Trouble starting overHi, I am having trouble finding a job, but I bet that isn't the first time you've read that! The problem I'm having is transferring my goverment experience. My previous job was a government position that I held for almost 4 years. I'm finding it difficult using that experience for jobs outside the government. The computer programs that I was an expert in are only used in the government. The duties that I had also are only used in the government. I have managerial experience as well, but it just doesn't seem to translate. How do employers feel about hiring former government employees? Do I have to start at the bottom again or start at an entry level position? I recieved so much praise from my previous job and it's hard to believe that al that hard work doesn't mean anything outside government walls. please help Chances are you will have to start with either an entry-level - couple of rungs above type job until you get private corporation experience. Contact your local county or city government or state government human resource departments. Take some night courses to learn Excel and Word. Quick tip about Outlook (in case you are asked in interview)...You can do everything with Outlook; calendering,e-mail, notes, tasks, phone messages, reminders; and navigation is a breeze. You have a computer, so self-teach if the expense of night courses will be too much. Get some books from the library and familiarize yourself with programs that have been advertised in connection with a position that you are interested in. Unfortunately, you will have to make the most adjustments. To your style of dealing with people, your sense of control and security, even your resolution abilities will need to be toned down. However; your skills and abilities are not lost. You can type, you know the internet, you are a fast learner and eager to learn, you are a team player, you take direction well, you have great attendance, you are punctual, you are efficient, you show initiative, you can prioritize, you know how to multi-task, you understand deadlines and meet them, you look for work and are willing to help out when needed, you have definately dealt with a variety of personalities. Do you have your degree? I mean a general studies type Associates or Bacheldors. An industry specific degree seems to be a problem for some posters who have decided that wasn't the correct career choice for them or for industries where the jobs are few and far between. Is there some reason you left the government job? Is there a reason you can' t go back to a similar job? Or are you trying to change industries/careers? Thank you for responding. As for an answer to your question, my department was eliminated and I was laid off as a result. I would like to get back into that line of work but, it' s easier said than done. Unfortunately, you have to reapply like a totally new applicant and your job will be filled by a veteran of the office, skilled or unskilled, before you can be up for it. | |
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