Since I retired in 2014 I have missed the satisfaction that service to country provides. So I recently completed my graduate degree in public administration, and have been looking for a job in public service since August. I have been repeatedly rejected by all federal, state, and locals positions that I have applied for. Many of those positions that require just a bachelor's degree and no experience. I am wondering if anyone could suggest how I can present myself as one beginning a new career and not simply a potential flight risk due to overqualification.
Answers
One trick you can try doing is copying and pasting the job description you are applying for onto a second page of your resume. The computer will scan you as a perfect match, and when the HR people print it out, they will assume you pasted it there to show which job you are applying for. This doesn't work on all ATS's.
Also, most government jobs accept "similar experience" and you may be pricing yourself out of positions by looking for entry level.
If you have landed any interviews, circle back to the interviewer and ask them for candid feedback on why you didn't make it to the next round so you can be a better candidate for future positions. That input can be valuable to determine what happened and guide you on where to focus on shoring up.
As you apply to various positions, tailor your resume to hone in on the key words used in the job description. Be sure to think about how to answer questions during the interview that showcase your skills and abilities in light of the job description. Make yourself relevant in terms that are specific to what they are looking for.
Look to join affiliations like the American Society for Public Administration: http://aspanet.org/
They offer online methods of connecting with others who you can build a network with, as well as many other resources for students and newcomers to the field. Become an active member - put it on your resume - and use their networking resources. Often times you will discover opportunities that are not posted on jobs boards through the relationships you build.
Best of luck!
Have you spoken to people in your local government office to get an idea of what is missing?
Also network on Linkedin with the people on this site and in public office. Since this is an election year there are many candidates who need help with the campaign. You can meet many influential people.
Have you spoken to people in your local government office to get an idea of what is missing?
Also network on Linkedin with the people on this site and in public office. Since this is an election year there are many candidates who need help with the campaign. You can meet many influential people.
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