3 Steps To Make Your Federal Job Application Stand Out

Applying for a federal job comes with its own set of challenges but the benefits may be worth it to go through the often competitive process. There are often very high (and potentially difficult) standards involved when it comes to the application process from start to end. And I will not mince words the process can often be a bit long (most state 3-6 months from start to end)

However, there are steps you can take to make your application stand out from and increase the odds of landing an interview.

Let's discuss three essential steps you need to take to help make you an unique candidate and have your federal job application stand out in the process.

Steps To Make Your Federal Job Application Stand Out

1. Update Your Resume From Corporate To Federal:

I've got an entire post detailing the steps you need to take to do this, but let's go over the TLDR; version here ⬇️

Federal job announcements / roles are detailed and specific. They ALL outline the qualifications, experience, and skills required for the position, giving you a strong opportunity to tailor your resumé properly to match the requirements. Here’s how:

• Read the announcement carefully: Start by thoroughly reading the job announcement on USAJOBS.gov. Pay attention to the duties, qualifications, and required knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs). Note any keywords and phrases that appear frequently.
• Highlight Relevant Experience: You know how I feel about relevancy and if you don't let me sternly remind you: NO ONE WANTS TO WASTE THEIR TIME! Ensure that your resume highlights your most relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments. Use the same language and keywords from the job announcement to describe your work experience and qualifications.
• Detail Your Accomplishments: Federal resumes require more detail than traditional resumes. So do not be alarmed if your resume starts approaching the 5-7 page mark. For each position, provide comprehensive descriptions of your duties and achievements, including metrics to quantify your impact. For example: instead of saying “Managed a team,” lean more towards “Managed a team of 10 employees, leading to a 20% increase in productivity over six months.”

Example Transition

Before (What your traditional resume may look like):

• Managed a team of marketing professionals.
• Developed and implemented marketing strategies.
• Increased social media engagement.

After (What your federal resume may look like):

• Managed a team of 10 marketing professionals, resulting in a 20% increase in team productivity within six months.
• Developed and implemented comprehensive marketing strategies that increased brand awareness by 30%.
• Successfully increased social media engagement by 50% through targeted content and advertising campaigns.

💡HOT TIP: Word on the street is that you give yourself a much better shot if you skip the PDF upload step. This hasn't been stated by USAjobs.gov but a few people have successfully applied and received interviews / offers shared it is better to use the resume builder that is provided on the USAjobs site, and use the hiring path.

💡HOT TIP 2: If you've been applying incessantly and haven't heard back, be SURE that you are applying for roles that are opened to the public. If not, they will not call you / consider you for the role at all. The USAjobs site allows you to filter out roles that are not open to the public so you don't have to waste your time sending in applications that won't get you a call back.

💡HOT TIP 3: Make sure your resume is aligned specifically for the role you're applying to. A federal resume is not a corporate resume. Be sure to thoroughly layout your transferable skills and include a functional summary. The written section of the application needs to have the same sense of detail that your resume has as well! Don't skimp on the information! DETAIL DETAIL DETAIL is key!

More help: How to write a federal resumé

2. Address the KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

Federal job applications will typically require you to address specific KSAs. You can do this on your resume or in separate narrative statements, depending on the application process.

• Understand the KSAs: Identify the KSAs listed in the job announcement. These are the critical qualifications the hiring manager is looking for.

• Provide Specific Examples: For each KSA, provide specific examples from your work history that demonstrate your competency. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This method helps you present a clear and concise example of how you applied your skills and what the outcome was.

Example KSA:

KSA: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Situation: As a project manager at XYZ Company, I was responsible for overseeing multiple projects with overlapping deadlines.

Task: My task was to ensure that all projects were completed on time and within budget.

Action: I implemented a project management system to track progress and resource allocation. I also held weekly meetings with team leaders to address any issues promptly.

Result: As a result, all projects were completed on time, with an average of 10% under budget, and client satisfaction increased by 15%.

3. Include All Required Documentation

The quickest way to get ghosted by a federal job is to leave out any of the additional required application documentation. Be sure that you provide all necessary documents to prevent your application from being rejected (this also is a way to demonstrate your attention to detail. So it is vital you don't miss the required documentation!)

• Review the Requirements: Carefully review the job announcement to determine what additional documentation is required. This may include transcripts, certifications, SF-50 forms (for current or former federal employees), or veteran preference documentation.
• Organize Your Documents: Gather and organize all required documents before starting your application. Ensure each document is up-to-date and accurately reflects your qualifications.
• Upload and Label Correctly: When submitting your application through USAJOBS.gov, upload all required documents and ensure they are correctly labeled (save them with your name and what the document is ie: MillennialinDebt_transcript. Double-check that each document is clear and legible.

Example Documentation Checklist:

• Cover Letter: Addressing your interest in the position and how your qualifications meet the job requirements.
• Transcripts: Official or unofficial copies, as specified in the job announcement.
• Certifications: Copies of any relevant certifications or licenses.
• SF-50: For current or former federal employees, providing proof of your employment status and grade level.
• Veteran Preference Documentation: If applicable, include your DD-214, SF-15, and any other required documents to verify your veteran status.
• Resume: Tailored to the job announcement with detailed descriptions of relevant experience.

With most job applications and applications, it is going to take some practice + patience. Consistently check back to see if the role is still available / open (most will have a deadline to apply). It is also important to note that after a specific amount of time (90 days to 6 months) your application is deleted/ erased even if the role is still up / open and accepting applications. There is no shame in applying again with an updated strategy / application.

Good luck to everyone applying! I'm rooting for you hard !

Until next time,

M.