The Thank You Note

The thank you note is an overlooked strategy. It is a sign of common courtesy that show you are detailed oriented and real want he position. Going the second mile and displaying a real desire for a position can empress a potential employer. Odds are most people don’t send a thank you note. The very fact that you send one after an interview puts you in a more elite group. Nothing like a stamped and mail note to set you a part. An email will not have the same impact.

The note does not have to be elaborate or long. Keep it simple and handwritten.

Example
******************************************************
Dear Ms. Smith,

Thanks for the time you took to interview me. I am very interested in the position. (Add a line mentioning something that you connected on during the interview) Look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

John Q. Jobseeker
*****************************************************
The key is to send it the day of the interview. Hopefully they will receive it while the decision making process is still ongoing. Make sure you get the name of the person you interviewed with. It is hard to send a letter if you don’t have that.

A thank you note might just be the edge you need to get the job. Remember keep it simple; an inexpensive thank you will do just fine.

Federal Employment

There are many opportunities for employment with the federal government. To obtain a position will take determination and patience. The process can be complex and hard to master. The rewards are great and federal employment is a solid career. The process is not to be undertaken in a hurry. Build your federal resume ahead of time.

To apply for jobs with the federal government you will need a detailed resume. The submission should have keywords. Include complete details of your skills, education, and work history. Remember some of these jobs require a security clearance and there will be extensive background checks.

You may be fortunate enough to attain a list of job specific keywords. You may also glean them from the job descriptions. This is a key factor to successfully applying for a federal job. This will give your resume an edge in the process. Details and keywords are essential and will help you be successful in obtaining a position.

Federal Employment:
USAJOBS - http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/
Look here for tips - http://www.usajobs.gov/infocenter/

Army and Department of Defense Positions
Civilian Personnel On-Line - http://acpol.army.mil/

You can also find jobs on the individual department websites.