How do I write a resume for a government or federal job?

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Federal resumes are dramatically different from private sector resumes and can be 3-5+ pages. Government hiring follows strict protocols, so you must address every requirement explicitly. Key differences: Length isn't restricted - comprehensive detail is valued over brevity. Include EVERYTHING relevant. Personal information: Full name, mailing address (required), country of citizenship, and sometimes social security number. For each job, include: employer name and full address, supervisor name and phone number, exact dates (month/year) for start and end, salary, hours per week (full-time/part-time), whether they can contact this employer. Detailed descriptions: Unlike private sector where you keep bullets tight, federal resumes require comprehensive descriptions of your duties AND accomplishments. Write paragraph-style descriptions plus bullet achievements. Address EVERY qualification in the job posting explicitly. If they ask for 'experience with X,' don't just mention X - provide detailed examples with dates, contexts, and results. Include keywords from the job announcement repeatedly. Education section is extensive: include credits, major, relevant coursework. List professional training, certifications, and clearances prominently. For veterans, clearly state veteran status and preference eligibility. Many federal jobs use USAJobs.gov - use their resume builder to ensure proper formatting. The process is slow (months) and bureaucratic. Follow instructions exactly.

How do I write a resume for a government or federal job?