Tips for Writing a Federal Resume

Tips for Writing a Federal Resume

Creating a federal resume that brings your qualifications to life and shows that you are a perfect fit for the job can be a challenge. Be sure to demonstrate how your skills, experience, training and education match the employer's needs. Avoid misspelled words and bad grammar.

Federal Resumes vs Private Sector Resumes:

Just wanted to share a few tips I found online from the Department of Homeland Security on ways to have your resume stick out. Note, this is not the format to use for a job applying outside of the Federal system.

1- Include the job announcement number, job title and job grade on your resume

2- Veterans: Ensure that you attach or upload supporting documentation (e.g., DD214 or Statement of Service if still on Active Duty; SF-15, Application for 10-point preference; and Disability Rating Letter of 30% or more from the VA, if applicable).

3- When writing your federal resume, be sure to include all relevant experience. It is common for federal resumes to be longer than average, so do not cut out important details to try to fit your resume to one to two pages. A good federal resume should clearly outline your key work, volunteer experiences, academic accomplishments as well as extra-curricular activities. It should also highlight the unique skills that set you apart and make you uniquely qualified for the position.

4- Current job-related certificates and licenses - Make sure you understand the licensure and certification requirements for your job objective.

Overall, share your value preposition in the resume and use the words found in the job description you are applying for. You may have a resume per job application depending on the changes in the posting.

For more, visit https://www.dhs.gov/homeland-security-careers/tips-writing-federal-resume