I know many of you are facing uncertainty and change right now, and my best advice is to keep focusing on our mission of serving the public and strengthening our communities. Your commitment and service are deeply valued, and even in transition, your contributions make a real difference.
I’ve received numerous messages asking for resources to support those transitioning or recently laid off. Whether you’re a recent probationary employee let go, caught up in downsizing, part of a Deferred Resignation Program, a Voluntary Employee Retirement Agreement, or planning retirement, I want to recognize the hard work and dedication you’ve shown throughout your service in your respective agency to our country. Each of you has committed to serving others, and for that, thank you.
Change can be both emotionally and financially challenging, but please know that you are not alone during this time. I’ve compiled a list of resources designed to help with your transition, including job search tools, career counseling, resume writing assistance, and networking opportunities. While this list isn’t exhaustive, I hope it serves as a helpful starting point as you explore your next steps. If others have good resources please feel free to share.
Wishing you the best in your next chapter. Your service and dedication continue to inspire us all. Thank you.
#Transition, #CareerSupport, #PublicService
Job Boards and Employment Websites
- LinkedIn: A professional networking platform that allows users to connect with employers, join industry groups, and search for jobs.
- Website: https://www.linkedin.com
- Indeed: One of the largest job search engines, offering positions across industries and locations.
- Website: https://www.indeed.com
- Glassdoor: Provides job listings, company reviews, and salary insights to help make informed decisions.
- Website: https://www.glassdoor.com
- Monster: A job search platform offering resume tips, career advice, and job postings.
- Website: https://www.monster.com
- USAJobs Transition Assistance: While primarily Federal-focused, it also links to resources for private-sector opportunities.
- Website: https://www.usajobs.gov
Career Counseling and Transition Services
- CareerOneStop (U.S. Department of Labor): Offers tools for career exploration, job search, and resume building.
- Website: https://www.careeronestop.org
- Hire Heroes USA: Specifically designed for veterans and military spouses, offering free career coaching and job placement services.
- Website: https://www.hireheroesusa.org
- The Muse: Provides career coaching, resume reviews, and job search tools tailored to individual needs.
- Website: https://www.themuse.com
Networking and Professional Associations
- Meetup: A platform to join professional networking groups and attend career events.
- Website: https://www.meetup.com
- Chamber of Commerce: Local business associations often post job leads and host industry events.
- Website: https://www.uschamber.com
- Industry-Specific Associations: Examples include the Project Management Institute (PMI), American Marketing Association (AMA), or Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). These organizations often have job boards and networking opportunities.
Resume and Interview Preparation
- Top Resume: Offers professional resume writing services and career advice.
- Website: https://www.topresume.com
- Zety: Provides resume templates and a builder, along with career guidance.
- Website: https://zety.com
- Big Interview: An online system that combines training and practice to help improve interview skills.
- Website: https://biginterview.com
Entrepreneurship Resources
- Small Business Administration (SBA): Offers resources and tools for starting a business, including grants and loans.
- Website: https://www.sba.gov
- SCORE: A nonprofit providing mentorship and resources for aspiring entrepreneurs.
- Website: https://www.score.org
Temporary and Contract Work
- Upwork: A platform for finding freelance and contract work opportunities.
- Website: https://www.upwork.com
- Fiverr: A marketplace for freelance services in various fields.
- Website: https://www.fiverr.com
- Kelly Services: A staffing agency offering temporary, contract, and permanent job placements.
- Website: https://www.kellyservices.com
Federal Employee-Specific Transition Programs
- Office of Personnel Management (OPM) – Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP): A Federal program supporting employees transitioning out of government roles.
- Website: https://www.opm.gov
- Department of Labor – Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA): Provides services like retraining and job placement assistance.
Additional Resources
- Local Workforce Development Boards: Often provide job search assistance, career counseling, and training opportunities.
- American Job Centers: Nationwide network offering career support services.
These techniques may also be useful: