Waiting for a Federal Job
After submitting a Federal application, you might have to wait longer for a response than you would when applying for a private sector job. It could take many months. In part, that’s because of the thorough applicant ranking process required by law.
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| Waiting for a FederalJob
Agencies have been working hard to reduce the time that applicants have to wait. In fact, some agencies, such as the U.S. Geological Survey and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, have cut the average time for an initial screening to a few weeks after the closing date.
What to do while you wait
If an agency uses an automated hiring system, you can check the status of your application by logging on to its employment website. Otherwise, call the contact person. Many human resources specialists suggest waiting at least 3 weeks after the closing date to give agencies time to sort applications.
Checking your application’s progress is important, because sometimes positions are cancelled and re-opened later.
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Interviewing
Interviewing is the most stressful part of the job search for many people. But it doesn't have to be. Interviews are an opportunity to show you are an enthusiastic worker who would do a job well.
Like most managers, Federal managers usually interview applicants before deciding whom to hire. There are no special rules for Federal interviews. You can prepare for them as you would any others. Learn more about the job by visiting the agency website, skimming its publications and mission statements, and reviewing its organizational chart. You also should review the job announcement and your application.
On the day of the interview, give yourself enough time to find the correct office and navigate security procedures. You probably need to bring photo identification, as well as any materials that the hiring manager requests.
You might meet with the hiring manager alone or with a panel of managers and coworkers. The standard advice about interviews applies, including listening well, being ready with specific examples of your skills, and sending thank you notes.
Negotiating salary and accepting the job
When you are selected for a job in the Federal Government, a human resources specialist will telephone you with an offer. This is a good time to ask questions about pay and benefits. Negotiating for pay is not as common in Federal work as it is in the private sector because pay ranges are set by law. But agencies do have some flexibility. They can start experienced workers at the high end of the pay range, based on qualifications, market conditions, the applicant’s past salary, and agency regulations. Some agencies can also offer signing bonuses, student loan repayment, and relocation assistance.
In addition to answering questions about pay and benefits, the human resources specialist will explain the process of getting a security clearance or other background check, if such checks are required for the job.
If you need time to decide whether to accept the job, ask for it. If you do accept, the specialist will give you a start date and tell the hiring manager—who will probably be your new boss.
On your first day, you will sign or say an oath of office and become a public servant. Then, you can stop the job hunt and start your Federal career!
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