industries are highlighting companies and recruiters hiring, hosting online workshops and offering legal seminars so workers know their rights.
Virginia Resources
For workers living and who were working in the Virginia area, here are some resources to check out.
Statewide resources for federal workers in Virginia.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s office notes that the state of Virginia has 250,000 open jobs, including 100,000 in Northern Virginia.
Webinars and Connections.
Arlington officials also have highlighted online resource libraries like Virginia Workforce Connection, Virginia Career Works, and Work in Northern Virginia: Resources and Webinars.
Unemployment benefits.
The Virginia Employment Commission is available to help bridge the gap for federal workers who have been let go. The weekly benefit is $387. (*note, you should apply for unemployment in Virginia, even if you live in D.C., Maryland or somewhere else, if: your last official duty station was in Virginia; or you’re a Virginia resident whose last official duty station was outside of the United States; or you’re a Virginia resident who was separated from federal employment and afterward worked in non-federal employment in Virginia). You can find Maryland’s unemployment site here and D.C.’s here.
ClearanceJobs Resources
Not specific to geographic location, ClearanceJobs has the following resources for not just federal workers, but anyone in the job search.
1. ClearanceJobs LIVE
These engaging videos via ClearanceJobs.com offer advice, Q&A direct with recruiters at companies, and other key takeaways for candidates in the market, both passive and active. View and RSVP to LIVE events here.
2. ClearanceJobs career events
ClearanceJobs career events are designed to bring government contractors and federal government agencies, and highly qualified cleared talent together. They are 100% free for job seekers. Attending these career events is a great way to bolster your job seeking efforts, enabling you to meet recruiters and hiring managers from companies and organizations actively looking to fill immediate jobs requiring security clearance and possibly polygraph. View the schedule here.
3. FedWork.Net
Missing Federal Soup right about now? In addition to the ClearanceJobsBlog.com discussion thread (more for security clearance stories and questions), ClearanceJobs launched the new network, discussion board, and messaging platform for federal workers – FedWork.Net. Create an account here.
Translating a Federal Resume to Civilian
Transitioning from a federal job to a civilian role can be a significant change, especially when it comes to your resume. The structure and content of a federal resume differ considerably from those of a civilian resume. While a defense contract recruiter would likely be fine looking at a federal resume, there are simple ways you can transition your resume to the private sector.
Federal resumes are typically much longer and more detailed than civilian resumes. They often include:
- Job Series and Grade Level: Specific to federal positions, these may not be relevant to civilian employers.
- Detailed Job Descriptions: Federal resumes often contain comprehensive narratives of job duties and achievements.
- Format and Length: Federal resumes can be several pages long, while civilian resumes are typically one to two pages.
1. Condense and Prioritize Information
Civilian employers look for concise resumes. Focus on the most relevant experiences and skills without losing the relevant keywords or experiences that allow you to meet the minimum requirements for the job descriptions. Place more emphasis on roles and accomplishments that align with the civilian job you’re targeting.
2. Translate Terminology
Federal positions often use jargon that may not be familiar to civilian employers. Replace terms like “GS-12” or “Series 0560” with plain language that describes your role or expertise.
3. Customize for Each Application
Tailor your resume for each job application by emphasizing different skills and experiences; Incorporate specific keywords from the job description to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and mirror the language and requirements mentioned in the civilian job posting.
Remember, the goal is to clearly communicate your value and how your federal experience aligns with the needs of potential civilian employers so you can get them on the phone to really wow them.
