If you have found yourself leaving your federal or civil service position, the following advice can help you navigate your new journey. While it may be challenging, it can also inspire you to open up new pathways and explore opportunities you have not entertained before. The following advice can help you successfully navigate your transition from the federal government to the private sector.
Clarify Your Goals
Take a holistic look at your knowledge, skills, and abilities and identify target industries you are interested in and where you can make a difference. Compare your most recent classification description to what you are seeing in the private industry job market. Then articulate your transferable skills. Once you identify your target industry, follow thought leaders to understand trends and best practice and comment on their social media posts. This can draw you into relevant conversations.
Networking
Before you leave your government or civil service position, create contacts with your colleagues/managers before you lose that government email address. Consider people from past, prior managers/coworkers, alumni, etc.
Professional Development
Consider upskilling to keep up with trends and updated technology. There are a multitude of online companies that specialize in professional development and technical training, including Coursera, edX, HubSpot Academy, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and Khan Academy.
Rebranding / LinkedIn Profile.
You may not have a LinkedIn profile coming from the government sector, but it is a must in private industry. Craft a compelling LinkedIn profile that highlights your transferable skills and accomplishments. Use keywords relevant to your target industry. In addition to putting yourself out there, you are building a network of like-minded professionals.
Coaching
Consider working with a career coach who specializes in helping government employees transition to the private sector. A coach can provide valuable guidance on resume writing, interviewing skills, and networking strategies. Some coaches specialize in this transition and hold the Certified Veteran Career Strategist (CVCS) certification.
Resume and Cover Letter Update
Hire a professional resume writer to redesign your resume, presenting your experience and what you have to offer. As a federal employee, you probably have a very long resume with detailed information. In private industry, it is necessary to be as succinct as possible in demonstrating what you have to offer a prospective employer. Focus on measurable results using corporate terminology. The bottom line, your new resume will be no longer than 2 pages, regardless of your experience. An experienced resume writer can help you craft a compelling resume that showcases your (skills, knowledge, and abilities), translating them into private speak.
Security Clearance
If you have a security clearance, be sure to add it to your new resume. This clearance can be a significant asset when transitioning to certain industries, particularly those related to defense, technology, or national security. If a company does need to go through this process, it takes time, effort, and money. Having a security clearance will be a bonus to a prospective employer. It shows that you have met the high bar for this position and that you are a trusted agent.
Final Thoughts
One final upside to mention if you do transition, you can start building a private industry pension/benefit package that you will be able to draw on in the future, in addition to your federal pension.
By following this systematic approach, you can increase your chances of landing your new job in private industry.
Other Resources
Other resources for additional information can be found in this Military OneSource article.
As well as in this Forbes article
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