Recent layoffs initiated by DOGE have significantly impacted the federal workforce, pushing thousands of employees into the job market. For those with government experience, it’s essential to concentrate on skills that appeal to private sector companies.
Experts suggest being prepared to articulate your professional successes, as highlighted by a career consultant in an interview with Business Insider.
For federal employees looking to transition to private industry, a critical skill to develop is the ability to translate their experience into terms that resonate with corporate hiring managers. The complex and often convoluted nature of government work can make it challenging for private sector professionals to fully understand the relevant skills and experiences.
Carrie Soave, a career consultant from Detroit who once worked in federal service, pointed out the difficulties in conveying the value of government experience, especially when it’s laden with jargon and obscure job titles. She recommends that job seekers focus on articulating their success stories clearly.
With the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, implementing major cuts to the federal workforce, it’s increasingly important for individuals to showcase their achievements effectively.
Leigh Henderson, a seasoned HR expert, emphasized the necessity for former federal workers to frame their experiences in ways that align with private sector expectations. “Companies are on the lookout for problem solvers, critical thinkers, and leaders capable of navigating complicated situations,” she stated. Fortunately, government employees often possess these qualities.
To capture hiring managers’ attention, it’s crucial to narrate experiences that highlight these strengths. A common pitfall is that federal resumes often exceed the two-page norm typical in the private sector, making conciseness imperative.
Amanda Augustine, a career coach at Careerminds, suggested that candidates should view their resumes and LinkedIn profiles as marketing tools, clearly articulating the skills they utilized and the positive impacts they achieved.
The layoffs driven by DOGE have surged to the highest levels since the pandemic, with more cuts anticipated. While DOGE has framed these reductions as targeting “low performers,” some federal employees reject this characterization. Nonetheless, any negative perceptions could hinder former government employees’ job prospects.
Ken Crowell, founder of EmployTest, acknowledged the challenges posed by stereotypes about bureaucracy and inefficiency, but he insisted that the valuable experience and leadership skills of many ex-government workers should not be underestimated.
As for where these individuals might find opportunities, Farah Sharghi, a recruiter turned career coach, noted that the transition often relies on the specific skills of the worker. For instance, someone from a regulatory body may find opportunities at companies they previously oversaw.
Henderson identified industries such as healthcare, defense, and logistics, where former federal workers could thrive due to the intricate operations and regulatory oversight involved. Consulting firms particularly value the ability to manage bureaucracy and compliance, making government employees attractive candidates.
However, workers in very specialized roles might need to enhance their skills to make them applicable in a corporate environment. Henderson indicated that policy analysts, compliance officers, and administrative specialists could find it challenging to translate their expertise into private sector roles.
Lastly, adjusting to different workplace expectations in the private sector is essential, and soft skills like adaptability, strategic thinking, and stakeholder management will be vital in facilitating a smooth transition.
