Who in their right mind would want to consider an internship or career in the Federal Government after the recent shutdown in October? 

Me!

For years I’ve been an advocate of public service and working for our government. Though the shutdown was sobering, it showed us how integral our public services are to our daily lives  — recreation, defense, transportation, oversight, education and more. No matter your interest, you can bet that there is a government component. Whether you view this as good or bad, the fact is that a public service career can be both a practical and philosophical positive path forward. 

The following are five tips for finding an opportunity to explore or enter the federal workforce. 

• START NOW: Many federal agencies have organized programs that require application between now and February. Don’t wait! The next step is fun.

• Go to “MY NEXT MOVE” This website, sponsored by the Department of Labor, is an excellent place to start. Take as assessment, search careers that fit your interests and connect into some more focused groups they offer.
• GET THE LAY OF THE LAND: 

This part of the larger federal government system caters to students and recent grads. (Even has a link to jobs by college major!) Learn about opportunities specifically geared for emerging adults and target groups. See if you qualify.

• SEARCH OPPORTUNITIES: Use key words and save your search criteria. Choose agencies you like or if you don’t know what they would be, choose by subject area. If you don’t find a listing but like the organization, go directly to their website and identify someone in department that sounds interesting. Call! You never know.
• BE PREPARED AND RESPOND QUICKLY: Have an email drafted with what you are looking for (be detailed and include when you want to start.) Have a resume and cover letter ready to go in case you find someone who says, “Yes send me a resume and what you are looking!”  Actions like immediate response gets noticed.

   – The Intern Lady 

Looking for more career tips? Check out MorganJaffe.com.  

More From The Intern Lady:
Important Factors When Choosing an Internship 
How to Leverage Your Internship