Career Advice

Making the cert list… How JobStars Federal Resume Service works

Have you thought about using a federal resume service before but wanted more information? Read my review of JobStars Federal Resume service.

What happens if you get fired from a federal job? 

Are you a federal employee who is about to get fired? Here's what happens if you get terminated from federal employment (i.e. fired from federal jobs).

Top 10 disadvantages of working for the federal government

Going through the advantages and disadvantages of a federal government job? Here are some cons of public sector jobs I've seen in 20 years of experience.

Background Checks for Federal Employees- What You Need to Know

I wrote this post to help potential federal employees navigate their background checks using the SF-85 and land their first federal job.

Everything you wanted to know about part time federal employment but were too afraid to ask

Are you considering part time federal employment but are unsure of what it will do to your leave, pension, and other benefits? Read on to find out what changes.

Federal Employees Oath of Office: Ultimate Guide for New Employees and Those Who Have Forgotten It

If you’re thinking about joining the ranks of federal employees who have already signed the oath of office, I’ll walk you through what it says

Bereavement Leave for Federal Employees

This breaks down OPM policy on bereavement leave for federal employees. Undrestand when and how to use bereavement leave.

I asked 25,000 people if they regret leaving federal government. Here’s what I learned.

Are you thinking about quitting your government job? I talked to a large group of federal employees whether they regret leaving federal government.

2023 Federal Employee Leave Calendar: Maximize Your Valuable Time

Download your 2023 federal employee leave calendar spreadsheet here. Provided as a Google Sheet that you can edit anywhere.

Federal Employee Drug Testing- A simple guide so you never need to worry

Are you applying for a federal job and want to understand federal employee drug testing policy? Read on to find out more.

Can federal employees use Delta-8 THC products?

Have you seen advertisements for "legal" Delta-8 THC made from hemp and are curious about whether or not you can use it as a fed? Here's what you need to know.

Top Personal Security Tips Whether Federal Workers Return To Office Or Work From Home

A summary of some of the best cyber and physical security practices to keep your data secure when working from home.

Do Federal Employees Need Professional Liability Insurance? Myth And Reality

Do Federal Employees Need Professional Liability Insurance? This post breaks down some myths and realities of your potential liability.

Should I Go From GS-15 To SES? Pros And Cons Of SES Careers

SES careers represent the pinnacle of public service. But are they a good fit for you? Find out all of the pros and cons of an SES career in this article.

It’s Here: Grab Your Free Federal Employee Sick Leave Retirement Calculator

Wondering how much your sick leave will be worth for your FERS retirement as a federal employee? Here's a handy calculator to help you.

The Truth About Compensation for OCONUS Jobs

Want to understand how compensation works for OCONUS jobs? Check out this question and answer with an overseas federal employee.

Federal Employee Lunch Break Rules- All You’ll Ever Need to Know

This post breaks down and explains all of the rules and regulations regarding federal employee lunch break rules in plain language.

Can federal employees have a second job?

Can federal employees have a second job. In most cases, yes. Check out this post for a summary of the rules and pitfalls to avoid.

Working for Private Companies Versus the Government: Numbers Don’t Lie

Surviving a government shutdown

The 2018-2019 US government shutdown was the longest in US history. Here is my story about surviving a government shutdown.