I am starting to think something is wrong with me.
I have been in local government for 8 years, and I am trying to pivot out. I have not had any luck with job applications (no interviews). I have redone my resume a number of times to highlight my skills beyond my actual job duties, and nothing.
Is prior experience in a government setting deemed bad by the private sector? My biggest fear is that I will age out (become subject to ageism) quickly and will never be able to make a move.
Trie Angeleva
Dream-Job Career Coach
310
11/02/21 at 9:38PM UTC
Hi there! I too worked in local government for 9 years and found it benefitted what I did next, which was teach at a university then start my own career coaching practice. As several others here have said, there's not enough info to say if it's your resume and how you're positioning yourself. It would be interesting to know hat type of government work you've been doing and what you'd like to do next so you're making the most of your experience and how it translates to what you want to do. I'd be happy to email with you if you'd find it helpful since I've been there. Message me if you'd like to do that.
Rhonda RondeauProduct Manager in Pasadena,CA
385
10/21/21 at 4:28PM UTC
I am in the same place as I am trying to get out of the legal space and most people that call me usually want legal experience but I really feel like I can do more than that if given the opportunity
AshleyConnellCEO & Gender equity in the workforce advocate
143
10/14/21 at 9:55PM UTC
Hi there - We're hosting a free online event featuring a female exec who pivoted in her career. She's sharing her story and opening up for questions. You can register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sogal-houston-x-prowess-project-coffee-and-connect-tickets-185162384677?aff=OComm
Anonymous
10/14/21 at 3:48PM UTC
You need to find a private sector company that needs your particular government experience that will benefit your employer.
I purchase things and manage construction contracts for a state agency. That translates into private sector where the company needs my skill set in their office to give them a a better chance of winning bids. I know the rules of the state, how to word things and I have certifications that state agencies look for in contractors they hire. I’m someone from their office who knows the ins and outs of state rules and how to get things done “the state way”.
8 years with government isn’t really that long, unless it is your first job. So pick and choose what will benefit you on your resume. More than one resume isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
Erin Thomas, Career + Leadership Coach Get your career into focus!
579
10/14/21 at 2:17PM UTC
It’s not only about highlighting your skills, but “translating” them to exactly what they are looking for. You have to tell the story that they want to hear - and ideally this story is authentic Lt yours as well. (If not you’ll prob dislike the job.)
Here’s more info on resumes:
https://www.careerandleadershipcoaching.com/post/four-things-you-need-to-change-in-your-resume
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist
21.99k
10/14/21 at 2:54AM UTC
What do you do and what do you want to do?
What have you done so far in your job search? Where is your resume posted? How often are you updating those profiles? Is your LinkedIn up to snuff?
Anonymous
10/14/21 at 6:30PM UTC
I am in the risk management arena. I have a BA, MBA and currently working on a M.S. in ERM. I have interest in supply chain, product development and compliance/business continuity. I also dabble in data analytics (data visualization).
Anonymous
10/14/21 at 6:24PM UTC
I have done mock interviews with employers in a different state and industry (they provided great feedback and I changed some things). I also submitted my resume to talent networks associated with the companies of my interest. I hired an HR professional to craft my resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn page. Headshot is professional and up to date. My resume is posted on a few sites: Handshake, the Mom Project, WayUp..
I and not sure what I am doing wrong.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist
21.99k
10/14/21 at 8:10PM UTC
Handshake is typically for college students. Never heard of the other two.
Since it sounds like you are in an active job search - you want to cast a wide net. I would consider posting on places like Monster, Careerbuilder, Zip Recruiter, Indeed and Glassdoor.
You will probably get some junk emails or calls but you need to get airtime. Those are easily ignored or deleted. I use calls from those people with positions I'm not interested in as practice. It's especially helpful if you have issues asking about/negotiating compensation.
There are recruiters spending all day, every day looking for candidates - you have to put yourself where you can be found. Otherwise, you're doing all the work. I would also look into the websites for any professional organizations associated with what you're interested in doing or what you're doing now. You should be able to search for jobs on there and you may be able to post your resume.
Are you working the LinkedIn Jobs section? Do you have alerts set up to send you the newest jobs?
When you set up your profile on Monster etc, make sure you update those every week or two.
Approximately how many jobs a week are you applying to? What do you do after you apply?
If you're not getting any interviews at all, I'm thinking it might be your resume. If you'd like me to take a look at it, send me a private message.
If you're looking to get out of government, I suggest you do it asap - I agree that you're getting close to the point of no return. You might consider doing the transition in steps - transitioning out of government in what you're currently doing and then once out of government making the next move. I would think that would be easier - it's going to be an easier sell to potential employers.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Anonymous
10/13/21 at 10:15PM UTC
I worked in local/state government (grant accounting) for 6 years, then relocated closer to my family with the intention of going back to the private sector. I found it difficult for recruiters to understand my work and how it would fit in the private sector, so I know what your frustration may be like. No big advice other than empathy since I took the first temp-to-hire position I got and have been with my company for four years.
Anonymous
10/13/21 at 9:21PM UTC
Perhaps a non-profit would welcome your expertise? Have you targeted those?
Anonymous
10/14/21 at 6:27PM UTC
I am not familiar with the nonprofit world, but I am open to it. I networked with a colleague who is well connected in that arena, and he has agreed to send leads my way.
Anonymous
10/13/21 at 7:36PM UTC
No, I don’t think working in a government setting should hinder your ability to get a private sector job. It might help to know a little more about the roles you’ve held and the roles you are seeking.
