Federal Resume Tips

Context

Federal resumes are different than private sector resumes in that they require very descriptive and detailed information. When preparing your resume, it is very important that you include all experience related to the position for which you are applying. This way, employers are able to determine if your experience meets the requirements of the position. Omitting this information in the interest of shortening your resume may exclude you from being considered "best qualified". While details are good, resist adding information that is indirectly related to the position because it looks like fluff or filler information. Use your best judgment to decide what the employer needs to know for this specific position. Please note: It is acceptable for a Federal resume to go beyond one page.

Word Choice Matters

Just one word my have tremendous impact and deliver a huge message. Keywords are essential in enhancing an employer's understanding of your skills. When constructing your explanation of previous experience, use action verbs to illustrate how you performed a particular function and provide the result.

Pay attention to keywords (often nouns) used in the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities listed in the job announcement. For example, using words such as "analysis" may prompt an employer to assume you have experience in collecting data, evaluating effectiveness, and researching and developing new processes. Also, using action verbs like "developed" and "implemented" speaks to your experience in working independently on assignments and to the level of responsibility you were afforded.

Quantifying Results and Outcomes

Enhance your resume by quantifying results. Quantifying results can increase appeal with employers because it provides a clear description of the level of experience and responsibility which may relate directly to the experience required to succeed in the position. Did you save your organization money? What are the savings and what was your role? Were you able to streamline a workflow issue? What were the results? Results demonstrate the impact your experience will have on the organization. If you made an improvement in the work production or implemented more cost-effective strategies at your former organization, record it in your resume.

Tips and sample resume are courtesy of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.