how to create a resume for usajobs

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How to build a resume

To build a resume in usajobs:.

Sign into USAJOBS.
Go to your Documents .
Make sure you're in the Resumes section and select the Upload or build resume button.
Click Build resume .
Name your new resume and click Next .
Click Add Work Experience , enter the required information and click Save Work Experience . To add additional work experience repeat this step or click Next to continue with your education information.
Click Add Education , enter the required information and click Save Education . Repeat this step to add additional education or click Next to continue with your references. You may also click Finish if you don't want to add more information.
Click Add Reference , enter the required information and click Save Reference . Repeat this step to add an additional reference or click Next to continue to the next step.
You can enter additional information on your resume such as job related training, language skills, organizations/affiliations, professional publications, and other information. Click the corresponding button under each section to add your information, enter your information and click Add or Save for each section once completed.
Click Finish to save your resume. Your new resume will appear in your Documents list.
Click View on the resume icon to preview your resume. To edit your resume click Edit on the resume icon and it will bring you to the first page of your resume in the resume builder tool.

Save your work periodically

For security reasons, your session will time out after a period of inactivity. We recommend you Save periodically so that you do not lose any work.

Updating your resume

In order to capture changes that you have made to your profile you will need to build a new resume. USAJOBS does not automatically update existing resumes. This allows you to easily keep a set of resumes to apply to different jobs and only apply changes when you desire.

Tips for formatting resumes in USAJOBS resume builder

You can copy and paste text from Word documents into the resume builder. However, some formatting in these documents may not work in the USAJOBS resume builder. To fix formatting errors inside your resume, you must first save the original file in a .txt format.

To copy and paste from Word:

Open up your Word document or other word processing tool.
Select the File tab at the top.
Go to the Save As option.
Choose to save it as a Plain Text (.txt) file.
Open the new file and ensure the text appears in an acceptable format.
Copy and paste your resume text into the resume builder.

To edit your USAJOBS resume-builder resume:

Click on your username at the top of the page and select Documents from the menu.
Find the resume you want to edit and click "Edit" (located below the resume).
This will bring you to the first page of your resume.

Tips for submitting resumes to agencies

Some agencies accept uploaded resumes and resumes created using the USAJOBS resume builder, while some may only accept one or the other. Even though you may have both types of resumes in the Document section of your profile, the agency determines which ones to accept when you are applying online. The Apply button displayed on the job announcement page activates the process for a job seeker to complete an application.

USAJOBS automatically provides a list of available resumes and other documents to attach to your application, and will only display resumes and documents the hiring agency is willing to accept. For example, if the hiring agency only accepts resumes created using the USAJOBS resume builder, then your uploaded resumes will not be available to add to your application. Please pay special attention to the How to Apply section of the job announcement to find out which resume format and documents are accepted and how to submit them to the hiring agency.

Still need help?

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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. Following are a few ways to make this easier.

Consider what positions you are interested in and review what qualifications or experience they require by reviewing different types of jobs and job opportunity announcements on USAJOBS . Gather information and begin to build out a description of your knowledge, skills and experience to add to your resume. How you present your skills and experience in your resume will help determine whether or not you are invited to interview for a job.

Attend job assistance training prior to departing the service. Contact your Transition Assistance Center as soon as possible and sign up for a Transition Assistance Program Workshop. If you are not near a Military Transition Center, you may use the services at Transition Assistance Offices operated by the other military services. Use your transition counselors. They have the tools and knowledge you need. If available, get their help in creating your first resume or filling out a draft application. Ask them to critique your work and then make the changes they suggest.

One size never fits all. As you apply for jobs, tailor your resume to the position’s requirements. Study the job opportunity announcement and emphasize the parts of your work history that match the qualification requirements listed there. It is important to portray your knowledge and skills as a match to the requirements of the position and demonstrate the ability to do the job. This is easy to do when you include your results, achievements and accomplishments. Minimize the use of technical jargon or specialized terminology (e.g., military abbreviations) in your resume.

Resumes are generally presented in one of three formats: chronological, functional or a combination of both. Which format you choose will depend, in part, on the type of work you have performed and whether or not you are going to continue in the same field.

Chronological resumes list work experience according to date, with the current job appearing first. Chronological resumes work well if your career has been progressive and you plan to continue in the same line of work.
Functional resumes are organized by the skills you have used on the job. Functional resumes work well if you are contemplating a new career, do not have a lengthy work history, or have held a number of different positions because they sell your abilities based on the skills you have acquired throughout your career. Be sure to include relevant volunteer experience.
Combination resumes both describe your work experience and highlight your skills. Combination resumes usually provide the most comprehensive overview of your career.

Unlike resumes used in the private sector, federal resumes require additional information. For each past job, give the standard information found in most resumes. Your federal resume should include the following:

Job announcement number, job title , and job grade of the job for which you are applying
Your full name, mailing address , day and evening phone numbers and home e-mail .
Country of citizenship , if different from U.S.
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).
Peace Corps / AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteers – If you are a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, you will need to provide your Description of Service (DOS) to claim non-competitive eligibility for federal jobs. AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers
Persons with Disabilities (Schedule A) – To verify eligibility for employment under the Schedule A hiring authority, you must provide proof of disability issued by a licensed medical professions, a licensed vocational rehabilitation specialist, or any federal agency, state agency, or an agency of the District of Columbia, or U.S. territory that issues or provides disability benefits. Contact the Department’s Selective Placement Coordinators for help with hiring and accommodation requests.
Veterans – Keep in mind that your military training may count towards qualifications. Use your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) document (DD Form 2586) to document your training and education.
Begin with your current position and list all other positions held in chronological order.
State the job title, starting and ending dates (including month and year), prior employer's name and address (or write "self-employed," if that applies), and major duties and accomplishments. Include any positions temporarily held.
Show the average number of hours worked per week or simply state "full-time"; salary or wage earned; supervisor's name, address and telephone number; and whether you’re most recent supervisor may be contacted.
Veterans - Avoid using military job titles or occupational codes. Instead, look at what you did using your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) as a starting point. Employers prefer proven performers, so make sure you know what employers are looking for in comparison to your military work experience.
Indicate if your current supervisor can be contacted
Job-related training courses (title and year).
self-management skills refer to the way you manage yourself on the job (e.g., dependable, resourceful, etc.);
functional skills are the skills you use on the job or have used in previous jobs (e.g., operate equipment, supervise, analyze, etc.); and
technical skills relate to specific skills required to perform a described task (e.g., computer programming, accounting, sales, etc.)
Current job-related certificates and licenses - Make sure you understand the licensure and certification requirements for your job objective.
Job-related honors, awards, special accomplishments , leadership activities, memberships, or publications.

Once you have spell checked your resume, take a good look at its overall appearance. Is it appealing and easy to read? Is there enough white space? Are the margins appropriate? Have the headings, font and formatting style been used effectively? Keep in mind that your resume is an employer's first impression of you. Make sure it makes the best one possible.

Review the job announcements carefully for key words
Use verbs and adjectives (e.g., managed, implemented, created) that match key words identified in the job announcement.
Eliminate military lingo (use words such as personnel instead of squad or platoon).
Include your accomplishments; do not be shy, be truthful.
Focus on the mission of the agency and translate your experiences.
Your positive attitude and genuine enthusiasm goes a long way.

Federal Resumes Guide for USAJobs

Introduction

USAJOBS.gov

Writing Strategies

Federal Resume Sample

Introduction to federal resumes.

Searching for a federal job can be a daunting task. The stringent guidelines for both the application process and the formatting of required materials, including the federal resume, can seem overwhelming to first-time applicants and seasoned professionals.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the key steps in the application process, including successfully navigating USAJOBS (the official job-search website of the US government), targeting vacancy postings, and crafting an effective resume that highlights your career accomplishments while aligning with federal resume-writing best practices.

How a Federal Resume Differs From a Private Industry Resume

The main differences between a federal resume and a private sector resume are the length of the resume and the detail involved. While a typical resume should be no more than two pages in length, a federal resume can extend to five pages or more. In addition, federal resumes require more details in regards to references, availability, and expanded job descriptions and accomplishments. Also, readers of your federal resume will be expecting certain stylistic attributes and exact phrasing that mirrors the language of vacancy postings on USAJOBS.gov.

Grade Levels: General Schedule (GS) & Senior Executive Service (SES)

In the federal job arena, there is a highly specific and expected career progression and salary roadmap referred to as the GS pay scale, ranging from GS-1 through GS-15. Applicants are required to meet clearly defined expectations for jobs at each level, and each progressive step includes a raise in salary:

GS-1 through GS-7: Entry-level positions – If you have recently entered the workforce and have at least a high school diploma and a few months of work experience, you qualify for positions up to GS-2. If you have more than a few months of general experience, you qualify for GS-3 and GS-4 levels. Following this (GS-5 and above), positions require at least 1 year of specialized experience to be considered. Graduates within a specific career field are eligible for GS-5 jobs and qualify for GS-7 if they attained certain grades, test scores, or other criteria while in college.
GS-8 through GS-12: Mid-level positions – Jobs within this range typically require master’s degrees or a doctorate for GS-11 grades and beyond. In lieu of a degree, acceptable candidates can qualify with at least 12 months of experience at an equivalent grade level.
GS-13 through GS-15: Senior managers, high-level technical specialists, physicians – Positions in this range are typically reserved for top professionals holding advanced degrees. Candidates must be able to demonstrate relevant job experience. At levels 14 and 15, the candidate is eligible to apply for a Senior Executive Service (SES) job.

SES & Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs)

SES roles represent executive-level positions across management and policy. These roles are classified above GS-15 in most Executive Branch agencies of the US government. These also represent the highest-level positions below presidential appointments. To qualify for an SES position, one must demonstrate alignment with five ECQs and their key components:

As you’ll see, the questionnaire asks about certain abilities that the ideal candidate would possess that might not be spelled out in the job posting itself, so it’s important to identify these and leverage them in your federal resume.

In addition to specific phrasing of expected abilities and accomplishments, you will want to identify the KSAs that are specific to the position. USAJOBS makes this process easy by highlighting them at the bottom of a vacancy posting with the “How You Will Be Evaluated” section. Remember, these are expected to be written verbatim in a federal resume.

After you have made a list of both the KSAs and phrases you need to incorporate into your federal resume, it’s time to start writing.

Strategies for Writing a Successful Federal Resume

Define Your Core Skills

With your list of KSAs and duty phrases in hand, ask yourself what five high-level responsibilities describe your current role in order to define the key knowledge, skills, and abilities you apply every day and how they align with the information you obtained from the vacancy posting. Once you have compiled this list, brainstorm about specific examples of achievements in these areas and how they support the position you’re applying to as well as its KSAs.

If you are making a transition from military service into civilian service, you will need to translate your experience and accomplishments to align with the language of the vacancy postings. Using the posting language and KSAs as a guide, consider how your accomplishments within the military reflect the skills and abilities required for the position. A good starting point for this information is your performance evaluations.

Formatting & Layout

As with a private industry resume, a federal resume is most impactful when it is organized and highly readable. A main point of difference between the two is that while a private resume can take many forms including functional or creative, the federal resume must be in the traditional reverse-chronological order covering the last 10 years. Private sector resumes use succinct career highlights and bullets with few details, whereas federal resumes use full phrases, sentences, and paragraphs to cover the informative descriptions and extensive details that support the job qualifications. While a private sector resume is typically limited to 2 pages, a federal resume can average anywhere from 3 pages to 7 or more.

Stylistic Rules

As with private-sector resumes, some general stylistic rules apply to optimize the document:

Most jobs will have four to six paragraphs, and each should represent a KSA, if possible. “Communication skills” is the most common KSA.
Each resume should contain one paragraph on “Interpreting Regulations.”
Repetition aligning with job posting-specific phrasing is encouraged. If you did the work and have the skills, it’s acceptable to repeat these attributes throughout the resume. Avoid exact repetition, and paraphrase when possible.
Minimize using personal pronouns, and keep articles such as “an” or “the” to a minimum to optimize space.
KEYWORDS/CORE COMPETENCIES should be used to describe each duties paragraph and are in all caps. Nouns are preferred, but verbs can also be used if that is the language reflecting the vacancy posting.
Accomplishments should follow the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for a general federal resume or the CCAR (Challenge, Context, Action, Result) format for ECQs within the SES resume.
Some job announcements will require the full date (mm/dd/yyyy) and salary, supervisor name and phone, and whether or not to contact. It’s important to note that federal resumes will not be considered if required information is missing.
Certificates usually go under Job-Related Training, but longer programs such as the Project Management Institute’s (PMI) Project Management Professional (PMP) certification will go under education.
Military, Soldier, Veteran, Marine, etc. are capitalized throughout the resume, which is reflective of Military AP Style.
All acronyms, except those that are obvious, should be spelled out. This is especially important to elucidate department or industry-specific jargon. Remember that it’s often HR that is reviewing your resume first, not a specialist within your field.
Font size and spacing should remain the same, except for paragraph spacing.
Jobs more than 10 years in the past will still be listed but will be presented in the Additional Information section, with the number of years listed instead of dates.

Contact Information & Career Summary

The federal resume presentation begins with your contact information. These details should match your profile on USAJOBS. Following this is the Career Summary which should be crafted to align your experience with the vacancy posting of interest. Also list your citizenship status, current employment status (federal or private sector), the highest GS level you have obtained (if applicable), and any security clearances you have.

If you don’t have the security clearance required by the position, make it known that you are aware of the requirement and are willing to obtain the necessary clearance. You can also use this space to describe any high-level awards you have received or technical skills that are relevant to your desired position. Again, while the private sector resume is intentionally two pages on average, federal resumes are more expansive and inclusive of details.

Following your summary and contact information is a section of bulleted areas of expertise. Again, focus on the keywords that align your strengths and abilities with the requirements outlined in the vacancy posting.

Work Experience

Next, outline your work experience for each agency in chronological order. The federal resume requires exact dates (month/year) of employment as well as hours worked per week and exact details of each position (Series, GS level, etc.). As stated previously, the federal resume is a chronological document that describes your work history in terms of an outline. This means that you should outline your progression of roles within that agency and follow the timeline with a skills-based resume-writing format. You will do this for each applicable agency.

Next, use the list of duties and KSAs that you compiled from the vacancy posting as a template to describe how your career duties and accomplishments demonstrate your success in those areas. In this applicant’s case, the following phrases (among others) were listed on the vacancy posting:

Logistics and transportation
Provide oversight and guidance
Leverage knowledge of organizational development and culture
Team leader
Organize and direct teams
Interpret policy and regulations
Effective written and oral communication
Build professional working relationships

Looking at the example below, you can see how the resume entry has been customized to reflect these lists:

As with a private sector resume, you’ll notice the use of bulleted accomplishments to describe specific accomplishments related to the listed and described skills. These should describe both what you accomplished as well as how you did it.

You will go through this process with every agency within your career history, ensuring that you continue to frame your accomplishments and work history around the list of phrases and KSAs that you obtained from your review of the vacancy posting.

It is also customary to list your supervisors as references under each position in your job history. You should also specify whether the HR specialist reviewing your resume can contact them.

Additional Information

After outlining and describing your career history in a way that aligns with your desired position, you will list additional information that is important and relevant, including education, certifications, job-related training, professional affiliations, and publications. This is also where older employment information is listed without specific dates.

Some higher-level applicants (in particular in the GS-14 and GS-15 range) have exhaustive lists of publications that would significantly lengthen the document. In this case, it is perfectly acceptable to present a selected list of representative publications.

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Writing a Federal Resume

Is your resume one page? That’s fine for a private sector job. Your government resume, however, will need to have more detail, and it’s likely to grow to about two to five pages.

Key Components of a Federal Resume

The best way to create a federal resume is to use the resume builder on the federal government’s jobs website, USAJOBS. The resume builder will guide you through the whole process. And you don’t have to stick with one. You can create a resume tailored to fit different positions you apply for. You can also create a searchable, master resume, so HR specialists can contact you if there’s an opportunity that fits your skills and experience.

Building a Federal Resume

Candidate Information A federal resume will ask your citizenship status and most, but not all, positions require you to be a U.S. citizen. You’re also asked if you’ve worked for the federal government before and if you qualify for veterans preference —that is, you’ve served on active duty in the Armed Forces.

Work experience Your resume should list all the relevant jobs you’ve held.

Required : Employer, location, title, start and end date, average hours worked per week, responsibilities and accomplishments for each job you list.

Optional : A supervisor(s) as a reference and salary, although not listing salary doesn’t exclude resumes from consideration.

Education Include information on the schools you attended and the relevant coursework you completed. Only list degrees from accredited schools, or programs that meet the Office of Personnel Management’s standards . Provide as much information as possible to support your case that you’re the best person for the job.

Required : Schools attended and degrees obtained.

Optional : Grade-point averages, relevant coursework, academic papers or projects, key presentations, honors received, other important accomplishments.

Optional Information

For the best shot at a position, provide as much pertinent information as possible in optional sections, including:

Job–related training 

This could include classes, seminars, coursework, certifications or training that relates to the skills and experience the position requires.

References 

Consider listing professional or personal references who can vouch for your character, work ethic and dependability—such as colleagues, classmates and mentors.

Language skills 

Include the languages you have experience in, and your level of proficiency.

Affiliations 

Use this to list professional associations, societies, clubs or other organizations you belong to and to highlight leadership roles and volunteer experiences you’ve had that relate to the position description.

Professional publications

If you’ve been published, include the outlets you’ve contributed to, the publication names and the date your submissions were published.

Additional information 

You can add other relevant information, including awards, leadership activities, public speaking engagements or volunteer experience. You can also add your availability, the type of work environment you seek and your desired location. Even if your interests and desires don’t match the position’s needs, your resume will stay in the running.

An official website of the United States government

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Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Quick Guide to Preparing a Resume For Federal Government Positions

Due to the volume of applications received for any given vacancy announcement within the website, your resume will most likely be processed through an electronic filtering mechanism before being reviewed by a Human Resources Specialist for a qualification determination. Your resume will also be screened according to certain preferences (e.g., Indian Preference, veterans, disability, etc.) and rated based on the extent and quality of your experience, education and training described on the vacancy announcement. It is essential that you tailor the experience listed on your federal resume to the specific position to which you are applying.

Once your application is rated, a quality review will be conducted by Office of Human Capital Management staff and/or a Subject Matter Expert (SME). Resumes are forwarded to the Hiring Manager for interview consideration. Once a hiring decision has been made, applicants will be notified.

Resume Writing

Before you begin, it may be helpful to compile all the information you want to include in your resume. The writing process will be much easier and faster.

It is important to thoroughly review the vacancy announcement for the position you are applying. You should tailor your resume to ensure you include the experience and skills that are required for the position.

What Should be Included in a Federal Resume?

A federal resume calls for some information that is not generally required on a standard resume for private industry positions, and not including the required information may immediately disqualify you from consideration. It is extremely important that you carefully read application instructions and include all required information. Below is an example of a resume for Federal employment:

First and Last Name Address City, State and Zip code Email address Phone Numbers

Special Hiring Authority: (Indian Preference, Veteran’s Preference or Person with Disability - Schedule A ) Federal Experience: ( Yes or No and Indicate Military, Federal or State Gov ) Security Clearance: ( Indicate what level and if it's still active ) OBJECTIVE: To obtain a full-time position in public service with ( Department of the Interior, Indian Affairs as a (Indicate the position including announcement Number if there is one )

SKILLS SUMMARY: ( Has 3 elements: An introductory paragraph, list of skills directly related to the position, and your skills you have acquired throughout your career, that you want to highlight ) (1st Element: The introductory paragraph - Must be specific and highly detailed for each job series and position you're applying to. You need to outline all the specific skills you have that are directly related to the position you are seeking including Key Words identified in the positions description.) Focused and highly motivated management professional, with 12 + years of extensive experience in Strategic Workforce Planning , EEO , OHR and Diversity Mgt . Utilizing my background in Disability, Accommodations, Business Operations, Project Management, and Statistical Analysis to develop comprehensive programs based on the employment needs and mission of the agency. Deploying metric -based solutions and maximizing our ROI . I'm an innovative and energetic team player, relationship builder, and highly effective communicator. (2nd Element: List of skills directly related to the position and the Key Words you identified - Back up your skill summary with specific examples from you career or education. Identify specific accomplishments, length of time, highlight numerical results and awards derived from those duties and skills. This is the most critical area of the resume. You are relating an activity in your career to that of the position you are applying and showcasing your accomplishments.)

• Develop and create a Strategic Workforce Planning program to ensure were accurately utilizing all available resources. Good Example

• Expert in Equal Employment, Labor and Employee Relations assisting managers and staff in identifying and solving EEO Policy questions on Accommodations, for the past 9 yrs. Better Example

• As Diversity manager I trained a staff of 100+ internal and external personnel on diversity rules and regulations. My efforts resulted in a 70% reduction in violations and improved the overall atmosphere at ABC Co. Best Example (3rd Element: Acquired skills - These are skills you want every employer to know you possess and feel they are what defines you as a model employee. Remember you MUST quantify and qualify every statement you make.)

• Analyze, develop, test and incorporated IT business solutions to enhance business process control and tracking. Good Example

• Supervised, motivated, mentored and lead by example, using experience backed judgment, strong work ethic, and irreproachable integrity, derived from my 12yrs as a Department Manager at ABC Co. Better Example

• Developed and implemented a supply inventory program, which tracked our use of production and office materials. This provided us detailed reports of our available inventory at all times. Allowing us to make more informed purchasing decisions. Resulting in ABC Co. to save 500,000 per year. Best Example

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY Name of Employer Position & Title GS level or Salary and Years of Service From: Mo/Year to Mo/Year; (Indicate if the work was Full Time, Part Time, or Seasonal; provide number of hours for PT or Seasonal work) Write a brief description of your experience/duties, and identify your major roles and responsibilities. Describe in detail each position you held for at least the last 10 years and quantify and qualify each statement). IP: Describe each duty as if you are describing it to someone for the first time. Agencies are not allowed to assume you can or can't do anything. Ex: Cashier: A cashier can perform numerous duties, if you only list cashier we can only interpret that as someone we collected and distributed money). As Diversity Manager I analyze develop and manage programs and projects related to the successful deployment of our department's initiatives. My duties included ensuring we provided an inclusive work environment, free from discrimination and ensuring we met all federal and state regulations. This was accomplished by collecting, analyzing human capital data and statistics from various sources to get an accurate analysis of the programs and work environment we provided our employees. • Performed labor market Statistical analysis and employment projections locally and nationally to determine our recruitment strategy to ensure we were recruiting from a diverse population. Good Example • Coordinated with the Office of Human Capital and EEO managers to develop programs to improve our diversity in the workplace. Performed detailed analysis of the current workforce, and developed a strategy to ensure we targeted a broader workforce. This had an immediate impact on community relations and a 20% increase in local sales. Better Example

• Diversity manager for the past 7 yrs I was responsible for a staff of 20 employees. I coordinated with our Office of Human Capital to develop and measure recruiting timelines and efficiency, to determine cost per employee hired and accurate return on investment. Identified various key elements related to recruiting and performed a statistical analysis on reducing cost per hire. This lead to a yearly savings of 15% on recruiting expenses. Best Example

ACCOMPLISHMENTS (Identify any areas of your career you feel an employer will get a better understanding of who you are and your additional activities, to included honors received by organizations, exceeding specific goals on projects, etc.)

• 2011 Supervised and managed the Specialty Hiring Programs, including NonCompetitive Direct Hiring Authorities, Military Spouse Employment and Individuals with Disabilities Programs, at the Department of Defense. • 2008 Liaised with union and management on contract negotiations and labor dispute settlements with global manufacturer. Prevented the loss of 200+ jobs and saving the company 1.3 million dollars.

• 2006 The Minority Entrepreneur Network - Assisted 5 minority startup companies in researching, forecasting, and drafting their business plans and applications for small business loans.

• 2005 Restructured vendor contracts for a gross savings resulting in $375K per quarter.

COMPUTER SOFTWARE (List all software and applications you are experienced in and level. Identify formal training and where you received that training)

ADDITIONAL TRAINING (List any formal or informal training including accreditations and number of hours in the specific field)

• I have attended various seminars on EEO compliance and diversity Good Example

• Extensive EEO Compliance Training: Laws & Discrimination, Diversity in the Workplace, Workplace Relationships, EEO Complaints and Resolutions: (80+ hrs of training) Better Example

• Extensive Project Management Training specializing in large scale projects and developing the project plans and schedule. All training was done at the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI) 2002 thru 2011 (120 hrs) Best Example

HONORS AND AWARDS

(Any formal awards you would like to share)

VOLUNTEER WORK & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

(Depending on the type of work volunteering can count the same as formal on the job experience if related to the position) (2010 - current) I hold Diversity workshops at the ABC community center in Washington DC, 6 times each month. I provide employers with information on developing an inclusive and diverse workforce. Note: volunteer work must include the total # of hours PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AAPD - American Association of Peoples with Disabilities HAVA - Honored American Veterans Afield NRA - National Rehabilitation Association PMI - Project Management Institute Wounded Warriors Project - Warriors to Work REFERENCES (List at least 3 references including their contact information)

indianaffairs.gov

An official website of the U.S. Department of the Interior

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Building Your Resume with USAJobs

by Barbara Adams , CPRW, CEIP, MFRW, MMRW, MFCA/T

What Is USAJobs?

USAJobs is the federal official employment site. It’s a job board designed for U.S. government agencies across the country and around the world. It connects qualified applicants to more than 500 agencies and organizations, posting more than 20,000 job openings every day in over 147 countries. When you establish an account, USAJobs provides a secure online environment to access and apply for these opportunities.

As the federal government’s official source for job listings, application information, and employment opportunities, USAJobs has attracted more than 17 million applicants since its inception. USAJobs 3.1 screens applicants’ responses to questionnaires found in most vacancy announcements in support of the level of experience you claim for specified questions. This step and your responses will determine if you qualify for the specific position. The responses to these questions and your experience, skills, education, training and accomplishments must be specified throughout your USAJobs resume.

The USAJobs online Federal Resume Builder has its own limitations and requirements. That means your information on USAJobs resumes must meet the required format, keyword criteria and characters permitted. USAJobs hosts many thousands of job applications for a variety of federal job openings in the U.S. and around the world.

Online formats tend to be restrictive and each has different format requirements. If not written correctly with the required USAJobs resume format, your application may end up being automatically rejected. This is why it’s incredibly important to learn how to write a resume for USAJobs correctly.

Let Us Write Your USAJobs Resume Correctly

Why is a USAJobs Resume is Important?

USAJobs announcements often attract dozens—and sometimes hundreds—of applicants. The USAJobs application process is designed to weed out candidates who cannot follow precise instructions and who don’t present experience that qualifies them for the position. Your application and your resume need to be crafted to clear this first hurdle.

The application process includes questions that address your level of experience. The catch is that your answers to those questions have to be supported by the body of your USAJobs resume. It’s important that your resume is crafted in such a way that it backs up your responses and presents to the hiring agency a highly knowledgeable and skilled candidate. It’s all too easy for otherwise qualified candidates to make simple errors or omissions and accidentally eliminate themselves from consideration early in the hiring process. As the leading USAJobs resume writing service in the industry, CareerProPlus can help you develop the application package that will get your federal resume seen and reviewed.

What Makes USAJobs Resumes Unique?

If you’ve worked in the private sector, you’re probably familiar with resumes that are one or two pages, but it’s different for federal government jobs. The USAJobs resume format is the most widely used style for federal hiring, and it includes much more information than you’d typically put on a corporate resume. CareerProPlus has developed a Headline Format for USAJobs resume that has been well received time and again by the Human Resources (HR) personnel of federal agencies. We are able to help you ensure the most compelling, impactful, and relevant parts of your federal resume stand out to HR when it matters most.

In addition to writing a USAJobs resume that accurately captures your experience and skills, we can also help you to flesh out and integrate the responses to the assessment questions that frequently accompany each posting, improving the chances that your application package will be reviewed.

Encoding Specific Keywords for USAJobs Resume Database Searches

Now that USAJobs is searchable throughout all federal agencies looking for qualified candidates, it is important to build USAJobs resumes in the federal resume builder instead of uploading your resume. This will not harm your chances if you just upload your USAJobs resume as an attachment for the specific job you are applying for, but when you apply for a vacancy using the online federal resume builder it will display specific keywords in custom data base searches when other agencies are seeking job candidates with your experience.

Creating a federal resume is a very detailed process, and it is very important that you know exactly how to code or write your USAJobs resume to generate a hiring authority’s interest in you. There are a different set of keywords for every job. Sometimes building your USAJobs resume can be overwhelming because they are much more comprehensive than applying for private-sector jobs. Unfortunately there is no reference book on keywords, but if you look at the job duties and specialized skills on each vacancy announcement you will find the keywords populated within the wording.

The bottom line is that the federal government now can search resumes on the USAJobs system by job-specific keywords. If your USAJobs resume is not populated with those words, it does not have a chance of being flagged for consideration for other positions that may become available. So don’t miss the chance to have your USAJobs resume searched for other federal job opportunities .

Why You Should Tailor Your USAJobs Resume for Each Position

Have you ever noticed the way your word choice varies, depending on whether you’re talking to your current boss, your significant other, your friends, or your family? This reflects a natural human desire to connect by using the most effective language in a given situation. You should think of your federal resume the same way. It should aim to use the most targeted language possible to convey a seamless fit with the hiring organization. One of the ways you can achieve this with a USAJobs resume is to update it to meet the specific experience requirements and keywords of each job posting.

Successful applicants also incorporate elements from their federal resume into the answers on the accompanying occupational questionnaire for the vacancy. By creating a consistent connection between the resume and the accompanying questionnaire, you will be able to communicate with HR more effectively and will be more likely to earn an interview.

All USAJobs vacancy announcements should be read and interpreted prior to applying. This is essential to ensure your USAJobs resume addresses all the specialized experience and assessment questions.

Effective USAJobs Resumes for Military Veterans

For military personnel, it is important to translate complex military terminology into terms more commonly used in civilian government agencies and the private sector. This is often one of the more difficult tasks for military personnel who attempt to write their own resumes, and it is something that the professional Master Federal Resume Writers at CareerProPlus have been helping Veterans with for more than 36 years.

In addition to following the established rules and detailed instructions of a job posting, it is important to ensure that the resume immediately communicates your eligibility. To help address this, we developed our signature Headline Format back in 1995, when the federal government phased out its Application for Federal Employment form (also known as the SF-171). This Headline Format has proven popular with federal HR offices because it places desired keywords at the beginning of each paragraph, allowing HR professionals to quickly and easily locate specialized experience and other requirements related to each U.S. government job vacancy announcement.

CLICK TO SEE SAMPLE RESUMES

Keeping Your USAJobs Resumes in the System and Up-to-Date

You can upload as many as five USAJobs resumes and keep them in your account for as long as you need them.

Of course, everything changes over time, and that includes the USAJobs system—sometimes without warning. This can render earlier resumes unsuitable for further use. Since successful candidates aren’t just well qualified but also well prepared, we recommend periodically connecting with a career coach to ensure that your USAJobs resume and credentials are up-to-date. Professional career coaches help focus applicants toward the opportunities that make the most of their training, experience, skills, and competencies. That’s why well-coached job applicants who have taken the time to receive the necessary training are often better positioned to secure a federal job than candidates with similar qualifications.

Do All Federal Agencies Use USAJobs?

An overwhelming majority of federal agencies use USAJobs. While some positions periodically get filled without being listed on the site, USAJobs is by far the best opportunity for most applicants to find and apply for federal government jobs. If you are seeking a certain position, or a position in a certain agency, our career coaches will work with you to devise a strategy that maximizes your visibility and competitiveness for your desired job.

Why is Federal Hiring Automated?

As a skilled individual with leadership experience, you know how important personality, attitude, and work ethic are to a successful career. While federal agencies also understand this, there are over 2 million full-time federal employees.

The U.S. government is actually the largest employer in the country. That means the sheer number of entries in the USAJobs application system makes it nearly impossible for all federal resumes to undergo a manual review.

This is why the federal employment process has been partially automated, streamlining the process to select only the USAJobs resumes that most closely match the qualifications requirements for a given position.

Who Can Use USAJobs?

USAJobs is a federal government job board available to any U.S. citizen. It provides tremendous opportunities for those already in the federal system to move up the ladder.

And if you’re interested in starting a career with the federal government, this is the first stop to make in your search. CareerProPlus can help you with your military-to-federal resumes or civilian federal resumes .

How Can USAJobs Help Me?

If you’re looking to improve the breadth of your job search, then USAJobs is the place to start. Here are just a few ways using USAJobs can help you with the next step in your career:

It can act as a resume and document repository, with the ability to keep up to five uploaded resumes in your account and ready for action.
You can perform an advanced search using keywords, location, or job category. You can even search by agency.
You can set up customized job alerts and other notifications by setting USAJobs to run job searches automatically and send you results via email daily, weekly, or monthly.
USAJobs lets you monitor your application status and see updates provided by the hiring agency.
USAJobs includes a comprehensive help section and provides resources such as FAQs, tutorials, and best practices for using the site.
USAJobs maintains a social media presence, so you can follow or like USAJobs on Facebook , LinkedIn , Twitter , and YouTube for the absolute latest.

How Do I Get Started With USAJobs?

The only requirement to establish a USAJobs account is a valid email. Simply click on “Create an Account” and follow the steps to complete the process. Once registered, you can complete your profile, build a resume, or upload an existing resume in a variety of compatible formats, including Word documents and PDF. The important thing to remember is that USAJobs requires a specific format for submission and has restrictive character counts in different parts of the resume.

You can begin your job search immediately upon registration using a variety of criteria, including agency name, job type, location, and even desired salary. Remember that thousands of new jobs are added to the USAJobs website every day!

What Else Should I Know About USAJobs?

The process of applying for a federal position on USAJobs can sometimes be a bit daunting, from understanding the terms used at various agencies to knowing exactly how the application process works; it can be very different from agency to agency and sometimes only slight changes can affect how you submit your resume and application. Keywords and accomplishments are also critical to building an effective resume for USAJobs.

It’s generally not a good idea to submit any old resume you have lying around to USAJobs. There is a specific format for a USAJobs resume that has proven to be most effective. If you aren’t sure how to proceed confidently, then it may be worth considering the services of a professional Master Federal Resume Writer™. CareerProPlus has mastered the fine art of the USAJobs resume —including through the use of our “secret weapon.”

If you’d like to deploy this secret weapon but aren’t sure where to begin, you can get started right here .

Get Started With Your Resume

( Source: USAJobs Help Center )

Barbara Adams, President and CEO of CareerPro Global (CPG), has been a member of the careers community for the past 25 years. Ms. Adams holds five prestigious industry certifications. CareerPro Global is the only ISO 9001-2008 Certified Career Service in the industry, as well as one of the fastest-growing Military, Federal, and Civilian Resume-Writing and Careers-Coaching companies. The team of Certified Professional Federal and Military Resume Writers at CPG assist thousands of clients in applying for and gaining employment each year. We can help you land your military to civilian job.

Learn More About Federal Government Jobs & Resumes

Federal vs. Private Sector Jobs
How to Get a Job in the Intelligence Community
Federal Jobs with Customs and Border Protection
How to Land a Defense Contractor Job
USAJobs Training
Administrative Law Judges
All Resume Services
Federal Resume Writing Services
Federal Job Search & Application Training
Sample Federal Resumes

Page Updated May 26, 2022

About the author:

Barbara Adams, CPRW, CEIP, MMRW, MFRW, MFCA-T

Barbara Adams is the founder and CEO of CareerPro Global, Inc. and has led the company since 1990. She is recognized as one of the pioneers in the career services industry and a titan of the resume writing industry. Barbara has built CPG into one of the largest and fastest-growing premier career services organizations industry-wide. She is committed to CPG’s core factors that include quality product, exceptional customer service, a successful proven process, and taking care of her people. Barbara has Co-Authored numerous books, including:

Roadmap to the Senior Executive Service
Roadmap to Becoming an Administrative Law Judge
Job-Winning Military to Civilian Resumes
Roadmap to Federal Jobs

She also co-authored the certification requirements for the Master Military Resume Writer (MMRW) and the Master Federal Career Advisor and Trainer (MFCA-T) certifications.

USAJOBS Resume Builder
Federal Resume Guide
UsaJobs Tips

Last Updated on 02/08/2024

Before you start creating a brand new resume to apply for a federal government position, you need to choose the way to build it. You can either make use of the USAJOBS resume builder or upload your own resume. The former has a number of advantages over the latter.

First of all, by using the USAJOBS resume builder, you will create a document in a standard federal resume format. It will make searching and evaluating your resume easier for federal human resources specialists.

Second, the USAJOBS resume builder allows you to duplicate your resume, which is very helpful when you need to upgrade the document or tailor it to a specific position. Offering you to use its federal resume builder, USAJOBS provide you with a professional resume writing instrument, which is worth trying out.

Table of Contents

1.1 1. Searching for Jobs
1.2 2. Tailor Your Resume for Each Specific Position
1.3 3. Do Not Leave Blank Fields
1.4 4. Proofread
1.5 5. Keyword Research
1.6 6. Consider Your Audience
2.1 Step-by-Step Guide on USAJOBS Resume Builder
2.2 Should I Use USAJOBS Resume Builder or Upload My File?
3 Wrapping It Up

USAJOBS Resume Builder Tips

For your resume to be searchable and efficient, take your time to learn the subtleties of the federal resume builder USAJOBS has created. We have come up with the top 4 tips that will help you avoid the common mistakes that often prevent the candidates from being recognized as qualified for the job.

1. Searching for Jobs

The USAJOBS search engine can be tough. To speed up your job searching process, use OPM Job Series. It’s one of the effective methods to find the right job in your field.

Read the announcement carefully! Before appl ying for a position, go to the Qualifications section in the vacancy announcement and preview the vacancy announcement questions.

Let’s compare a basic Qualifications list for a Marketing Assistance position :

And more detailed Qualifications list for a Strategic Marketing Analyst position :

As we can see, Qualifications requirements may vary depending on GS position, education, expert level skills or other specific knowledge relevant to a job announcement. So make sure to select a corresponding answer to each question prior to appl ying for a job posting.

2. Tailor Your Resume for Each Specific Position

This is indeed a tedious task but it is totally worth the effort. USAJOBS allows the employee to have 5 resumes created and uploaded via the USAJOBS resume builder.

Tailoring your resume for each specific federal job announcement can be the key to your success.

Although having similar titles, the different job announcement will be using different keywords to describe their requirements for the candidate. Keep your resume brief, describe your work experience and education relevant to the position you apply for.

The advantage of the resume builder is that you get a consistent federal cv, which can be found by a recruiter using a keyword search. Building a resume that is perfectly in tune with the specific announcement will help your application score more points in the competition.

Information for Veterans: The Saved Documents section on USAJOBS allows to save up to 10 supporting eligibility documents as recommendation letters, cover letters or performance reports.

3. Do Not Leave Blank Fields

It is true that a resume should normally be kept brief but with the federal government resumes, it is all about the perfect balance between being concise and being informative. The technical trick about the USAJOBS resume builder tool is to use all the fields it provides.

4. Proofread

Believe it or not but such an obvious step in the resume writing process is often neglected by the applicants. Typographical errors, not to speak of grammatical and spelling mistakes, will seriously impair the impressions of the federal HR specialist even about a seemingly perfect resume.

As a practice task, you can take any USAJOBS resume builder sample and evaluate it in terms of the points described above. This will train you to be more critical and attentive when you start building your own federal resume.

5. Keyword Research

Don’t forget that there is no automated sorting out of resumes — your qualifications will be checked and analyzed by real people. Given that they read through dozens of submissions, your task is to boost your application’s informational strength. Highlight crucial keywords — place yourself in the potential reader’s shoes.

Make your USAJOBS resume format clear and precise. Although it contains long paragraphs describing your skills or job-related accomplishments, add proper keywords to fit into the target position’s frames.

The keyword research as a process should fail into these two categories:

General — “teamwork”, “communication”, and something like “leadership” commonly have a universal appeal in making your resume get noticed among other applications. Still, it is better to see what requirements your position stays on to avoid overly general terms.
Specific — nonetheless, industry-specific keywords will help you nail it and showcase your professionalism and expertise in the target field. When applying for a government position, enrich your resume with the right content in headers, work experience, skills, and accomplishments sections. You don’t have to allocate them evenly throughout the text — the beginning of paragraphs or resume’s new sections are quite good for the task.

6. Consider Your Audience

When working on your federal resume’s content, conduct a thorough research about the hiring agency and its standards. You can focus on the most widespread expectations and format preferences in your field and adhere to them. Following a typical resume structure and using USAJOBS resume builder without much creative customization will help you stay on the safe side.

Consider your industry of expertise. Attorneys, budget analysts, human resources specialists, and civil engineers as a few examples of federal government jobs will have their distinctive storyline formats.

How to Create a Resume with USAJOBS Resume Builder

If you do not know what to start with, read through the instructions on How To Create and Develop USAJOBS Profile . We provide all the necessary basic technicalities of the resume building process. If you have a vague idea about what to write in each section, we highly recommend examining at least one USAJOBS resume builder example to see how a well-built final document should look like. Do not forget that all the information you put in your resume should not only be up-to-date and 100% correct but also demonstrating the level of your qualification for the job to the full extent.

If you want to get the best federal employee compensation package with benefits like taking part in the FSAFEDS or long-term care and health insurance, it is crucial to raise your resume’s potential. The easiest way is to include all the crucial details in the document and choose a template that caters to the interests of several agencies in the market. That’s why using the services of the official employment website of the federal government is such a lucrative opportunity.

Step-by-Step Guide on USAJOBS Resume Builder

Let’s check the step-by-step guide on your course of action on the USAJOBS:

Sign in or sign up. Provide your valid email address and select your language preference. You can choose from English, Spanish, and French newsletters.
Acknowledge the platform’s terms and conditions to complete the registration.
Check your mailbox for a confirmation letter from USAJOBS.

Once the registration is completed, confirm your account. The system will let you select the desired authentication method: security key, backup codes, voice or text message, authentication app, face or touch unlock.

Don’t leave blank fields — it will simplify your interaction with the platform. You can add hiring paths, citizenship, languages, experiences, and further details. The system lets you save up to five resumes and up to ten documents of other types (DD214, for instance).

Open the Documents tab to be able to upload a finished and polished resume to start your job search. If not ready yet, create a custom version matching the target position’s requirements.
Fill in the fields. Click “Add Work Experience”, “Add Education”, and “Add Reference”, enter the data, and hit the “Save” button for each section. For more detailed descriptions of your skills, you will have a field with 5000 characters available.
To move your ready paragraphs and adjust the storyline’s order, use the web’s arrows.
Click “Add” to provide other pieces of information, including your academic accomplishments or training. Although you have to be open about your experiences, there is a list of exceptions of what data is insufficient for a federal resume on the website: – in-depth personal information, including your religious preferences, sexual orientation, etc.; – personal photos (another difference between federal resumes versus private ones); – Social Security Number; – government and classified sensitive data (only approved files of general use). If your GPA is below 3.5, it isn’t a compulsory detail to include in your resume. Besides, make sure you double-check the qualification of educational establishments on your list — OES and NCOES military schools won’t be considered as high education institutions to apply for a federal position.
Review the provided data and proofread the document. Once you submit the application, no further changes will be possible.
Hit the “Finish” button to complete your resume for USAJOBS.gov.

Should I Use USAJOBS Resume Builder or Upload My File?

Both options can help you deliver top-notch resumes and prove your worth as a federal worker. Still, creating such a document from scratch requires certain skills and experiences. If it is your first time, there is nothing wrong with relying on ready-made templates from USAJOBS resume builder.

“Should I use USAJOBS resume builder?” is one of the most typical concerns of novice applicants. The key advantage of taking the most out of the website’s functions is that you minimize prospective risks.

Wrapping It Up

By taking a closer look at USAJOBS resume builder examples, it is easier to understand what format to pursue to get the best results. Follow the tips and suggestions from this guide to ensure your value as an ideal applicant in the eyes of the target hiring agency in the federal market. Make sure to customize your resume for every position with proper keywords, job-related training, and other facts that match up to its requirements. Good luck in finding the job of your dreams!

Still unsure about how to make federal resume? Read our USAJOBS Tips articles:

How long does USAJOBS take to review applications

How to delete USAJOBS account

How to fill out USAJOBS questionnaire

Thank you for your help!

very helpful

UVA Career Center

What is a federal resume when do you need to use it.

The federal resume is used to apply for many positions in the federal government and with intelligence agencies. If you are applying for a job through USAjobs.gov, there is a good chance that you need to have a federal resume. The federal resume is often the main component of your application to a federal position, which is why it includes more detailed information and can be more than one page. Look through this example federal resume to see what information you will need to include and how this type of resume is formatted.

How do I Make a Federal Resume?

If you’re building your first version of federal resume, you may want to use the USAjobs.gov resume builder tool. This can help you get started and help you follow the format including the content that you need for this type of resume. You can also take a look at all the resources listed below which can be helpful when thinking about the different pieces of information you may want to be highlighting. For these jobs, you have to check every box under their job description. Make sure to tailor your resume to each position, and use their words/language when creating your resume.

Keep in Mind:

Agencies and organizations within the intelligence community may have their own preferences and requirements for information to include within your application materials, so be sure that you research requirements for each position you apply to. Some intelligence agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) do not post to USAJobs.gov and ask for different information than a resume.

Helpful Links:

FBI Resume Guide

The Insiders Guide to the Federal Resume & USAJobs.gov

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Federal Resume Writing: USAJOBS and Resume Builder

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USAJOBS.gov is the official job-search website of the US Government. You have likely used it before if you have applied for a federal position. Along with listing the vast majority of open US government positions, USAJOBS also has an extensive library of resources that provide useful information about various positions and agencies within the government and a database of terminology and FAQs to assist the federal job seeker. The ability to navigate this site goes hand-in-hand with the importance of leveraging key information provided in vacancy postings to maximize the impact of your federal resume.

How do I use USAJOBS and What is Resume Builder?

An important first step to utilizing USAJOBS is creating an account. Make sure you provide accurate contact information and enable the “Make Your Resume Searchable” feature so that agencies can find your resume. When crafting your federal resume, be sure to review the USAJOBS vacancy posting and questionnaire for knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) and key phrases to align your resume with the job posting.

After writing a tailored and effective federal resume with a sleek and streamlined design, the next step is to adapt the content for potential entry into the USAJOBS Resume Builder, a feature of USAJOBS that allows users to build components of their resume online rather than providing a full document for submission.

Adapting the Federal Resume to the USAJOBS Resume Builder

It may seem tedious to have to adapt your resume for entry into Resume Builder, a text-only interface. However, some agencies require the use of Resume Builder when submitting your application so it’s essential to write a federal resume that is easily adaptable in terms of formatting and basic design. To streamline the submission process, you should create your federal resume as a standalone document (essentially a USAJOBS resume) that meets all federal resume formatting and content requirements for easy entry into Resume Builder.

When building your standalone USAJOBS resume for Resume Builder, it is crucial to use simple formatting without text styling or bullets. In addition, detailed information about each position regarding employment dates, hours worked, and pay grade will need to be entered manually.

Content that needs to be adjusted to use Resume Builder: • To ensure that your Career Summary appears at the top of the resume, you will need to enter it as the first job entry. • Bold and italics should be substituted with all caps, and any special symbols such as ampersands should be avoided unless they are part of an organization’s title. • Bullets should be substituted with a + sign as this is recognized by Resume Builder. • You are only allowed 5000 characters for the main body of the resume, so if you exceed this you will need to enter any additional material into the Additional Information section. Federal resume writers generally consider this to be less than ideal, so it’s best to limit your document to fewer than 5000 characters.

The process of writing a federal resume can be time-consuming and requires attention to detail in order to ensure that all requirements regarding resume content, formatting, and submission are achieved. Along with learning how to successfully navigate USAJOBS and crafting a federal resume tailored to your ideal position, there is the additional hurdle of adapting your federal resume to the Resume Builder. To discover more strategies leveraged by experienced government resume writers for effectively managing the federal resume writing and application process, review our comprehensive USAJOBS Resume Guide .

Federal Resumes: USAJobs Resume Builder Tips

Post author By Camille Carboneau Roberts

You submitted your federal application package with a detailed resume through the USAJobs.gov resume builder tool.

You also included a cover letter and answered the questionnaire.

You submitted your package well before the application deadline, and received the standard email that confirmed submission.

You’ve waited patiently for weeks, but you have still not been referred to a hiring official and are now questioning whether anyone read your application package — or even knows you applied!

Sound familiar?

I have reviewed thousands of resumes and have noticed a broad range of mistakes.

Even the most minor mistakes can prevent your application from reaching the hiring official!

14 Federal Resume Tips for USAJobs.gov

Are you ready to learn how to ensure YOUR resume doesn’t land in the black hole? Here we go…

1. Before you consider applying to a federal job, make certain you are fully qualified.

Many people apply to jobs for which they are not qualified.

If you do not meet the requirements, you simply will not be considered. This may be the reason your resume is orbiting the black hole.

When you find a position for which you would like to apply:

Carefully read the requirements and the factors you will be evaluated against.
Copy and paste these into a new Word document.
Make each requirement and factor a separate bullet point.
After each bullet, write a few sentences explaining how you meet that requirement — specifically using experience and accomplishments.

If there are several requirements that you can’t write about to demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and abilities, don’t waste your time applying for the position. Continue looking for another announcement. Then, repeat this exercise with another job.

When you are satisfied that you meet the stated requirements and fully qualify, continue with your application. (If you need a tool to help you do this, please contact me.)

2. Demonstrate on Page 1 that you meet the qualifications and all the requirements.

When they first see your resume, hiring managers should see immediately that you meet the job’s requirements.

Use the information you just developed (in #1, above) to create a marketing section on page one of your resume that demonstrates how you meet each requirement and evaluation factor included in the job announcement.

An ideal first page would include three critical sections:

A short profile summary demonstrating your accomplishments and ability to carry out the job duties listed in the announcement.
A Key Qualifications section that proves you meet the requirements and evaluation factors included in the job announcement.
A Core Competencies section that lists key skills and expertise listed in the job announcement.

Page 1 is prime resume real estate. Throughout the page, incorporate key words and keyword phrases from the job announcement that match up with your expertise.

3. Avoid the mistake of writing one resume for multiple job announcements.

Treat each job announcement and application as a unique submission. Each announcement is different.

Modify your application for each announcement.

You can even do this the old-fashioned way. Print a hard copy of the announcement, mark each requirement with a highlighter, and check off each item when you have incorporated it into your resume.

4. Ensure there are no typographical errors and missing or incorrect data as you create your resume in the USAJOBS builder tool.

While this may seem obvious, I frequently notice mistakes, especially in the contact information and headings.

Typos and other errors are a sure way to create an immediate negative impression sending your resume immediately into the black hole.

Do not rush this process! Proceed carefully and thoughtfully to ensure accuracy. Use spell check, proofread your work, find a friend to review it as well, then hire us to review.

5. Apply as early as you can.

Developing a strong package takes time. Start early!

The process of building your resume and applying online may take several hours. You may encounter technical difficulties or other unforeseen obstacles.

Waiting until the last minute will create unnecessary stress. That could cause you to hurry your work (creating errors), or not have enough time so you miss the deadline. Deadly mistakes!

6. Include names and contact information for past supervisors.

USAJOBS allows you to provide the name and contact information for each of your supervisors. Leaving this blank may spark the hiring manager’s curiosity.

If your job search is confidential, it is appropriate to state so. You can indicate that the supervisor may be contacted after a job offer on your “uploaded” resume.

For former supervisors, list their name and contact information. It’s a reality that not everyone gets along on the job so if you left on bad terms, list their name, and choose the “ May Not Contact ” option.

7. List your GPA.

Many federal job seekers leave this field blank. Regardless of your age and even if your GPA is 2.0 (or below), include it.

GPA is not the only determining factor when interviewing or selecting a candidate. It’s better to put a low GPA on than to leave it off.

There are many strategies one can use to overcome a lower GPA , but do not leave this field blank. Don’t make them look for ANYTHING!

8. Complete the Relevant Coursework section.

Take advantage of this section that many federal job seekers leave blank.

Spend the extra few minutes listing three to four courses you have taken that are relevant to the job. These could be the competitive edge you need to get to the interview.

9. Provide references.

The USAJOBS resume builder allows you to provide up to five references. I recommend taking full advantage of this! Offering several references creates a strong positive impression.

Be sure to include references that can validate your work ethic and character, as well as become your allies in landing your new job!

Contact your references in advance! Request their permission to include their names, and ensure they will speak positively on your behalf. Let them know what you are applying for and advise or remind them of projects you worked on and what you would like them to mention in the conversation.

10. Make your resume searchable.

After you build your resume into the USAJOBS builder, be sure to make it searchable by simply clicking on the link “ Make Searchable .” This will allow prospective employers to find your resume. It will also be the one you choose when you apply to the job announcement.

11. Upload Microsoft Word and PDF versions of your resume.

In the Saved Documents area of your USAJOBS profile, you can upload the PDF version of your resume and other documents. Doing this makes it easy for the prospective employer to retrieve and share your resume.

Uploading your resume is not a replacement for completing the Resume Builder, if the job announcement requires it. Be sure to read the “ How to Apply ” section carefully and follow the instructions precisely.

12. Upload and label accompanying forms.

Be sure to correctly label each required form, and upload them into the Saved Documents area. Leaving out requested forms or making them difficult for the employer to find can get your application disqualified for being incomplete.

13. Save a copy of your answers to the online questions.

Many announcements include an online questionnaire that you must submit.

Write, save, and print the answers in case you run into technical issues during the application process. I recommend that you copy and paste the questionnaire into Microsoft Word. Then, write your answers in Word.

If there are system problems, you can call the contact person listed on the announcement and obtain guidance.

Copy your answers back to the online questionnaire when you are finished. Creating your answers in Word before copying them into USAJOBS should help eliminate misspellings and some other errors.

14. Include your email address and phone number.

Make sure they can contact you easily! Be sure your email address is professional. I recommend setting up a Gmail account with your first and last name.

Make it easy for them to remember you, and contact you. I have seen phone numbers with missing area codes or missing digits and incomplete emails.[Be careful of the email address you use for your federal application !]

The Bottom Line on Federal Resumes

The Federal hiring process is tedious, not impossible. Start off your job search by being organized and have a plan. Prepare the best possible career communications required by the job announcement which could be a cover letter, customized resume , and narratives. Make it easy for them to select you for the interview, as well as to hire you! Give them the information they require. Don’t hesitate to hire a professional career coach . Be thorough, careful, and implement the tips above and your effort should pay off!

Wishing you much success in your job search!

More Information About Landing a Federal Government Job:

7 Steps to Land a US Federal Government Job
10 Federal Job Search Mistakes
Don’t Let Your Email Address Ruin Federal Job Opportunities
Additional How to Find a Federal Government Job articles on Job-Hunt
How to Avoid Common USAJOBS.gov Mistakes

Job-Hunt’s Federal Job Search Expert, Camille Carboneau Roberts , established CC Career Services in 1989 to provide total career management services to help clients land jobs faster. Expert services include federal resumes, private sector resumes, military-to-federal resumes, and social media resumes and profiles. Contact Camille via email at [email protected] , through LinkedIn , Twitter (@CamilleRoberts), or Facebook (CC Career Services). More about this author …

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An official website of the United States government

Virtual Federal Resume Writing Workshop

Hosted by U.S. Agency for International Development

Event Date: August 6, 2024 1:00-2:00 EST

Event Description: Join USAID's Virtual Federal Resume Writing Workshop to help Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to succeed in your federal job search. Don't miss out! Your resume can help you earn a fulfilling career in USAID.

In this interactive workshop, you will get:

Guidance in writing your resume
Learn key differences between federal and private sector resumes
Get tips to highlight your skills and experience to attract attention
An overview of the federal application process
Learn how to navigate USAJOBS
A chance to participate in a Q&A with experts

To request reasonable accommodations, please email the Office of Civil Rights and Diversity at [email protected].

See more details

Writing Your Resume for Federal Jobs - Cost-free

Hosted by Office of Personnel Management

Cost-free This information session will provide participants with information on how best to write a resume that highlights strengths, accomplishments and results. You will learn what information to include on your resume, tips to market yourself how to describe your experience. Participants will leave this session armed with information to craft an effective resume.

National Park Service Federal Jobs Webinar - Mastering the Federal Job

Hosted by National Park Service

National Park Service Federal Jobs Webinar – Mastering the Federal Job Application Process: How to Make Your Federal Resume Work for You!

You’ve been invited to our National Park Service (NPS) Federal Jobs Webinar - Mastering the Federal Job Application Process: How to Make Your Federal Resume Work for You. Space is limited and you won’t want to miss this! Please make sure to reserve your spot today and take the first step towards getting your dream career with the National Park Service. https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/3b9e60e7-4da7-4ae7-b331-ee4388ee9f14@0693b5ba-4b18-4d7b-9341-f32f400a5494

In this webinar, the National Park Service Recruitment Team will share amazing tips and strategies for navigating the USAjobs application process as well as crafting compelling federal resumes, how the federal hiring process works, why your USAJobs profile is so important, and so much more!

Treasury's - Writing Your Federal Resume

Hosted by Department of the Treasury

Come Grow With Us! This presentation was designed to help applicants understand the federal resume. The briefing explains each section of the job opportunity announcement (JOA) in an effort to better inform applicants and to assist them in selecting in or out of the job. The main part of the briefing uses a 3-part process to assist applicants in writing their resume. Attendees are shown a real JOA and walked through a process that helps them review the JOA to determine qualifications and interest, identify the important requirements and then they are shown how to properly tailor their resumes to the JOA. Lastly, we will do a quick overview of the resume builder within USAJOBS.

Virtual Federal Resume Workshops

Hosted by Federal Emergency Management Agency

We are so excited to announce that the FEMA Resume Writing Workshop is back, starting on August 13.

This Zoom presentation, provided by the FEMA recruitment team, will introduce applicants to FEMA and guide them on how to develop a Federal Resume to apply for FEMA vacancies. The topics include:

- FEMA General Overview - Federal Resume Writing Tips - How to Navigate USA Jobs - Additional Resources

The workshop will take place on the second Tuesday of each month from 5:00 - 6:30 PM Eastern Standard Time.

Mark your calendars for this valuable opportunity to refine your resumes and stand out in your career development. FEMA encourages all interested applicants to participate and make the most of this resource.

To register for FEMA Resume Writing Workshop: https://www.fema.gov/event/fema-resume-writing-workshop

Navigating the Federal Hiring Process: Crafting Your Federal Resume

Hosted by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

As the nation’s preeminent public health promotion, protection, preparedness, and prevention agency, CDC works 24/7 to conduct critical science and provides health information that protects our nation against public health threats, both foreign and domestic. Join us for this informative session to hear directly from CDC Recruiters to gain expert knowledge on how to craft your federal resume, tackle the assessment questionnaire, and discover ways to becoming the most competitive applicant during your federal job application process. Please contact [email protected] for any accommodation requests.

FEMA Overview and Federal Resume Workshop

FEMA will host a recurring virtual resume writing workshop each second Tuesday of the month from 5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. ET, to help interested applicants tailor their resumes for federal employment at FEMA. The next workshop will be held Aug. 13. Attending a resume writing workshop can help you to take your resume to the next level. By joining a workshop, you will receive expert guidance from professionals who understand the challenging requirements of federal resumes and will provide you with the tools needed to ensure your resume complies with federal resume requirements. Specific topics to be covered will include:

An overview of FEMA.
Federal resume writing tips.
Navigating USA Jobs.
Additional resources.

For questions and to request reasonable accommodations, email [email protected] .

VA FEDERAL APPLICATION WEBINAR

Hosted by Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer

During the federal application process session, VMSTEP personnel will present on how to write a Federal Government resume, set up a user account and navigate USAJOBS. Get ready to learn insider tips and tricks for crafting a standout federal application that will get you noticed by top federal employers. You will learn the difference between a private sector and federal resume and tips to enhance describing your experience. Veterans, transitioning service members, military spouses and individuals qualified under Schedule A (People with Disabilities/People with Targeted Disabilities) will leave this session armed with information on how to develop a competitive application and how to craft an effective resume for use in applying for positions with VA and other federal agencies.

Treasury's - Interviewing Techniques

Come Grow With Us - This presentation introduces the audience to the interview process within the Federal government. It explains the types of interviews (structured/unstructured), different delivery methods, types of common questions, responding utilizing the S.T.A.R (Situation/Task, Action, Result) method and how to prepare for an interview.

Interview Techniques

Join the staff of the Recruitment Policy and Outreach (RPO) division of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), for an in-depth presentation on the Federal Government interview process. It explains the types of interviews, delivery methods, common questions, responding using the Situation/Task, Action, Result (STAR) method and preparing for an interview.

Department of the Treasury's - Writing Your Federal Resume

Come Grow With Us! This presentation is designed to help applicants understand the federal resume. The briefing explains each section of the job opportunity announcement (JOA) in an effort to better inform applicants and to assist them in selecting in or out of the job.

The main part of the briefing uses a 3-part process to assist applicants in writing their resume. Attendees are shown a real JOA and walked through a process that helps them review the JOA to determine qualifications and interest, identify the important requirements and then they are shown how to properly tailor their resumes to the JOA. Lastly, we will do a quick overview of the resume builder within USAJOBS.

Navigating the Federal Hiring Process Series: Interview Tips

As the nation’s preeminent public health promotion, protection, preparedness, and prevention agency, CDC works 24/7 to conduct critical science and provides health information that protects our nation against public health threats, both foreign and domestic. Join us for this informative session to hear directly from CDC Recruiters to gain expert knowledge on how to prepare for your interview, learn best practices to use during your interview, and discover ways to becoming the most competitive applicant during your federal job application process. Please contact [email protected] for any accommodation requests.

Your session is about to expire!

Your USAJOBS session will expire due to inactivity in eight minutes. Any unsaved data will be lost if you allow the session to expire. Click the button below to continue your session.

More From Forbes

How to write a resume with global appeal.

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In today’s interconnected world, having a resume that appeals to a global audience is more important than ever.

Whether you’re aiming for an international role or working in a multicultural environment, tailoring your resume to have global appeal can significantly enhance your chances of landing your dream job.

Here are some key strategies to help you create a resume that stands out on the global stage.

Use the correct format

The format of your resume can vary greatly depending on the country and industry you’re targeting.

In the United States, a chronological format is common, focusing on work history in reverse order, however, in many European countries, a functional or skills-based resume is preferred, which highlights your skills and competencies over your job titles.

Research the standard resume formats in the country you’re applying to and be sure to adapt your resume accordingly.

For instance, in Germany, it’s typical to include a professional photo and personal information at the top of your resume, while in the UK, personal photos are generally avoided.

Using the correct format demonstrates your attention to detail and your respect for the local business culture.

Research the country

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Understanding the specific requirements and preferences of the job market in different countries is crucial.

Research the cultural norms, business etiquette, and resume expectations of the country where you’re applying. This includes knowing what to include in your resume and what to avoid.

For example, some countries may value detailed descriptions of your educational background and qualifications, while others may prioritize professional achievements and work experience.

In Japan, resumes often include personal interests and hobbies to give employers a sense of your personality, whereas in the US, such details are typically omitted.

In Australia, the job search process often involves highlighting relevant work experience and achievements directly related to the job description, with a strong focus on alignment with the role’s requirements.

Tailoring your resume to meet these local expectations can make a significant difference in how your application is received.

Tailoring your resume to have global appeal can significantly enhance your chances of landing your ... [+] dream job.

Showcase your cultural understanding

Employers value candidates who can navigate and contribute to a multicultural work environment – highlighting your cultural understanding and ability to work with diverse teams can easily set you apart.

Include examples of how you’ve successfully managed cross-cultural projects or worked with international teams.

If you’ve participated in cultural training programs, international business courses, or have experience living abroad, make sure to mention these in your resume.

This shows that you’re not only aware of cultural differences but also capable of bridging them, which is a highly desirable trait in today’s global job market.

Highlight your language skills

Language skills are a valuable asset in the global job market. Fluency in multiple languages not only enhances your ability to communicate but also demonstrates your cultural adaptability.

Clearly list the languages you speak and your proficiency level in each, and if you have certifications or have taken formal language courses, be sure to include these credentials.

Additionally, provide examples of how you’ve used your language skills in a professional context, such as translating documents, conducting business negotiations, or managing multilingual teams.

Highlighting your language proficiency can make you a more attractive candidate for international roles.

Showcase your international experience

Employers often seek candidates with a proven track record of working in international settings, so if you have experience working abroad, make sure to highlight this in your resume.

Detail the countries you’ve worked in, the nature of your roles, and the achievements you accomplished during your time there.

Discuss any international projects you’ve led or been a part of and describe how you navigated challenges related to cultural differences, time zones, and communication barriers.

This demonstrates your ability to thrive in diverse environments and manage the complexities of international business.

Include your visa status

When applying for jobs in a different country, your visa status can be a crucial piece of information for potential employers.

Clearly stating your eligibility to work in the country can streamline the hiring process and make you a more appealing candidate.

If you already have a work visa or permanent residency, mention this on your resume, and if you’re in the process of obtaining a visa or require sponsorship, it’s beneficial to state this as well.

Being upfront about your visa status helps employers understand your situation and consider the logistics involved in hiring you.

Writing a resume with global appeal involves understanding and respecting the diverse expectations of international job markets.

By using the correct format, researching the country, showcasing your cultural understanding, highlighting your language skills, and including your visa status, you can create a resume that resonates with global employers.

These strategies will help you stand out in a competitive international job market and increase your chances of securing your desired role.

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Usajobs Resume Template Federal Resume Government & Military Transition
Usa Jobs Resume Format : Free 8 Sample Federal Resume Templates In Ms
Usa Jobs Resume Examples

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You can apply for these federal remote jobs on usajobs.gov. Make sure you qualify before applying!
Create an account on USAjobs.gov
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How to Find a Job in the USA
USAJOBS: Creating a USAJOBS Profile (Audio Description)

COMMENTS

USAJOBS Help Center
To build a resume in USAJOBS: Sign into USAJOBS. Go to your Documents. Make sure you're in the Resumes section and select the Upload or build resume button. Click Build resume. Name your new resume and click Next. Click Add Work Experience, enter the required information and click Save Work Experience. To add additional work experience repeat ...
USAJOBS Help Center
How to create a resume. You can create a resume in two ways: Build a resume using our Resume Builder. Upload a resume that you already have. When applying to a federal job, you need to include specific information in your resume. Read our tips on what you should include in your federal resume. Contact us.
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.
PDF writing An EFFECTIVE FEDERAL RESUME
A guide to understanding and writing an effective Federal resume. Your resume is your marketing tool in which to describe why you may be the best candidate for the position for which you are applying. When writing your resume, you should consider your accomplishments, making your resume is results-driven. It is best to break your resume down ...
USAJOBS
First, create and complete your profile to apply for any job on USAJOBS. With a USAJOBS profile, you can save jobs, automate job searches, and manage everything you need to complete your application, including resumes and required documents. Once you create your profile, you can search for jobs. It's best to sign into your profile before searching.
Federal Resumes Guide for USAJobs
The first step to leveraging USAJOBS is to create an account, ensuring that you fill out all of the required information, including the profile and preference sections. ... Resume Builder is a feature of USAJOBS that allows the user to build components of their resume online rather than providing a full document for submission. Some federal ...
Federal Resume Tips
Resume Checklist. We encourage you to use the USAJobs online Resume Builder. If you use your own resume, you must include the following information: Contact information. This includes your name, address, day and evening telephone numbers, and email address; Citizenship (if other than the U.S.) Relevant work experience. This includes paid and ...
PDF How to create a Federal Resume on USAJobs.gov using Resume Builder
USAJOBS account, or to create a new account. NOTE: You must have an account to create a resume and apply for federal jobs. Login or select "Create an account" and follow directions for setup in order to proceed. NOTE: If you are an active duty service member, DO NOT use your military email to create this account.
Writing a Federal Resume • Go Government
Key Components of a Federal Resume. The best way to create a federal resume is to use the resume builder on the federal government's jobs website, USAJOBS. The resume builder will guide you through the whole process. And you don't have to stick with one. You can create a resume tailored to fit different positions you apply for.
Quick Guide to Preparing a Resume For Federal Government Positions
Federal agencies advertise vacancies online at USAJOBS. The USAJOBS website is an online database that enables job seekers to search for positions by location, job categories, etc. The website offers the option to upload an existing resume or use their resume builder tool to create a new resume. It is recommended that you use the resume builder.
Federal Resume: Example, Template & How to Write
Here's a resume template with everything you need to build a resume for uploading to USAJOBS: 1. Resume Heading. FIRST AND LAST NAME. Address: your street, city, state, zip code | Email: [email protected] | Phone: xxx xxx xxxx. Desired job: Title, grade (GS #), announcement number. Citizenship:
PDF Federal Resume Guide
Federal Resume Guide Page 5 Tab 1 - Overview - briefly describes the job and provides basic information regarding salary, who may apply, duty location, open period for acceptance of applications, and job summary. Tab 2 - Duties - cites the major duties and responsibilities of the job. Tab 3 - Qualifications and Evaluations - lists the type of skills/competencies you need
USAJOBS resume tutorial
Our last tutorial proved resumes are scanned! Your resume isn't working? Now learn why you should not upload your resume and focus on setting up your USAJOB...
USAJOBS Help Center
How to build a resume. To build a resume in USAJOBS: Sign into USAJOBS. Go to your Documents.; Make sure you're in the Resumes section and select the Upload or build resume button.; Click Build resume.; Name your new resume and click Next.; Click Add Work Experience, enter the required information and click Save Work Experience.To add additional work experience repeat this step or click Next ...
How To Build a Federal Resume (With Template)
2. Create a clean layout with proper formatting. Choose a simple black font that is easy to read. Federal resumes should be kept simple, clean and effective while following the basic outline presented below.
Tips for Building a Resume with USAJobs
The only requirement to establish a USAJobs account is a valid email. Simply click on "Create an Account" and follow the steps to complete the process. Once registered, you can complete your profile, build a resume, or upload an existing resume in a variety of compatible formats, including Word documents and PDF.
USAJOBS Resume Builder: Tips and Examples
First of all, by using the USAJOBS resume builder, you will create a document in a standard federal resume format. It will make searching and evaluating your resume easier for federal human resources specialists. Second, the USAJOBS resume builder allows you to duplicate your resume, which is very helpful when you need to upgrade the document ...
Federal Resumes
The federal resume is used to apply for many positions in the federal government and with intelligence agencies. If you are applying for a job through USAjobs.gov, there is a good chance that you need to have a federal resume. The federal resume is often the main component of your application to a federal position, which is why it includes more ...
How To Write a Federal Resume (Plus Tips and Example)
Here are some tips on how to write a federal resume: 1. Identify the role. Before your contact information, consider identifying the role you're applying for. It's sometimes appropriate to include the formal name of the role, its General Schedule (GS) grade and its identification number. You can usually find this information in the job description.
Federal Resume Writing: USAJOBS and Resume Builder
To streamline the submission process, you should create your federal resume as a standalone document (essentially a USAJOBS resume) that meets all federal resume formatting and content requirements for easy entry into Resume Builder. When building your standalone USAJOBS resume for Resume Builder, it is crucial to use simple formatting without ...
Federal Resumes: USAJobs Resume Builder Tips
10. Make your resume searchable. After you build your resume into the USAJOBS builder, be sure to make it searchable by simply clicking on the link " Make Searchable .". This will allow prospective employers to find your resume. It will also be the one you choose when you apply to the job announcement. 11.
USAJOBS
Event Date: August 6, 2024 1:00-2:00 EST. Event Description: Join USAID's Virtual Federal Resume Writing Workshop to help Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to succeed in your federal job search. Don't miss out! Your resume can help you earn a fulfilling career in USAID.
How To Write A Resume With Global Appeal
Research the standard resume formats in the country you're applying to and be sure to adapt your resume accordingly. For instance, in Germany, it's typical to include a professional photo and ...

How to build a resume

Save your work periodically

Updating your resume

Tips for formatting resumes in USAJOBS resume builder

Tips for submitting resumes to agencies

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Tips for Writing a Federal Resume

Table of Contents

Federal Resume Sample

Strategies for Writing a Successful Federal Resume

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Free 1 on 1 Consultation

Writing a Federal Resume

Key Components of a Federal Resume

Building a Federal Resume

Optional Information

Quick Guide to Preparing a Resume For Federal Government Positions

Resume Writing

What Should be Included in a Federal Resume?

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What Is USAJobs?

Why is a USAJobs Resume is Important?

What Makes USAJobs Resumes Unique?

Encoding Specific Keywords for USAJobs Resume Database Searches

Why You Should Tailor Your USAJobs Resume for Each Position

Effective USAJobs Resumes for Military Veterans

Keeping Your USAJobs Resumes in the System and Up-to-Date

Do All Federal Agencies Use USAJobs?

Why is Federal Hiring Automated?

Who Can Use USAJobs?

How Can USAJobs Help Me?

How Do I Get Started With USAJobs?

What Else Should I Know About USAJobs?

Learn More About Federal Government Jobs & Resumes

About the author:

Barbara Adams, CPRW, CEIP, MMRW, MFRW, MFCA-T

USAJOBS Resume Builder Tips

1. Searching for Jobs

2. Tailor Your Resume for Each Specific Position

3. Do Not Leave Blank Fields

4. Proofread

5. Keyword Research

6. Consider Your Audience

How to Create a Resume with USAJOBS Resume Builder

Step-by-Step Guide on USAJOBS Resume Builder

Should I Use USAJOBS Resume Builder or Upload My File?

Wrapping It Up

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How do I Make a Federal Resume?

Keep in Mind:

The Insiders Guide to the Federal Resume & USAJobs.gov

Federal Resume Writing: USAJOBS and Resume Builder

How do I use USAJOBS and What is Resume Builder?

Adapting the Federal Resume to the USAJOBS Resume Builder

Federal Resumes: USAJobs Resume Builder Tips

14 Federal Resume Tips for USAJobs.gov

1. Before you consider applying to a federal job, make certain you are fully qualified.

2. Demonstrate on Page 1 that you meet the qualifications and all the requirements.

3. Avoid the mistake of writing one resume for multiple job announcements.

4. Ensure there are no typographical errors and missing or incorrect data as you create your resume in the USAJOBS builder tool.

5. Apply as early as you can.

6. Include names and contact information for past supervisors.

7. List your GPA.

8. Complete the Relevant Coursework section.

9. Provide references.

10. Make your resume searchable.

11. Upload Microsoft Word and PDF versions of your resume.

12. Upload and label accompanying forms.

13. Save a copy of your answers to the online questions.

14. Include your email address and phone number.

The Bottom Line on Federal Resumes

More Information About Landing a Federal Government Job:

Guides to Smarter Job Search

Guide to LinkedIn for Job Search

Guide to Working From Home

Guide to Working with Recruiters

Guide to Freelancing and Contracting

Guide to the Temporary Work Option