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How resumes are evaluated in the private sector: Advice for former federal employees

The Partnership for Public Service’s FedSupport Webinars featured a session on how resumes are evaluated in the private sector. 

Partnership Vice President of Government Affairs Jenny Mattingley led the discussion with Laszlo Bock, former human resources lead at Google, and Patty McCord, former human resources lead at Netflix. 

They shared resume, career and interview advice for former and current federal employees affected by the recent civil service disruptions, addressing the following questions: 

How should former federal employees determine if a role in the private sector fits their priorities? 

During the session, panelists emphasized the need to reevaluate career goals when transitioning to the private sector.  

Because the private sector is diverse, you can find jobs with missions that matter to you. The work you do should be meaningful, but it does not have to be your identity. 

Find a job that you are good at and that other people value. You can always keep looking for a new opportunity if you find that the job you end up in ultimately is not the right fit.  

How can folks streamline their federal resumes to meet private sector roles? 

Federal resumes tend to be lengthy because they are written to meet the criteria of USAJOBS.  

Private sector resumes should be results-oriented and tailored to the specific job for which you are applying. Resumes should be no more than two pages. 

• Start with a source document that contains every role and responsibility you have had professionally. Use this as a baseline to craft your resume. 
• Then, find a resume format you prefer, add content from the source document and customize your resume for each job application.  
• Mirror your resume to the job description using the same keywords. 
• Focus on problems you helped solve. 

What are some tips for writing a private sector resume? 

Your resume should speak directly to an employer’s needs using clear, actionable language and metrics. 

• Use the formula: “Accomplished X, as measured by Y, by doing Z.” Avoid general phrases like “team player” or “strong communication skills.” Show your impact. 
• Start bullet points with an action verb. 
• Track metrics regularly to pull results when updating your resume. 

What preparation should federal employees do to be ready for a private sector interview? 

For those who left federal service involuntarily, be truthful. Focus on what you learned during your service, what you are seeking and how the experience clarified your priorities. 

Private sector interviews tend to focus on storytelling, cultural fit and solving problems. 

• Talk about your accomplishments using the STAR method (situation, task, action, result). 
• Frame your federal experience in a way that aligns with the company’s goals. 
• Research the company’s staff culture. Explain what you are looking for and how the opportunity aligns with your personal and professional values. 

What advice would you give to former federal employees who have been removed from service for ‘performance’ reasons?  

Remember that your career is not over. Many private sector employers are interested in your growth and potential, especially if you can articulate what you have learned from the experience.  

• Briefly acknowledge what happened and then pivot the conversation to highlight how it shaped your professional journey.  
• Talk about the self-awareness, resilience or clarity it gave you. Perhaps share the type of work that motivates you.  
• Demonstrate that you have taken accountability.  

How might compensation packages differ between the federal government and the private sector? 

Federal compensation is typically structured and transparent. Private sector compensation is more variable and negotiable. 

A base salary may depend on the role and location. 

• Private sector compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, 401(k) matching, equity or profit-sharing. 
• Evaluate the entire offer, not just salary and consider healthcare, schedule flexibility, paid time off, professional development or telework options. 

Stay informed   

Explore our FedSupport hub for timely updates about the latest civil service proposals affecting federal employees and resources to navigate this time of uncertainty. 

Join our webinar series for guidance on navigating change in the federal government and enroll in our free online Career Pivot Bootcamp for support in transitioning to private sector employment. 

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