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Federal resumes are very different from civilian resumes, and if you’re a veteran transitioning into a federal career, understanding these differences is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to craft a federal resume that will grab the attention of hiring managers and pass through automated systems like applicant tracking systems (ATS).

1. Federal Resumes Are Longer and More Detailed

Unlike civilian resumes, which are typically 1-2 pages, federal resumes can be 4-5 pages or more. This is because federal employers expect a detailed account of your job history, duties, and accomplishments.

Include Job Descriptions and Accomplishments: For each job, provide a thorough description of your duties, responsibilities, and notable achievements. Use action-oriented language and focus on accomplishments that had a tangible impact.

Use Measurable Metrics: Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with metrics such as percentages, dollar amounts, or time saved. For example, instead of saying “Managed a project,” write “Led a team of 10, delivering the project 20% under budget.”

Fast Federal Resumes specializes in crafting federal resumes that go beyond surface-level job duties. Reach out for a complimentary critique, and we’ll help you bring out your measurable achievements.

2. Include All Relevant Work Experience

Federal resumes are comprehensive. They require detailed work experience, including any jobs that may seem unrelated but still demonstrate transferable skills.

Transferable Skills: Even if a past job wasn’t directly related to the federal position you’re applying for, focus on transferable skills like leadership, project management, or technical expertise.

Dates and Employment History: Ensure that each job entry includes your title, employer name, dates of employment, hours worked per week, and supervisor contact information.

Fast Federal Resumes can help organize and present your entire work history in a way that shows you’re the best fit for the position.

3. Focus on Keywords from the Job Posting

Federal job announcements often contain specific keywords that agencies are looking for. These keywords are vital because many agencies use ATS to scan resumes for relevant terms.

Tailor Your Resume for Each Job: Every time you apply for a new position, tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description. Look for phrases that appear multiple times in the announcement.

Action Verbs Matter: Use strong action verbs to highlight your experience and skills.

Words like “led,” “implemented,” “coordinated,” and “executed” should be staples in your resume vocabulary.

Words like “led,” “implemented,” “coordinated,” and “executed” should be staples in your resume vocabulary.

4. Highlight Your Veteran Status and Preferences

As a veteran, you may qualify for hiring preferences under the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA) or Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA). It’s important to make sure your resume clearly communicates your veteran status.

Claiming Your Preference: Submit your DD-214 and any other necessary documents to ensure your veteran preference is considered. Clearly mention your veteran status in the resume itself.

Additional Considerations: If you have a disability rating from the VA, you may also qualify for additional preferences that can give you a hiring advantage.

If you have a disability rating from the VA, you may also qualify for additional preferences that can give you a hiring advantage.

5. Additional Sections to Include

Your federal resume should also include these additional sections:

Education: Include your degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework. Be sure to attach transcripts when required.

Training: Mention any relevant training programs or workshops you’ve attended.

Awards and Honors: Highlight any awards or recognitions received throughout your career.

Final Thought:
Crafting a federal resume takes time and attention to detail, but it’s an investment in your future. By following these steps and ensuring your resume is comprehensive, action-oriented, and keyword-rich, you’ll significantly increase your chances of landing your desired federal job. And if you need help, Fast Federal Resumes is always here to assist with a complimentary resume critique and personalized guidance.

Expanded Article 4: Learn How to Use Your Preferences

Learn How to Use Your Preferences in the Federal Hiring Process

As a veteran, you have powerful hiring preferences that can give you a significant edge when applying for federal jobs. Understanding how to use these preferences properly can make all the difference in landing your dream job. Below is an in-depth guide on how to claim, leverage, and maximize your veteran hiring preferences.

1. Understanding Your Hiring Preferences

Veterans’ preference is designed to give those who served in the military a better chance at securing federal employment. The most commonly used preferences are:

Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA): Allows veterans to apply for positions that are otherwise open only to current federal employees. You can compete for these internal job openings, expanding your opportunities significantly.

Veterans’ Recruitment Appointment (VRA): This hiring authority enables federal agencies to appoint eligible veterans to positions without competition. This means you can be hired without needing to compete against other candidates in the traditional application process.

2. Claiming Your Preference Correctly

When applying for federal jobs, it’s critical to follow the right steps for claiming your veteran preference. Here’s how:

Submit a DD-214: Your DD-214 is your proof of military service and is required for all veteran preference claims. Be sure to attach it to your application when prompted.

VA Disability Rating: If you have a service-connected disability, include your VA disability letter, which can increase your level of preference in the hiring process.

Documents in USAJOBS: Upload all necessary documents to your USAJOBS profile. This ensures that your preference is recognized for every job you apply for.

Fast Federal Resumes can help review your application and make sure all your veteran preference documentation is in place.

3. Leveraging Veterans’ Preference in Competitive Service

In most competitive service positions, veterans’ preference can give you a significant advantage over other applicants. Here’s how it works:

5-Point Preference: If you served during specific periods or in a designated campaign, you may qualify for a 5-point preference. This means that you receive five additional points in the competitive examination process.

10-Point Preference: Veterans with a service-connected disability or those receiving VA benefits for a disability are eligible for a 10-point preference, which significantly boosts your standing in the selection process.

4. Navigating the Hiring Process

Even with veterans’ preference, you still need to navigate the federal hiring process effectively. Be sure to:

Tailor Your Resume: Ensure that your resume aligns with the job announcement. Highlight the skills and experience that make you a perfect fit for the role.

Answer the Questionnaire: Most federal applications include a questionnaire. Your answers need to be consistent with the claims made in your resume, especially regarding experience and qualifications.

Fast Federal Resumes can guide you through the intricacies of tailoring your application and ensuring you maximize your hiring potential.

5. Understanding Special Hiring Authorities


In addition to veterans’ preference, there are special hiring authorities that can speed up your hiring process. These include:

30% or More Disabled Veteran: This special authority allows agencies to non-competitively hire veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or higher.

Schedule A Hiring Authority: This applies to veterans with severe disabilities, enabling agencies to hire without going through the competitive process.

6. Following Up After Submitting Your Application

Once you’ve submitted your application, don’t just wait in silence. Here’s what to do next:

Track Your Application: Use the USAJOBS dashboard to track the status of your application and ensure it progresses through the system.

Contact the HR Department: If your application status seems stuck, don’t hesitate to contact the HR representative listed on the job announcement. A polite follow-up can make a difference in moving your application forward.

Final Thought:
Using your veteran hiring preferences can give you a significant advantage, but you need to ensure that all documentation is in order and that you navigate the federal hiring process effectively. Fast Federal Resumes can help you with everything from crafting a competitive resume to making sure your veteran preference is properly claimed. Reach out to us for a complimentary critique and take the first step toward landing your ideal federal job.