Creating a Narrative Resume for Military Spouse Federal Jobs

I'm helping my mom, who is a military spouse, create a narrative resume for federal jobs. Any tips on how federal resumes differ from regular ones and what specific things employers are looking for?

Federal resumes differ quite a bit from resumes for civilian jobs. Firstly, they're often several pages long, as opposed to the one-page norm for private sector resumes. They typically require a detailed history of your work experiences, including the number of hours worked per week, salaries and supervisor contact information.

Federal resumes favor clear job descriptions with a focus on responsibilities. Specifically, in a narrative resume format, rather than merely listing responsibilities and accomplishments, they should be described in a story-like format that tells of challenges faced, actions taken, and results achieved. Here's an example:

Instead of saying "Managed marketing campaigns," you might say, "Faced with a reduced budget, I orchestrated a strategic marketing campaign that boosted sales by 15%."

In terms of what employers are specifically looking for, federal job postings usually involve a list of “Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)” that an applicant should possess. Ensure these KSAs are addressed somewhere in your resume. Another key thing to note is that federal resume selectors like to see very specific language used that aligns with the job posting.

Being a military spouse can also add value to a federal resume. Demonstrate flexibility and resilience due to frequent relocations and adaptability to new communities and tasks. These are qualities that can set your mother apart.

Always remember to proofread for perfect spelling and grammar—attention to detail is a valued trait in federal jobs. It can be a complex process, but creating a detailed and descriptive federal resume can significantly increase her chances of landing the job.