Your new job is within your grasp. Refer to the tips below to give you an edge above the rest of your competition.
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Most public agencies will include requirements for the position and minimum qualifications.
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Look closely at all flyers and postings to determine what minimum qualifications and requirements for the position are.
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If comfortable that your skill set meets these criteria, then tailor resume and cover letter specifically to include these criteria.
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Many public agencies require applicants to fill out application packet. Make sure application packet parallels resume and cover letter and emphasizes requirements and minimum qualifications of position applied for.
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Most public agencies will utilize a panel format when interviewing candidates. Panels often consist of a cross section of employees within the agency.
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Be prepared for a structured interview; civil service and merit system standards mandate consistency in recruitment standards and as such questions must be asked consistently to all candidates.
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Be prepared for a combination of questions that are specific to your profession as well as questions that are more personality based.
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Keep in mind that the interview is usually scored much in the same way a test is scored. Merit system, civil service and EEOC requirements all require that detailed records be maintained.
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Panels are usually most content when questioned are answered concisely and to the point.
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Do some research. Panels want to know that you are interested in the position and knowing something about the agency and the department you may be working in indicates you are serious about the position. Most relevant information is easy to find. Agency website is usually a good source of data.
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Most salaries ranges are clearly defined and stated in the recruitment literature. Exceptions to this are usually only high level positions like City Manager or executive level department heads.
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Attempting to negotiate a salary that is higher than the range stated in the recruitment materials are almost always unsuccessful.
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Beginning salaries are usually determined by a combination of education and experience.
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Understand how salaries are administered before going through this process. Any salary request should have a strong basis in years of experience.
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