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Old 03-03-2012, 01:09 AM
 
15 posts, read 37,973 times
Reputation: 16

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Over the past few years I scour USAJOBS submitting 100s and 100s of applications/questionnaires/resumes to no avail. I revamp my resume and try to write strong cover letters but I can't even score an interview! Is there a secret to getting a job on Ft Lee or Bellwood? I have education (a BA & a JD) and I'm trying to build my experience. I do not qualify for any veteran or spousal preference. I'm hoping to become a contract specialist...but I'm open to other positions like project or managenent analysts. If anyone has any tips, ideas, suggestions, contacts I'd greatly appreciate them. I NEED HELP!

Thank you in advance!
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Old 03-03-2012, 08:04 AM
 
306 posts, read 689,869 times
Reputation: 113
Well, with the high number of unemployment, you have more people applying for the same job so you have more applicants to go against. I know when I was trying out for the police force (multiple agencies), I had a solid resume and background. Minority, bilingual, BA degree, etc. But even the SLIGHTEST flaw could mean the position. We had hundreds of applicants fighting for 15 spots.

Nevertheless, it doesn't mean your cover letter or resume are weak, just means that this area has positions open that aren't a good match for you (in their eyes). Keep trying, it'll work out for you in the end. It's just a tough job market out there.
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Old 03-05-2012, 08:29 AM
 
15 posts, read 37,973 times
Reputation: 16
You're absolutely right. Thanks for responding. Areas that were much easier to break into a few years ago are being flooded with resumes from prospectives now. But in passing, I've met a few ppl who work on Ft.Lee, Bellwood, Ft.Belvoir or the Naval Base who make it seem like getting on was a piece of cake...most just say keep your eyes on usajobs. So I got on here to see if anyone knew what the secret is to landing a federal gig.
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Old 03-05-2012, 08:59 AM
 
306 posts, read 689,869 times
Reputation: 113
Believe me, I know the feeling. About 3-4 of my friends in the same graduating class as mine, have gotten on the police force already. I'm like..just like that huh? But, I am a believer in things happen the way it is meant to happen so if it isn't my time to be a police officer (if ever) then there are other plans for me to contribute to this world. I will try again though in a couple years. Good luck to you!

And if you find the secret, let me know LOL jk
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Old 03-05-2012, 09:12 AM
 
15 posts, read 37,973 times
Reputation: 16
Are you interested in positions outside of VA? My undergrad sent me an email a few weeks ago about Philly hiring officers. And a several months ago I got an email about NYPD hiring. I know the metropolitan areas might not be of interest to you...but I thought I'd put it out there. Oh and the correctional institution (fed) is hiring correctional officers which might be a nice stepping stone.

Best of luck! And if I find the secret I'll definitely share
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Old 03-05-2012, 03:47 PM
 
7 posts, read 14,820 times
Reputation: 10
Check on www.opm.gov look for link: student and recent graduates ... also presidential fellows program ...

There are opportunities for college graduates who are placed first into .... intern positions then into permanent federal positions etc. Look for intern positions leading to career status. There are also virtual job fairs advertised on www.opm.gov
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Old 03-05-2012, 04:01 PM
 
Location: Atlanta, GA
696 posts, read 1,301,691 times
Reputation: 597
Become a Virginia State Trooper!!
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Old 03-05-2012, 09:44 PM
 
Location: Chesterfield, VA
1,222 posts, read 5,150,066 times
Reputation: 552
Well, are you interested in going in for a position that you are underqualified for? Not trying to be funny, but my husband took a huge pay cut when he accepted his first GS position a few years back. If that is not an option, look into a position with a contractor. Many folks are able to slide into a GS position after they have been with a contractor for a couple of years.

There are also job fairs on the installation a couple of times a year. You might try "liking" Fort Lee Army Community Service or the Fort Lee Traveller on FB. They will often let the community know when the job fairs are planned.

Good luck in your search!
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Old 03-06-2012, 08:08 AM
 
306 posts, read 689,869 times
Reputation: 113
Quote:
Originally Posted by ronyusa View Post
Become a Virginia State Trooper!!
That was my #1 choice, got the furthest with them then was cut. =/


And JD, I saw all those places were hiring. NYPD has like a 2-year wait list. Philly, I am not so interested in. I really wanted to become a VSP trooper OR RPD city cop. But we'll see what life has for me ahead of time. Anyway, this is your thread, so I won't jack it
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Old 03-10-2012, 08:36 AM
 
221 posts, read 438,464 times
Reputation: 90
You know there is a Federal Reserve Bank in Richmond, right? Try there?
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