Do I need a resume?

Yes and no. You should always maintain a current resume, but when you apply for jobs with Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS), you will submit your information through something called the USAJOBS Resume Builder. You'll have the chance to submit all the same information, but by using the Resume Builder all candidates have to use the same format and, therefore, have an equal opportunity to sell themselves.

If all resumes go into the same format, how will I stand out?

There is only a difference of format. The same rules apply to the content as they would with a traditional resume. To stand out choose the right words, be concise, quantify, and don't forget what we like to call “DUH” items.

Choose the right words

There are two big ideas when it comes to choosing the right language for your AFCS resume: use “action” words and use “key” words.

Action words describe results. Example: don't say “I was an electronics engineer” say “I designed specifications for electronics systems to be used in advanced weapons systems.”

“Key” words in your resume work just like online searches. Look at other listings for jobs like the one you're after. Chances are you'll find some pretty similar language in the descriptions of the job qualifications. Make sure your qualifications are presented in a similar way—HR Specialists don't have time to translate.

Be concise

Make your point and move on. Don't use unnecessary embellishments. Say what your responsibilities were, what you accomplished, and how you contributed to your employer's mission as succinctly as you can.

Quantify

It's not enough to say what you did. You also need to say how well you did it. Did you institute any time or cost savings, resolve major problems, increase production, help your work group meet goals, or streamline work processes? Then say so. And say by how much. How big was the budget you managed? How much time did you save? By what percentage did you increase production? Without quantifying, you're just making empty claims.

“Duh” items

These should go without saying, but perhaps we should say them to be safe.

• Use proper grammar.
• Spell cheque. Spell Czech. Spell check.
• Be honest.
• Be consistent.
• Check, check, check.

If you struggle with grammar, ask a friend to check it. Use spell check. Watch out for homonyms. Be honest. Be consistent. Understand KSAs. Make sure your answers to all questions match what's in your resume. Make sure all your dates, references, contact info...EVERYTHING...is accurate.

I'm a veteran. Should I do anything differently?

As a veteran, you are entitled to certain preferences in the evaluation process. Be sure to include the dates of your military service, both entry and discharge, as well as your category of discharge—honorable, honorable with conditions, and so on. Also, be as specific as you can as to your duties at each duty station. Do not consolidate tours. There's more important information available on the Veterans page under Hiring Opportunities.

I'm a current Federal employee. Do I still need to submit a resume?

Yes. All applicants for AFCS opportunities are required to submit a resume. Simply indicating your title, series, grade, or pay band does not mean that either an HR Specialist or a hiring manager will automatically know what your responsibilities are or have been. Pay particular attention to the job requirements and tailor the description of your experience to the needs of the job.

I just graduated. What should I include in my resume?

Include any positions of leadership you held in clubs, societies, fraternities, sororities. Mention any recognition and awards for scholastic or other accomplishments, and, of course, include any internships or co-op programs. Even your summer jobs can help, if you demonstrated responsibility or accountability, like dealing with the public in customer service.

What are “KSAs?”

KSAs are VERY important. KSAs are Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities that are required to fill the job opening. HR Specialists are interested in understanding an applicant’s knowledge of a subject area, skill in performing similar work, and ability to complete a task related to the job being filled. Each job opening will have a corresponding set of KSAs. Be consistent – because HR Specialists and hiring managers will assess your relevant education and work experiences required for the job.

What about the multiple-choice questions?

Being consistent is critical because an HR Specialist will use your resume to verify that your answers are not inflated or exaggerated.

Will I be considered for positions other than the one I apply for?

In some cases AFCS Recruitment or HR Specialists will do what we call “resume mining.” They will search through resumes saved on USAJOBS to find qualified candidates who may not have applied for their position. It's important that your resume reflects all of your experience and education, and that the content is clear, concise, and contains relevant technical terminology and specific responsibilities that you have had.