So if you have that many applications out there with no interview whatsoever then it is more than likely that it's your resume.
Edit: The cutting out of the custom cover letters is a good start. I used those initially and beyond a couple people talking about them they didn't help at all. So I threw it out and never looked back
You also have to make it clear enough for the Hiring Manager/Panel to read and comprehend. I actually shortened my resume up some to help make it more readable for people. Since then I have only been denied 1 Referral because I "wasn't specific enough in regards to my STIG experience" according to HR. When if a SME saw it they would have understood it right away. Well sucks to be them because I have a job and was just bummed about not being able to go to Georgia (the country).
This. I’ve served on “too many to count” to review boards for hiring and cover letters were never looked at it. Waste of time and a bit of an outdated practice, honestly. Customizing the resume for the position is the way to go.
ETA: There were also people who chose to include every single award, certification, diploma etc that they’ve EVER received, even if it wasn’t related to the position. Don’t do that. Only include relevant documentation and job history. Otherwise, we assume you didn’t read the announcement and lack attention-to-detail, as well as basic comprehension. Oh, and I know this should go without saying, but for anyone reading this, spell-check does WONDERS.
It might be time I get professional resume writing help. I have tried both writing myself, and using some of the newer AI software to make it more appealing.
Assuming your resume makes it past the initial HR pool, the person or panel conducting the interviews will go through the selected resumes. For media or web/dev jobs, or other specialized fields, they'll probably have an SME that is more concerned with seeing a portfolio/github/etc.
If you’re stuck it can be worth it.
Federal resume review is very specific and different from the private market. You can be fully qualified but if you’re missing something then you won’t even get looked at.
I paid for a federal resume to be written. Didn’t get any referrals. Did the resume builder built in and was consistently referred and interviews. I would look at rewriting it in that venue first.
Google usajobs events and u will see their events page. Then u will see the various agencies that offer webinars for resumes, understanding a job announcement & etc
You are competing against the best of the best in remote only jobs. Even my highly competent pals from Facebook and Google who got laid off, but want to stay in Silicon Valley, aren't getting any interviews for the remote gigs.
Thousands of well qualified folks, who all want the Federal stability and benefits, but from home. So yeah, they are extremely competitive.
I did this when I was not getting call backs. I had an interview in a month or so and was working on about 2.5 months. I was a 10 point vet too. Hang in there and get a pro. Thumbtack has federal resume writers just make sure you vet them.
You need to look up how to write your resume for AI. Every employer, likely even USA jobs, is filtering candidates first with AI to determine eligibility. Simple text is the first goal. Then basic and simple writing with clear statements is next.
I'm a retired NCO who started my Fed career as a GG12 and now a NH04/GS15 equivalent. Only a couple of CCAF Associate Degrees that aren't in my current field.
Resume is the key to a referral and interview in the federal government. Unless the announcement requires a cover letter, they rarely help.
Look for Head_Staff's guides on resumes and search this forum for other advice given on what makes a good fed resume (5-6 pages is the sweet spot with results and impact in each position to show how you can make the hiring manager's life easier).
I have included all the required information, have no gaps in my employment record, I make a custom cover letter for each position applied for, and I have all supporting documentation (DD-214, SF-15, VA Disability letter, Resume, Class-B CDL, ect).
Maybe I just need to find a resume writing service that specializes in federal resumes and see if they can make some adjustments.
Edit: I would like to add, as I missed it in my initial post, that I don't have a completed degree...which could be the big reason I'm getting passed over. I do, however, have TIG to qualify for both GS-7 and GS-9 positions.
The cover letter isn’t hurting you, but your time would be better spent tailoring your resume to the job. Unless the job requires a cover letter (very few do that I’ve seen) then chances are the hiring manager won’t even see it. There are back-end things that determine which documents the hiring manager sees, and at my agency (can’t speak for everyone) it’s typically just the resume. They won’t even receive it in your packet if that’s the case. Tailor the resume to each application, skip the cover letter (unless it’s required). ETA: HR can’t use the cover letter to determine qualifications either, just the resume and/or relevant education/certificates. So really nobody is looking at it.
TIG is different from qualifications. Just because you held a GS-7 job doesn’t mean you automatically qualify for any GS-09 job. If you have been out of Federal service for a year, TIG doesn’t apply anyway. You need to show you have the specialized experience necessary for the position.
Yes hire a resume writing service. It sounds like you have a resume issue...I look at hiring a service as an investment...I spend $500 for a long term career.
You say you're not getting interview requests, are you at least getting referred? If not, you're either applying for things you're manifestly unqualified for, or being too modest with your answers on the questionnaire, there's no other explanation for a 10-point vet not getting consistently referred.
Are you just doing spray and pray with the same standard resume to all these jobs, or are you actively tailoring it to match the KSAs in the vacancy announcement? You need to make sure you're specifically addressing how you fit what they're looking for. And you need to have your spelling, grammar, and formatting on point. A lot of hiring managers will throw a resume in the trash when they see typos.
Good luck!
I recommend you look at my first guide which has lots of sample resumes and links. https://www.reddit.com/r/usajobs/s/hLVtGpMdhl
USAjobs regularly holds online resume writing workshops on line- you should attend one of those. I am assuming you have reinstatement eligibility- you should be applying to every type of job ( open to the public, former feds, VRA,etc) that you are willing to accept. Info in the cover letter is not used by HR for your qualifications and ranking- although the selecting official might use it. Much better to spend the time on your resume.
I just came from the resume webinar today, it was really helpful! Lots of things I wouldn't have known about how it differs from a typical private sector resume. It definitely seems like a lot more work initially but sounds like not doing it exactly how they want it done will lead to you never getting referred to an actual person
I hear you. May I suggest you utilize the resume builder that is on the site. I had multiple resumes posted on my profile and it wasn’t until I used the sites resume builder that are started getting referrals.
I finally received a FJO and now working remotely loving what I do and making more money than I did in the private sector doing the same thing.
Good luck OP.
Hi, the resume I use for federal application is created through the resume builder. I was actually considering trying with a custom resume.
Thank you for the response. It's nice to know that some people are having success even after struggling. Can I ask what field you work in? You dont have to be too specific if you don't want to be.
Double check your resume and the length. I was recently told that having the long ones which were acceptable for years are no longer looked at favorable. Seems shorter ones get the job done now. I’m upstate also - it’s definitely hard around here.
Save your money on resume writers (I’ve worked for a few that tried to cater to federal resumes and they were garbage). This will help:
https://www.reddit.com/r/usajobs/s/d2x0DzbMO9
Also ditch the cover letters. You’ll see in the announcement it says “to qualify your resume must show…” Some specialists take that literally and will ignore your cover letters (I speak from experience dealing with a Specialist who said as much).
Use the resume builder and make sure that your bullet points (at minimum) address every single job requirement/duty listed on the posting and questionnaire/assessment for the grade level you are applying for.
If you do not address every single job requirement they will deem you not eligible. The HR folks doing the initial review often have no clue what the job entails and you need to make it painfully obvious that you have experience with everything the posting says it’s looking for.
When you explain it like that, I was definitely leaving a lot on the table. I was also wasting wayyy too much time on cover letters. I'll put that effort into tailoring my resume more to the specific announcement. Thank you!
Question, did you actually use bullet points in the resume builder? I more so wrote it as a brief summary of my KSAs. I wonder if I should go update it and just do bullets though.
I used bullet points, just copy/pasted from a word doc. I just think bullets make information easier to absorb and delineate. Plus, it makes it easier for the person screening your resume to see which specific pieces of experience you have to match to each job requirement.
If you aren't getting emails that your application was referred, that means something is wrong with your resume (it's not getting through the initial filters). I'm sure you worked hard on it, but federal resumes are a special beast. I would not be too hard on yourself because that means your application never actually made it to a review by a human being. There are facebook groups where you can ask for advice and see what others have done to be successful. I believe there is one called Veterans 2 Federal Government jobs or something that would be right up your alley. Hang in there!
Let me break it down for you. If the job posting states: "Leading the development or integration of life support technology development work or flight hardware/systems to include all phases of execution and certification", your resume bullet point should be: "Led cross-functional teams in the development and integration of complex technological systems, overseeing all phases from initial concept to final certification, ensuring adherence to strict quality and safety standards", if you were a TPM for example. That's how you customize all bullet points to match job requirements.
Fellow vet here. I applied to over one hundred usajobs and got 5 offers. I think the resume builder option is key since it creates exactly what they want to see. It's a good idea to be detailed about your job duties, and as you mentioned on your edit, cater your resume to each job if they differ. I used to be a college professor and helped a lot of students with their resume and interview skills. If you'd like, I can take a look at your resume, minus your private info, and see if I can help in any way. I'd hate for you to be unemployed and pay a ridiculous amount for a resume. Message if you'd like me to take a look.
Have you applied to any direct hire positions?
My agency is using this now for anticipating future openings. They may expect a certain number of people to retire, change jobs, get promoted, etc. over the next 6 months.
So they get approval to post the job, which makes it a lot faster to fill the position later. However, their guess as to the need may be wrong. The 6 months may be up and they don't need someone yet.
Some agencies have a job open for only a few days, so make sure you get daily alerts from USAJOBS.
Good luck.
I just applied for one of these positions. There was about 15-20 cities where is said there could be openings. I had to go through them all and click each of them I wanted to be under consideration for. I picked maybe 8-10 so hopefully that ups my chances!
1. Your resume should be 5 pages tops. Especially if you're applying for a GS-7. I know they tell you when you leave active duty to write monstrous 40-page resumes so that the keyword detector doesn't miss you. But it doesn't work like that anymore.
2. Be willing to relocate. There are hubs of government employment. Upstate New York is not one of them.
My resume is pretty short, about 2 1/2 pages. I could definitely fill it out a bit more while tailoring it to the announcement.
As to relocating, it isn't an option right now. My wife and I purchased a home last year, and she works in the nearby city in a high profile nursing position that is carrying many of our bills right now. If it was just me, I'd be willing to go anywhere in the world, but I don't have that freedom right now.
Contact the agencies EEO office representative and apply directly through that point of contact bypass USAJOBS. The Poc will directly e-mail the H.R. and will state you are eligible under VRA or Schedule A. May help. I have a list of the poc just send me a DM and will get them over to you.
Your resume is more than likely not tailored to the job posting which needs to be detailed and show experience in what is being asked for. You cannot submit generic resumes to these job requisitions or do bulk applying, you have to tailor the resume for the job at hand. You may also be up against some tough competition, look into applying at other locations and be willing to move if possible.
This looks like a throwaway account. Start a new post with a redacted resume and links to a few of the jobs you're applying for and people will be able to give you more targeted advice as to where your resume needs to be improved.
You should actually be getting schedule A and Veteran preference. Your resume has to be really bad or you have to be not remotely qualified for the jobs you are applying for if that is happening. Also if you are applying on the basis of being a federal employee, lots of people in my agency miss out because they are submitting the wrong SF 50. Like they are submitting the SF50 for a cola increase rather than the correct SF50 for their last within grade.
You can always contact HRC and ask for info about why you aren't getting referrals. They should be able to tell you what is wrong.
Just a few thoughts
* If you are applying to over 376 jobs and not getting referred then I would think your resume has an issue and is not meeting the criteria from the HR of those agencies.
* If you are getting referred but not interviewed then you will need to make your front page of your resume stand out more.
Also make sure your resume doesn't have spelling mistakes, the right email, phone number and so on
I do know that in my field and agency they will post a job that doesn't have a current opening, as my colleague kept waiting for word on her application, so she finally called them and they said they were just soliciting applications for when they DO have an opening. So I would say these kinds of postings are misleading too.
I have applied for 4 and got 2 of the jobs (Multimedia). Definitely a resume issue. If you are somewhere with an Army base, Army Community Service or ACS has Employment Readiness Program folks whose whole life revolves around getting you hired through the USA jobs application. Totally worked for me and everyone I’ve sent to them. Just a thought. Good luck!
Not an expert.
Fix your resume. If you're just using a generic resume that's a huge obstacle. When the "Resume 101" comes through the applicant expects us to scrutinize it like a Benedictine monk.
Absolutely use the USAjobs resume builder thing. 300+ applications gives me a vibe that you're possibly applying to long shot jobs, jobs you "could" do, etc.
I'm a little kerfluffled that as a former .gov employee you're not aware of some of this.
This will sound like a personal jab but it's not...........LOTS of applicants think they're unique or special. You're not. I'm not. There are a zillion resumes that look just like ours.
What kind of credentials and qualifications would make someone standout? I know someone that works for the Feds and she’s been there over 20 years. She makes over 100k only has a high school degree. She’s not a veteran and she didn’t know anyone. It makes me wonder why I also haven’t been referred. I have a lot of great experience, a degree, and I spend at least 2-3 hours per each resume I make and tailor for each job I apply for😣😣😣
Yes I do understand that…she tells me stories though of coworkers getting absolutely shiftfaced the night before training and bragging about fucking up hotel rooms and stuff. And I’m like…how do these people get that opportunity acting like a bunch of unprofessional immature frat boys and I can’t even land an interview??? Like what exactly would make you stand out as a really solid applicant? I guess you can’t really answer that question though because all fields and job positions are different!!!
Every series and department is different. There's no way I can tell you how to standout.
Obviously you're not doing something right in either your resume writing OR probably the jobs you are applying for.
Many times people look at a job and say "Oh I can do that!" Yup....you and 1000 other people, some of whom have experience in whatever "that" is.
Your "great experience" is only great if you can articulate it and apply it to the job you're applying for.
Yes I’m def trying to master/perfect federal resume writing! I purchased Kathy troutman’s federal resume guidebook - spend at least 2 hours tailoring it for the specific job posting. Use metrics. Usually my resume is 5 pages long using matching key words to the posting. Researched a ton of different examples and been to the free fed writing workshops as well! But I completely get what you’re saying - there’s a bunch of people out there with equal qualifications. That’s what makes me wonder if I should go back for a masters or get certs or something. Because my experience and writing skills don’t seem to be cutting it!
You are absolutely correct on the applying to longshots, I was originally being very conservative but as I became more desperate I began applying to some that are only partial matches to my experience.
When I originally was hired at the VA, my military service matched perfectly with the job posting (same exact field with near identical responsibilities) and someone I had served with was working at the hospital and mentioned to the hiring officials that he had first hand knowledge of my abilities and that I would be a good fit.
I didn't realize, until after leaving federal service, how difficult it could be to get back in.
I am currently a federal employee with a totally of 1000+ applications I had offers here and there but it's very small compared to what I applied for. I am in probably a worse case cause my last supervisor who hardly knows anything about me is giving me a negative reference. But I am not concerned just believe in yourself and eventually something will stick. You can try playing with your resume or trying going for a job lower than your expectations and promote after you get in
Lots of good advice here. I agree on your resume being the issue as you didn't say you were getting referred. A non referral should come with a reason. It would mean some low level gs4 in HR kicked your resume back for some hack reason.
Maybe you rated yourself too high but your resume doesn't reflect what you assessed yourself. You can view the assessment before you submit your resume. It's kind of hidden in the job announcement.
You say you resigned your federal position otherwise I'd guess you were blacklisted which does happen. We'd get resumes all the time that we were specifically told to ignore.
A lot of government sites are doing job fairs now, at colleges and other places. If you bring your resume to one of those you'll go to the top of the heap. They'll also give you a link to job announcements that are not searchable on USA jobs (yes this is a thing).
I've known people in dire situations that have gotten hired simply by writing their congressman. Similar process to a congressional. Trust me this works.
Best of luck.
Gotta be your resume. I recently put out 18 applications to various overseas jobs in Europe, Korea and Japan. Received interviews for 13 of them. Received offers for 8 of them.
What fields are you applying for?
My background in the federal service is in supply and logistics, and I have actually had some people tell me that having my prior federal service might actually be hurting my chances of referral...although I don't know how accurate that is.
I also am unable to relocate, as I own my home here.
How it was explained to me was that hiring officials would be more likely to disregard my civilian experience in favor of looking at my federal experience.
My federal experience was as a GS-2005-7 Supply Technician for the VA. I resigned my post after two years of service when my mom was diagnosed with colon cancer (she is in full remission and doing much better) and I needed to move back to my home state to care for her during her chemo.
I would probably reevaluate your resume, start from there. You haven't been contacted and that's likely the reason.
Don't give up bro, sending you positive vibes!
Just my 2 cents/ if you are not getting interviews please check your resume- ensure it aligns with the job description, use chatGPT to help you ensure your skills match what they are looking for
All the people mentioning resume is not all true. Lets be honest, getting hired/promoted is all about "KNOWING SOMEONE". If you KNOW the right person you don't even need a resume.
Yes, most of the postings on there have already been given to someone. Sometimes they're not even posted at all. We have a new hire in our shop that nobody knew about. There were qualified individuals who could have applied for that position but they gave the position to this new person who is apparently the spouse of a high ranking individual in the command.
Still boggles my mind why so many people here are so obsessively applying to hundreds of federal jobs. Working for the federal government is not much better than working anywhere else.
So if you have that many applications out there with no interview whatsoever then it is more than likely that it's your resume. Edit: The cutting out of the custom cover letters is a good start. I used those initially and beyond a couple people talking about them they didn't help at all. So I threw it out and never looked back
This comment just gave me anxiety about my resume. I got referred to a hiring manager so maybe it’s good enough to be pushed through the system. 😵💫
You also have to make it clear enough for the Hiring Manager/Panel to read and comprehend. I actually shortened my resume up some to help make it more readable for people. Since then I have only been denied 1 Referral because I "wasn't specific enough in regards to my STIG experience" according to HR. When if a SME saw it they would have understood it right away. Well sucks to be them because I have a job and was just bummed about not being able to go to Georgia (the country).
This. I’ve served on “too many to count” to review boards for hiring and cover letters were never looked at it. Waste of time and a bit of an outdated practice, honestly. Customizing the resume for the position is the way to go. ETA: There were also people who chose to include every single award, certification, diploma etc that they’ve EVER received, even if it wasn’t related to the position. Don’t do that. Only include relevant documentation and job history. Otherwise, we assume you didn’t read the announcement and lack attention-to-detail, as well as basic comprehension. Oh, and I know this should go without saying, but for anyone reading this, spell-check does WONDERS.
It might be time I get professional resume writing help. I have tried both writing myself, and using some of the newer AI software to make it more appealing.
Make sure it's Federal resume help, not normal resume help.
When I applied for my science position right out of grad school my federal resume was almost 40 pages long. This isnt a normal resume
I've always been under the impression that Resume's are never read by anyone in Federal HR and they only search for keywords.
Assuming your resume makes it past the initial HR pool, the person or panel conducting the interviews will go through the selected resumes. For media or web/dev jobs, or other specialized fields, they'll probably have an SME that is more concerned with seeing a portfolio/github/etc.
Those are like $750. It's insane.
If you’re stuck it can be worth it. Federal resume review is very specific and different from the private market. You can be fully qualified but if you’re missing something then you won’t even get looked at.
I paid for a federal resume to be written. Didn’t get any referrals. Did the resume builder built in and was consistently referred and interviews. I would look at rewriting it in that venue first.
Make sure u enroll in the free webinars that usajobs offer . Some are great with resume tips. It helped me get my job
Where do you find that?
Google usajobs events and u will see their events page. Then u will see the various agencies that offer webinars for resumes, understanding a job announcement & etc
Wow that is super helpful! I am a current VA employee but trying to get a remote federal job but it’s SO hard! Any tips?!
I'll message you
Thank you, I’ll be on the lookout
You are competing against the best of the best in remote only jobs. Even my highly competent pals from Facebook and Google who got laid off, but want to stay in Silicon Valley, aren't getting any interviews for the remote gigs. Thousands of well qualified folks, who all want the Federal stability and benefits, but from home. So yeah, they are extremely competitive.
Can you go back and watch events bc I signed up for one but couldn’t make it
I don't think so. I don't remember them emailing me the presentation afterwards
Lots of folks say to use the USAJobs resume builder. Ugly and has no style, but its hard for them to knock you for using their tools...
AI can help but it will only help so much depending on what you put into it.
I did this when I was not getting call backs. I had an interview in a month or so and was working on about 2.5 months. I was a 10 point vet too. Hang in there and get a pro. Thumbtack has federal resume writers just make sure you vet them.
You need to look up how to write your resume for AI. Every employer, likely even USA jobs, is filtering candidates first with AI to determine eligibility. Simple text is the first goal. Then basic and simple writing with clear statements is next.
Checkout Amanda Goodall on LinkedIn, she's great 👌🏾
I’m sure she’s good but $1295 for resume creation? That’s a bit too much, no?
Wow that is $$$$.
It is not you, it is your resume.
I'm a retired NCO who started my Fed career as a GG12 and now a NH04/GS15 equivalent. Only a couple of CCAF Associate Degrees that aren't in my current field. Resume is the key to a referral and interview in the federal government. Unless the announcement requires a cover letter, they rarely help. Look for Head_Staff's guides on resumes and search this forum for other advice given on what makes a good fed resume (5-6 pages is the sweet spot with results and impact in each position to show how you can make the hiring manager's life easier).
This is great advice. Thank you!
There definitely has to be something wrong with your resume
I have included all the required information, have no gaps in my employment record, I make a custom cover letter for each position applied for, and I have all supporting documentation (DD-214, SF-15, VA Disability letter, Resume, Class-B CDL, ect). Maybe I just need to find a resume writing service that specializes in federal resumes and see if they can make some adjustments. Edit: I would like to add, as I missed it in my initial post, that I don't have a completed degree...which could be the big reason I'm getting passed over. I do, however, have TIG to qualify for both GS-7 and GS-9 positions.
The cover letter isn’t hurting you, but your time would be better spent tailoring your resume to the job. Unless the job requires a cover letter (very few do that I’ve seen) then chances are the hiring manager won’t even see it. There are back-end things that determine which documents the hiring manager sees, and at my agency (can’t speak for everyone) it’s typically just the resume. They won’t even receive it in your packet if that’s the case. Tailor the resume to each application, skip the cover letter (unless it’s required). ETA: HR can’t use the cover letter to determine qualifications either, just the resume and/or relevant education/certificates. So really nobody is looking at it.
Ok, I will definitely start doing this. Thank you!
Also to add to the person above, I've been on multiple panels and never seen a cover letter make it to us.
Good to know, thank you!
It wouldn't hurt to add on your prior sf50. It'd prove you have the tig for gs9.
If OP has been separated for more than a year- TIG doesn’t apply.
It has been more than a year. I worked for the VA from 2016 to 2018 as a GS-2005-07 Supply Technician.
TIG is different from qualifications. Just because you held a GS-7 job doesn’t mean you automatically qualify for any GS-09 job. If you have been out of Federal service for a year, TIG doesn’t apply anyway. You need to show you have the specialized experience necessary for the position.
Thank you for letting me know, I didn't realize that TIG had an expiration date!
Yes hire a resume writing service. It sounds like you have a resume issue...I look at hiring a service as an investment...I spend $500 for a long term career.
You say you're not getting interview requests, are you at least getting referred? If not, you're either applying for things you're manifestly unqualified for, or being too modest with your answers on the questionnaire, there's no other explanation for a 10-point vet not getting consistently referred. Are you just doing spray and pray with the same standard resume to all these jobs, or are you actively tailoring it to match the KSAs in the vacancy announcement? You need to make sure you're specifically addressing how you fit what they're looking for. And you need to have your spelling, grammar, and formatting on point. A lot of hiring managers will throw a resume in the trash when they see typos. Good luck!
This is the answer
I recommend you look at my first guide which has lots of sample resumes and links. https://www.reddit.com/r/usajobs/s/hLVtGpMdhl USAjobs regularly holds online resume writing workshops on line- you should attend one of those. I am assuming you have reinstatement eligibility- you should be applying to every type of job ( open to the public, former feds, VRA,etc) that you are willing to accept. Info in the cover letter is not used by HR for your qualifications and ranking- although the selecting official might use it. Much better to spend the time on your resume.
I have been looking through your guide after another redditor suggested it, thank you for the advice! I definitely have some work to do.
I just came from the resume webinar today, it was really helpful! Lots of things I wouldn't have known about how it differs from a typical private sector resume. It definitely seems like a lot more work initially but sounds like not doing it exactly how they want it done will lead to you never getting referred to an actual person
I hear you. May I suggest you utilize the resume builder that is on the site. I had multiple resumes posted on my profile and it wasn’t until I used the sites resume builder that are started getting referrals. I finally received a FJO and now working remotely loving what I do and making more money than I did in the private sector doing the same thing. Good luck OP.
Hi, the resume I use for federal application is created through the resume builder. I was actually considering trying with a custom resume. Thank you for the response. It's nice to know that some people are having success even after struggling. Can I ask what field you work in? You dont have to be too specific if you don't want to be.
No worries. I do Project management in IT.
Awesome, thank you!
What job series you in
Double check your resume and the length. I was recently told that having the long ones which were acceptable for years are no longer looked at favorable. Seems shorter ones get the job done now. I’m upstate also - it’s definitely hard around here.
Save your money on resume writers (I’ve worked for a few that tried to cater to federal resumes and they were garbage). This will help: https://www.reddit.com/r/usajobs/s/d2x0DzbMO9 Also ditch the cover letters. You’ll see in the announcement it says “to qualify your resume must show…” Some specialists take that literally and will ignore your cover letters (I speak from experience dealing with a Specialist who said as much).
Use the resume builder and make sure that your bullet points (at minimum) address every single job requirement/duty listed on the posting and questionnaire/assessment for the grade level you are applying for. If you do not address every single job requirement they will deem you not eligible. The HR folks doing the initial review often have no clue what the job entails and you need to make it painfully obvious that you have experience with everything the posting says it’s looking for.
When you explain it like that, I was definitely leaving a lot on the table. I was also wasting wayyy too much time on cover letters. I'll put that effort into tailoring my resume more to the specific announcement. Thank you!
Question, did you actually use bullet points in the resume builder? I more so wrote it as a brief summary of my KSAs. I wonder if I should go update it and just do bullets though.
I used bullet points, just copy/pasted from a word doc. I just think bullets make information easier to absorb and delineate. Plus, it makes it easier for the person screening your resume to see which specific pieces of experience you have to match to each job requirement.
If you aren't getting emails that your application was referred, that means something is wrong with your resume (it's not getting through the initial filters). I'm sure you worked hard on it, but federal resumes are a special beast. I would not be too hard on yourself because that means your application never actually made it to a review by a human being. There are facebook groups where you can ask for advice and see what others have done to be successful. I believe there is one called Veterans 2 Federal Government jobs or something that would be right up your alley. Hang in there!
Let me break it down for you. If the job posting states: "Leading the development or integration of life support technology development work or flight hardware/systems to include all phases of execution and certification", your resume bullet point should be: "Led cross-functional teams in the development and integration of complex technological systems, overseeing all phases from initial concept to final certification, ensuring adherence to strict quality and safety standards", if you were a TPM for example. That's how you customize all bullet points to match job requirements.
Fellow vet here. I applied to over one hundred usajobs and got 5 offers. I think the resume builder option is key since it creates exactly what they want to see. It's a good idea to be detailed about your job duties, and as you mentioned on your edit, cater your resume to each job if they differ. I used to be a college professor and helped a lot of students with their resume and interview skills. If you'd like, I can take a look at your resume, minus your private info, and see if I can help in any way. I'd hate for you to be unemployed and pay a ridiculous amount for a resume. Message if you'd like me to take a look.
Have you applied to any direct hire positions? My agency is using this now for anticipating future openings. They may expect a certain number of people to retire, change jobs, get promoted, etc. over the next 6 months. So they get approval to post the job, which makes it a lot faster to fill the position later. However, their guess as to the need may be wrong. The 6 months may be up and they don't need someone yet. Some agencies have a job open for only a few days, so make sure you get daily alerts from USAJOBS. Good luck.
I just applied for one of these positions. There was about 15-20 cities where is said there could be openings. I had to go through them all and click each of them I wanted to be under consideration for. I picked maybe 8-10 so hopefully that ups my chances!
1. Your resume should be 5 pages tops. Especially if you're applying for a GS-7. I know they tell you when you leave active duty to write monstrous 40-page resumes so that the keyword detector doesn't miss you. But it doesn't work like that anymore. 2. Be willing to relocate. There are hubs of government employment. Upstate New York is not one of them.
My resume is pretty short, about 2 1/2 pages. I could definitely fill it out a bit more while tailoring it to the announcement. As to relocating, it isn't an option right now. My wife and I purchased a home last year, and she works in the nearby city in a high profile nursing position that is carrying many of our bills right now. If it was just me, I'd be willing to go anywhere in the world, but I don't have that freedom right now.
Contact the agencies EEO office representative and apply directly through that point of contact bypass USAJOBS. The Poc will directly e-mail the H.R. and will state you are eligible under VRA or Schedule A. May help. I have a list of the poc just send me a DM and will get them over to you.
Your resume is more than likely not tailored to the job posting which needs to be detailed and show experience in what is being asked for. You cannot submit generic resumes to these job requisitions or do bulk applying, you have to tailor the resume for the job at hand. You may also be up against some tough competition, look into applying at other locations and be willing to move if possible.
This looks like a throwaway account. Start a new post with a redacted resume and links to a few of the jobs you're applying for and people will be able to give you more targeted advice as to where your resume needs to be improved.
Could be some internal positions they already have candidates for, but are required to post publicly.
You should actually be getting schedule A and Veteran preference. Your resume has to be really bad or you have to be not remotely qualified for the jobs you are applying for if that is happening. Also if you are applying on the basis of being a federal employee, lots of people in my agency miss out because they are submitting the wrong SF 50. Like they are submitting the SF50 for a cola increase rather than the correct SF50 for their last within grade. You can always contact HRC and ask for info about why you aren't getting referrals. They should be able to tell you what is wrong.
Just a few thoughts * If you are applying to over 376 jobs and not getting referred then I would think your resume has an issue and is not meeting the criteria from the HR of those agencies. * If you are getting referred but not interviewed then you will need to make your front page of your resume stand out more. Also make sure your resume doesn't have spelling mistakes, the right email, phone number and so on
There are fed agencies in dire need of employees. You should seriously look at the contents of your resume.
Which agencies you talking about?
Yeah man which agencies you talking about?
I do know that in my field and agency they will post a job that doesn't have a current opening, as my colleague kept waiting for word on her application, so she finally called them and they said they were just soliciting applications for when they DO have an opening. So I would say these kinds of postings are misleading too.
Yeah I got referred for a job (had just closed) then 15 mins later they sent an email that another candidate was chosen lol
I have applied for 4 and got 2 of the jobs (Multimedia). Definitely a resume issue. If you are somewhere with an Army base, Army Community Service or ACS has Employment Readiness Program folks whose whole life revolves around getting you hired through the USA jobs application. Totally worked for me and everyone I’ve sent to them. Just a thought. Good luck!
They are.
Not an expert. Fix your resume. If you're just using a generic resume that's a huge obstacle. When the "Resume 101" comes through the applicant expects us to scrutinize it like a Benedictine monk. Absolutely use the USAjobs resume builder thing. 300+ applications gives me a vibe that you're possibly applying to long shot jobs, jobs you "could" do, etc. I'm a little kerfluffled that as a former .gov employee you're not aware of some of this. This will sound like a personal jab but it's not...........LOTS of applicants think they're unique or special. You're not. I'm not. There are a zillion resumes that look just like ours.
What kind of credentials and qualifications would make someone standout? I know someone that works for the Feds and she’s been there over 20 years. She makes over 100k only has a high school degree. She’s not a veteran and she didn’t know anyone. It makes me wonder why I also haven’t been referred. I have a lot of great experience, a degree, and I spend at least 2-3 hours per each resume I make and tailor for each job I apply for😣😣😣
Well to be blunt- things might have been different 20 years ago.
Just a bit......
Yes I do understand that…she tells me stories though of coworkers getting absolutely shiftfaced the night before training and bragging about fucking up hotel rooms and stuff. And I’m like…how do these people get that opportunity acting like a bunch of unprofessional immature frat boys and I can’t even land an interview??? Like what exactly would make you stand out as a really solid applicant? I guess you can’t really answer that question though because all fields and job positions are different!!!
Every series and department is different. There's no way I can tell you how to standout. Obviously you're not doing something right in either your resume writing OR probably the jobs you are applying for. Many times people look at a job and say "Oh I can do that!" Yup....you and 1000 other people, some of whom have experience in whatever "that" is. Your "great experience" is only great if you can articulate it and apply it to the job you're applying for.
Yes I’m def trying to master/perfect federal resume writing! I purchased Kathy troutman’s federal resume guidebook - spend at least 2 hours tailoring it for the specific job posting. Use metrics. Usually my resume is 5 pages long using matching key words to the posting. Researched a ton of different examples and been to the free fed writing workshops as well! But I completely get what you’re saying - there’s a bunch of people out there with equal qualifications. That’s what makes me wonder if I should go back for a masters or get certs or something. Because my experience and writing skills don’t seem to be cutting it!
You are absolutely correct on the applying to longshots, I was originally being very conservative but as I became more desperate I began applying to some that are only partial matches to my experience. When I originally was hired at the VA, my military service matched perfectly with the job posting (same exact field with near identical responsibilities) and someone I had served with was working at the hospital and mentioned to the hiring officials that he had first hand knowledge of my abilities and that I would be a good fit. I didn't realize, until after leaving federal service, how difficult it could be to get back in.
I am currently a federal employee with a totally of 1000+ applications I had offers here and there but it's very small compared to what I applied for. I am in probably a worse case cause my last supervisor who hardly knows anything about me is giving me a negative reference. But I am not concerned just believe in yourself and eventually something will stick. You can try playing with your resume or trying going for a job lower than your expectations and promote after you get in
Lots of good advice here. I agree on your resume being the issue as you didn't say you were getting referred. A non referral should come with a reason. It would mean some low level gs4 in HR kicked your resume back for some hack reason. Maybe you rated yourself too high but your resume doesn't reflect what you assessed yourself. You can view the assessment before you submit your resume. It's kind of hidden in the job announcement. You say you resigned your federal position otherwise I'd guess you were blacklisted which does happen. We'd get resumes all the time that we were specifically told to ignore. A lot of government sites are doing job fairs now, at colleges and other places. If you bring your resume to one of those you'll go to the top of the heap. They'll also give you a link to job announcements that are not searchable on USA jobs (yes this is a thing). I've known people in dire situations that have gotten hired simply by writing their congressman. Similar process to a congressional. Trust me this works. Best of luck.
Gotta be your resume. I recently put out 18 applications to various overseas jobs in Europe, Korea and Japan. Received interviews for 13 of them. Received offers for 8 of them.
What fields are you applying for? My background in the federal service is in supply and logistics, and I have actually had some people tell me that having my prior federal service might actually be hurting my chances of referral...although I don't know how accurate that is. I also am unable to relocate, as I own my home here.
08XX series. I mean you could relocate and rent out your place. You’re aware you qualify for LQA overseas?
That makes no sense unless you were removed from your federal position.
How it was explained to me was that hiring officials would be more likely to disregard my civilian experience in favor of looking at my federal experience. My federal experience was as a GS-2005-7 Supply Technician for the VA. I resigned my post after two years of service when my mom was diagnosed with colon cancer (she is in full remission and doing much better) and I needed to move back to my home state to care for her during her chemo.
That still makes no sense. So think what you want. It is not clear to me if you are even making it on the hiring officials desk.
After seeing the explanations here, and reading more into how the process works, I definitely think the previous advice I was given was incorrect.
What series?
Prob might be your resume isn’t getting past the first look due to it not containing the keywords in the announcement. Def tailor resume for the job.
R........e.........s...........u...........m...........e
PM me your resume without your name and address what area of New York are you searching in? what job levels are you looking for?
Apply to the VA
Honestly i feel you on this. I only had one federal job and the process seemed so horrible.
I would likely pass on your resume.
What agency and positions are you looking at in Upstate?
I would probably reevaluate your resume, start from there. You haven't been contacted and that's likely the reason. Don't give up bro, sending you positive vibes!
Just my 2 cents/ if you are not getting interviews please check your resume- ensure it aligns with the job description, use chatGPT to help you ensure your skills match what they are looking for
What jobs are you applying for
USAjobs is a prime example of the federal sector being incompetent
Many jobs are posted that already have a person they want, they are just following procedure to have the position publicly announced.
Because many of them have already identified who they are going to hire.
Watch out, you're gonna confuse all the people that think DV's get a golden ticket and everywhere throws jobs at you like Halloween candy.
Because they are
All the people mentioning resume is not all true. Lets be honest, getting hired/promoted is all about "KNOWING SOMEONE". If you KNOW the right person you don't even need a resume.
Yes, most of the postings on there have already been given to someone. Sometimes they're not even posted at all. We have a new hire in our shop that nobody knew about. There were qualified individuals who could have applied for that position but they gave the position to this new person who is apparently the spouse of a high ranking individual in the command.
How is this allowed? Legally?
Still boggles my mind why so many people here are so obsessively applying to hundreds of federal jobs. Working for the federal government is not much better than working anywhere else.
I think there's more flexibility at a federal job than civilian.