What’s the difference between a federal resume and standard resume?

When you’re applying for a federal job, you’ll need to create a federal resume. This is different from a standard resume in several ways. For one, a federal resume is usually longer, as it needs to include more detailed information about your work history and skills. It also needs to be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for, as federal jobs often require specific qualifications.

Not sure how to create a federal resume? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll break down the difference between a federal resume and a standard resume. We’ll also give you some tips on how to create a federal resume that will help you get the job you want.

If you’re applying for a job with the federal government, you’ll need to use a federal resume. A federal resume is a resume used to apply for a job with the federal government.

A federal resume is different from a standard resume in several key ways:

– Federal resumes are usually longer than standard resumes.

– Federal resumes must include more detailed information about your work history and skills.

– Federal resumes must be tailored to the specific job you are applying for.

– Federal resumes must use specific keywords and accomplish certain objectives.

– Federal resumes must follow a certain format.

From a resource provided by the Department of Energy: 

“You must show in your writing that you meet eligibility requirements and are the best candidate for the position, as more often than not a decision panel designates their primary candidate for a vacancy before an interview even takes place. If you qualify for hiring preferences such as disability or veteran status, make sure to mention this on your federal resume. If you don’t include something on your resume, you may never get the chance to mention it!”

When you’re applying for a job with the federal government, it’s important to make sure that your resume meets all the requirements. If you don’t, your resume may not be considered.

The Format

A federal resume is a resume used when applying for a job with the federal government. Federal resumes are usually longer than standard resumes, often extending to two or more pages.

A federal resume includes a Work Experience area that will have a functional area. Each “Functional Area” will typically list your job title, employer, and dates of employment. Below each “Functional Area” will be a list of your “Key Achievements.” Your “Key Achievements” should be specific and quantifiable, and they should demonstrate how you have added value to your previous employers.

In addition to your work experience, a federal resume will also include a “Professional Summary” and a “Skills” section. The “Professional Summary” is similar to a standard resume’s “Objective” or “Career Summary” section, and it should briefly describe your professional goals and qualifications. The “Skills Summary” section should list any skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for.

What To Include

A federal resume is a resume created for a specific purpose and goal: to apply for a federal job. A federal resume is very different from a standard resume in both content and format.

The most obvious difference is the length of a federal resume. A federal resume must be clear, concise, and complete, and no longer than five to ten pages. Federal resumes also require you to include specific information that a standard resume does not.

On the top section of the resume include your veterans status, vacancy number, job title that you are applying for, pay grade series, and citizenship status.  

You must include your complete employment history, even if it is not relevant to the position you are applying for. You must also list your complete educational history, including any training or certifications you have received.

In addition, you must include the specific duties of each position you have held, as well as the hours worked per week and the supervisor’s contact information.

If you have any volunteer positions, include these on the federal resume. List these with the organization name, city and state, position held, and start and end dates. 

Include at least three professional references who can speak to your qualifications for the position. These should be listed at the end of the resume including name, position title held, email address, and phone number. It is important to ask the contact first if they can be used as a reference and where you are adding their contact information in the event they receive a phone call. 

The format of a federal resume is also different from a standard resume. Your federal resume should be formatted in a way that is easy to read and understand.

The most important thing to remember when creating a federal resume is to be clear, concise, and complete. Include all the information that is required, and format your resume in a way that is easy to read and understand.

Writing A Federal Resume

When applying for a federal job, it is important to tailor your resume to the job announcement. This means using the same language and keywords that are used in the announcement. 

From a guide by the U.S. Department of Labor for Tips for Writing a Federal Resume: 

“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.”

While a federal resume can be more than 2 pages long, it is important to use simple, straightforward language. This will help the hiring manager understand your experience and qualifications.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing your federal resume:

– Use simple, straightforward language

– Tailor your resume to the job announcement

– Use keywords from the job announcement

– Focus on your accomplishments, not just your duties

– Use action verbs

– Quantify your accomplishments

– Resume can be more than 2 pages long

– Conduct a spellcheck and grammar check

A federal resume is a document used to apply for positions in the United States federal government. It is different from a standard resume in both format and content. Federal resumes must include more detailed information about your work history and accomplishments, and they are typically longer than standard resumes.

When writing a federal resume, it is important to use keywords that will be found in the job announcement, and to tailor your resume to each specific job you are applying for. By following these tips, you can be sure that your federal resume will be both informative and well-received.

If you would like help in creating your new resume, check out our Federal Resume Writing or contact us for a customized approach to your needs.