Four Ways to Jump Start Your Government Job Search

From GovCentral

Losing your job is an overwhelming feeling, no
matter when it happens. GovCentral has scoured the web to help connect
you with benefits you have already earned. Here are four simple steps
to get you through the first days and jumpstart your government job
search.

(Parts of this article sourced from CareerOneStop
is a U.S. Department of Labor-sponsored Web site that offers career
resources and workforce information to job seekers, students,
businesses, and workforce professionals to foster talent development in
a global economy.)

1. Get Immediate Help

In most jobs, both you and your employer put a small amount of every
paycheck in to an unemployment insurance fund. Find out how to apply
for and receive unemployment benefits, options for extending your
healthcare coverage, and tips to deal with the worry that comes with
losing your job.

Unemployment Benefits

Find out what types of benefits you may qualify for.

Healthcare Coverage

Find out your options for protecting or extending your healthcare
coverage after a layoff. If you are eligible, up to 65 percent of COBRA costs will be paid for up to nine months with money from the Stimulus Bills President Obama signed.

Dealing with Job Loss
Make sure you deal with the stress of job loss before turning to your new job search

2. Upgrade your Skills

Make your job finding a job. A part of this is understanding what
career you can Sometimes an unexpected career event-such as a
layoff-can be an excellent time to brush up on skills. You have several
options to upgrade your skills.

GovCentral School Finder
GovCentral's School Finder has free information from reputable schools
with flexible degree programs that fit your schedule. Find scholarships
and free money for tuition. Plus, get career tips, insights and advice
to make sure you're successful.

Take a Class

Taking just one or two classes can help reignite your career-and it can also help you stand out when applying for new jobs.

Short-term Training

Short-term training can include federally funded programs, certificate
programs, paths toward certification and other training that generally
lasts fewer than two years.

Begin or Finish a Degree

Many people find that a layoff or tight labor market is an excellent
time ot head back to school to begin or finish a four-year degree.

3. Find a Job

GovCentral is a great place to start your search for a career in
public service and government. Here are a few other resources to help
you out.

GovCentral Job Search
GovCentral has access to thousands of government job listing from across the country. Job listings are courtesy of USAjobs.gov

Job Hunter's Bible
The Job Hunter's Bible is the official website for "What Color is Your
Parachute", an exhaustive and often times hilarious book dedicated to
helping you find your true passion for work. Written by Dick Bolles and
published since 1972, the book has garnered numerous accolades and is a
favorite book for GovCentral's editorial staff.

Job Hunting after Job Loss

Follow these tips to make your job search as successful as possible.

Networking During a Recession

Yes, you can network during a recession. Follow these tips to make sure your networking skills are up to the challenge

Guide for Federal Job Seekers with Disabilities
An exhaustive look from the Office of Personnel Management. This guide
gives great tips about how to navigate the job search if you are an
individual with disability.

4. Find your Passion. Think about a Career Change.

GovCentral Career Guides
GovCentral has compiled various career guides to give you the skills
and training you need to find your passion and ace your upcoming
interview.

Federal Resume Writing Checklist
Jason Kay, from KSADoctor.com explains how resumes for government jobs are unique compared to positions in the private sector.

What are Your Skills?

When considering a career change, the first step is to identify your skills.

Switching Occupation or Industry

Follow these tips to find a new occupation or industry.

Make Yourself Marketable

Take control of your job search by learning about labor market trends and talking about what you have to offer.

Find a Career One-Stop Center
A One-Stop 
Center is a place where you can all the help you need in
your search for reemployment. There are literally thousands across the
country, and most likely one right down the street in your city or
town. Find a One-Stop Center near you.