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I like this book. There’s obviously some differences/specifics to government employment that it doesn’t cover, but I think the basic principles are sound.

Thanks for writing up this guide! It’s a nice overview.

I would be interested in your assessment of how informational interviewing might (not) fit into the competitive hiring process. By informational interviewing I mean pre-application candidates meeting with individuals at prospective employers to learn about the field and the worker’s experience and also to build relationships that may lead to referrals for future employment, as discussed in the book The 2-Hour Job Search by Steve Dalton.

What are your thoughts on this?

If your agency allows logging in via a personal laptop, they are either completely inept or they know more about you than you do.

Any legit agency will block private VPNs like IPVanish or whatever, even if they allow use of personal equipment.

The comprehensive manual for juggling work and family. This eBook covers a variety of subjects, including the definition of work-life balance, why it's crucial for everyone, how employers are recognizing this need, how to evaluate your job honestly and decide whether you need to look for a new job, how to make improvements at work, what to do if you can't leave your current position, and much more. Succeed in life by taking charge.: The Complete guide to balancing Work and Family https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5VHYTKR/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_12Z8Q57CZ3B3F3FKT0WM

I've seen the Federal Resume Guidebook recommended a few places, might be worth a try, especially if your local library has a copy for free.

Federal Resume Guidebook: Federal Resume Writing Featuring the Outline Format Federal Resume https://smile.amazon.com/dp/173340760X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_5FCY8ZRHEP65EBATCWKS looked it up so you don’t have to

My condolences for getting a job there.

Remember this one thing. Not all govt agencies suck as bad as the FBI does. Trust me. Get your 52 weeks in and look for another job in another agency.

https://casetext.com/case/montoya-v-fed-bureau-of-investigation

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HFVCMM6

I can't specifically say for the VA but I've had about 4 or 5 different interviews over the last few years, some for federal jobs and some not. I'd say the STAR interviewing method is the most useful thing to look into before an interview and plenty of the types of questions/examples were used in my federal interviews.

In addition to that, just the obvious knowing what's on your resume, understanding the job/responsibilities you're applying for, and knowing how to relate the two. I've also come to realize how important it is to not only answer questions, but also "selling yourself" to them, explain why you'd be a good fit.

Last but not least, my goal is to always fine a way to relate my interviewer to someone I already know, find something similar about them. If you can get in the mindset that they're a friend or at least a friendly person, it'll help you relax a bit more. That has always helped for me.

Study guide for their proctored exam? I haven’t taken one for IRS, but have for several other agencies. They’re all similar, and I can recommend brushing up on logic and math so you’re prepared.

Master The Special Agent Exam https://www.amazon.com/dp/0768927951?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I’ve always been good at tests, so I didn’t think any of them were that bad, but many people fail.

rolling backpack like this rolling laptop backpack

The Federal Resume Guidebook highly recommends something similar to this, using paragraphs that start with keywords from a job announcement. This helps HR match your resume to a position even if the specific reviewer doesn't know the subject well.

Example:

REVIEW HISTORICAL DATA AND ESTIMATES FOR BUDGETS that cover large internal operating programs or a functional area;

DEVELOP SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS AND PROCEDURAL GUIDELINES for assigned programs for the preparation and completion of budget estimates;

etc.