Please upgrade your web browser

These pages are built with modern web browsers in mind, and are not optimized for Internet Explorer 8 or below. Please try using another web browser, such as Internet Explorer 9, Internet Explorer 10, Internet Explorer 11, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Apple Safari.

How do I go from being stuck at entry level to moving up?

Veteran

Asia Ware-Hall Fayetteville, NC

I have been stuck between GS-4/5 since 2016. How do I get out of here?

1 October 2019 3 replies Career Advancement

Answers

Advisor

Susana Moraga Hayward, CA

Asia,
The great thing about the government is that they show the specific criteria for each position.
Given what you want to do next, you can clearly see what skills you have or need to develop to obtain that position.
Are you currently working with a mentor in your field?
They can be particularly helpful in guiding your success. Teamwork is one of the most important aspects of most positions and having a team to work with you on your career progress would be a great asset.
Check out the resources on this site regarding mentors and advisors.
And always double check your work, typos matter.
Good luck,
Susana

2 October 2019 Helpful answer

Advisor

Rex Conger Gilbert, SC

First I would need to understand what skills/experience you brought to your current position and what skills/experience you were able to utilize when you were in the military.

Then I would like to know what your career goals are. If you would share that information I would be glad to provide some suggestions.

From a basic perspective - to be promoted you really need to be seen as "the GO-TO Person" in your current work environment. Show enthusiasm, quality, pride and be the first to volunteer for new or additional responsibilities.

Being "that person" will give you the best opportunity for growth in your current work environment and will also provide you with the experience/skills to seek employment in a new work environment.

Best wishes and be the happiest person in your place of employment.

2 October 2019 Helpful answer

Veteran

Asia Ware-Hall Fayetteville, NC

Good morning Rex,

I am the only MSA in my clinic and I am always the go-to person for all healthcare administration tasks. Everything is always done with a smile. But, being that most tasks and projects are clinical in this organization, I cannot volunteer for all new or additional responsibilities. I can send over my resume it you'd like. It covers my entire career from Army as a 92Y/ Unit Supply Specialist and now as a Medical Support Assistant.

Asia

Your Answer

Please log in to answer this question.

Sign Up

You can join as either a Veteran or an Advisor.

An Advisor already has a career, with or without military experience, and is willing to engage with and help veterans.
Sign Up as an Advisor.

A Veteran has military experience and is seeking a new career, or assistance with life after service.
Sign Up as a Veteran.