Getting a Federal Job from Being a Contractor

From the Washington Post, Sunday, February 28, 2010

Derrick T. Dortch, president of the Diversa Group, is a career
counselor who specializes in government job searches and military
transition. This is adapted from a chat at washingtonpost.com.

Arlington: I'm a contractor, and I've been told that my position is
being converted to a federal position. The people I work for like me
and want me to compete for the position, but where do I start? The
process overwhelms me.

Derrick Dortch: Because you know the people and are doing the work inside the agency as a contractor, you have the inside track.

First: Get them to provide you a vacancy announcement or a job
description. They may not have posted the job, but I am pretty sure
they have begun writing up the announcement or job description. This
will be your guide.

Second: Find out how they want you to apply. Do you have to submit a
résumé only, or do you have to submit a résumé and KSA or essay
question responses? Can you hand-deliver or e-mail your résumé, or will
they make you apply online through usajobs.gov, avuecentral.com or some
other system?

Third: Enlist the help of those who want you to
apply. Ask them for guidance on what should be in your résumé and other
self-marketing/application materials.

Fourth: Begin writing down the successes you've had while working
there. You will include them in your résumé and with any other
materials, if necessary.

Fifth: Redevelop and target your résumé. Let the bulk of your résumé
be focused on this position. Combine your success stories with various
duties and responsibilities you have in the job right now. You want
your materials to sell you. Do not take for granted that they like you;
show them that you are, indeed, the best candidate.

Sixth: As you redevelop your materials, have those who are assisting
you make sure the information is exactly what is being sought. You are
in a great position. Take advantage of it.