Step Two: Networking Success (10 Steps to a Federal Job)
Effective networking can arguably be the best tool in a job seeker’s arsenal. The potential reward from networking can launch a brand new phase in your life – professionally and personally. How do we network with the right people and measure our success? In my search to find and gain employment in the federal government, I have learned that a focused and targeted approach to networking is paramount. This blog will continue a review of Kathryn Troutman’s book, 10 Steps to a Federal Job, and in particular, the second step about networking.
Step 2: Success in Networking
Most people are familiar with the old cliché “it’s not what you know but who you know”. In many cases, this holds true. In the federal government; however, the opposite is true. Networking is still very important, but it alone may not have the same impact as if you were applying to a position in the private sector. The content of your resumé and application will determine if you make it to an interview, and not because the hiring manager is a close friend of yours. When conducting a federal job search, you must identify the agencies whose missions align with your personal mission. For example, are you a former police officer who would gain personal satisfaction by helping our country fight terrorism? Then maybe a job as a criminal investigator for the Department of Homeland Security would best align with your mission. Once you have established the agencies that provide the best match, you can then begin your marketing campaign. This is where networking comes in.
Take a very targeted approach to networking. What does Troutman mean by this? She recommends researching agencies, including learning who works at them. Send out an introductory email asking for an informational interview with the hiring manager. Create this email in a similar style to a cover letter, outlining your interest in the position and including several bullet points of your strongest attributes. It is important to get to know the names of the hiring contacts and send periodic emails. The contact information (including phone numbers) is provided in the job announcements on USAJOBS.com. Include the title of the position and the announcement number for the jobs to which you are applying. You should update them on your status, inform them of your continued interest in the agency, and avail yourself to any other openings for which you may be a good fit. These contacts are crucial as they can literally pick your resumé from the pile and get it in the hands of the decision-maker. This approach requires you to be proactive, professional, polite, and above all, patient.
Government job fairs provide good networking opportunities. Personally, I attended one in 2009 and it was a very informative experience. There were many agencies and I was able to meet the hiring managers and employees alike. After the fair, one of the facilitators from the OPM gave a free presentation about how to correctly apply to federal positions (very helpful). I recommend doing extensive research on the agencies who will attend the fair, and thus distinguish yourself from the crowd when you network with them in person. Your first impression needs to be your best impression, and you must be ready to showcase your knowledge of the organizations and your interest in joining them.
My next post will continue with step three of Troutman’s method to landing a federal job: targeting your accomplishments.
Source: Troutman, K. Ten Steps to a Federal Job. Baltimore: The Resume Place, Inc. 2009.
