I am hoping to apply for a higher paying position within my work unit in a state health department.

I am hoping to apply for a higher paying position within my work unit in a state health department. The position calls for very specific qualifications that my resume and application must clearly demonstrate in order to even qualify for an interview. My question for this group: who can I get to review my resume to ensure I am demonstrating those skills/qualifications? I do not have any current or former state HR professionals in my network, so that is not a possibility. The government hiring process is so specific that I would really like someone familiar with it to look at my resume, but I have no idea how to go about that. Thanks in advance for any ideas!

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10 Comments

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  1. Anonymous

    I would contact someone on LinkedIn who works in a state or federal government job. I know that for every requirement for a federal job, you must have direct experience in the "required" category of the JD, but some are written in such a way that only an insider can tell if you've done it right. Some state jobs are the same way. It isn't hard to find insiders by searching for people who do or have worked there.

  2. Anonymous

    Exactly! That is why I am trying to find someone on the “inside” to help. I have cracked the code on how to screen in for jobs at one federal agency but have still not screened in at another agency for roles I am absolutely qualified for.

  3. Jessica Ferland

    Is there anyone in your unit who knows what the position entails, knows you, and could take a look? Does your union offer this type of service? I work for my state's public health department. Not sure it would be helpful, but happy to look.

  4. Anonymous

    This is a great idea! I will ask my former supervisor. He knows the entire program very well and is not involved in hiring for this role, so no conflict of interest. Thanks!!

  5. Anonymous

    I charge $250 for a resume review.

  6. Anonymous

    This is OP. Thanks for safeguarding! I don’t have $250 to spend regardless!

  7. Anonymous

    $250 is only for a review. If you needed a resume update, it would cost you $1,000. I am sharing this not to brag but rather think through what you are asking. FREE work. Whoever will do that for free, definitely make sure they have government experience. Not some random person who wants to play Career Coach. Best of luck.

  8. Anonymous

    Virginia Department of Health.

  9. Anonymous

    Why not find a person who has done the process before and gotten that new role. They can share their past experiences with you. It is likely that this might net you the best outcome here.

  10. Anonymous

    You could start by reaching out to professional associations or groups that specialize in public sector jobs or government hiring, such as the National Association of State Personnel Executives (NASPE) or local state employee unions, as they often have resources or members who are familiar with government hiring processes. Another option is to look for career coaches or resume review services that specialize in government or public sector roles. You can also try LinkedIn groups or forums for public sector professionals, where you might find someone with relevant experience to review your resume.

    Lastly, some universities or local job centers may offer career services that cater to government positions and may have experts available to help. Let us know what happens. Rooting for you!!!

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