Federal Resume Guide
Objective Statement (Optional) – Should include what you are seeking
(e.g., “To find employment in the archival field”), what you can bring to the
position (for example use phrases such as “where my background in
library and information science will”) and end with how you can help the
agency accomplish its mission (e.g., “assist the agency in maintaining
regulatory compliance”).
Education – Schools attended, date degree(s) were conferred and
GPAs. If a degree was not awarded, provide the number of credits
received.
Work Experience – Job title, dates of employment, salary, hours worked
per week, employers name and address, supervisor’s name, contact
phone number and whether or not s/he may be contacted.
Other Qualifications – Job-related training courses, skills, certificates,
honors, awards, professional certifications, special accomplishments, and
memberships in professional or honor societies and organizations.
You are encouraged to use the USAJobs Resume Builder tool when
applying to a Federal vacancy, however, when it comes to resume styles,
one size does not fit all. Resumes are as diversified as each applicants work history and
experience and there are several options to consider:
Chronological – this type of resume lists your work experience, education, volunteer
and community service activity, and awards and recognitions in reverse chronological
order, with your most recent job being placed first and your oldest job placed last.
Functional (also known as a Competency Based resume) - this format takes the focus
off your job titles and puts it on your skills, abilities, accomplishments, job traits and
personal characteristics (competencies) that employers expect future employees to
match.
Combination – the combination resume includes elements of both the chronological
and functional styles of resumes by identifying your relevant skills and accomplishments
and then describes your employment and education in chronological order.
Targeted – the targeted resume may be any of the three styles listed above with one
exception; the resume is tailored for a specific company or position. This type of resume
is typically used when you know positions exist at a particular company but are not
applying to an advertised vacancy.
USAJobs – the USAJobs resume is automatically formatted for you using the
information you provide in the USAJobs Resume Builder.
IS THERE A PREFERRED STYLE OF RESUME I SHOULD USE
WHEN APPLYING FOR A FEDERAL POSITION?
You are
unique – your
experience and
the lessons
you’ve learned
are yours and
yours alone.
Write your
resume from
your
perspective. Use
words that
describe what
makes you a
valuable asset.