Career Transition Resource Hub

Career Transition Support Sessions Available

As part of our commitment to supporting employees affected by the upcoming Reduction in Force (RIF), we are offering both in-person and virtual support sessions. We understand this is a time of uncertainty, and we are committed to ensuring you have the support, tools, and resources you need to navigate this transition. 

In-Person Career Transition Support Sessions
 

April 16th – June 4th (Wednesdays)

Virtual Career Transition Support Sessions

April 17th – June 5th (Thursdays)

Events & Resources for Job-Seekers in DC, Maryland, and Virginia

Resources Outside DC, Maryland, and Virginia

• Find Your State Labor Offices | U.S. Department of Labor
• Learn How to File for Unemployment Benefits in Your State | CareerOneStop
• California: Federal Workers: We’re Here to Help! | Employment Development Department
• Cleveland, OH: Resources for Job Seekers | Greater Cleveland Works
• Colorado: Resources for Federal Workers | Department of Labor & Employment
• Florida: Apply for Benefits | Florida Department of Commerce
• Illinois: Federal Employee Resources and Information | Illinois Department of Employment Security
• Massachusetts: Federal Workers | Mass.gov
• Missouri: Helpful Links and Resources Regarding Employment and Unemployment | Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations
• New Jersey: New Jersey Department of Labor Assists Federal Workers Impacted by Layoffs | Department of Labor and Workforce Development
• New York: Federal Workers: We Want You | New York State
• North Carolina: Resources for Federal Workers | N.C. Department of Commerce
• Philadelphia, PA: 
  • Resources for Displaced Federal Workers and Job Seekers | Free Library of Philadelphia 
  • Resources for Job Seekers | Free Library of Philadelphia
• Texas: Employment Resources | Texas Workforce Commission

Career Transition Resources

Resources to support informed steps toward a new career opportunity in the public or private sector.

Transitioning from the Public Sector to the Private Sector

Transitioning from federal service to the private sector can be a significant shift. Here's a breakdown of key recommendations for employees facing this change:  

1. Prepare Your Transition  
   1. Resume and LinkedIn: 
      1. Translate federal jargon into language that private sector employers understand.  
      2. Highlight transferable skills, such as project management, leadership, and problem-solving.  
      3. Optimize your LinkedIn profile to showcase your experience and network with industry professionals.  
   2. Networking:   
      1. Attend industry events and connect with people in your target field.  
      2. Leverage your existing network, including former colleagues and professional associations.  
      3. Informational interviews can provide valuable insights and potential leads.  
   3. Skills Assessment:   
      1. Identify your strengths and weaknesses.  
      2. Consider taking courses or certifications to enhance your skills and make yourself more marketable.  
      3. Be prepared to demonstrate how your federal experience translates to private sector needs.  
   4. Financial Planning:   
      1. Assess your financial situation and create a budget.  
      2. Understand the implications of leaving federal service on your retirement benefits.  
      3. Consult with a financial advisor if needed.  
   5. Documentation:   
      1. Obtain copies of important documents, such as your Official Personnel File (OPF), performance evaluations, and SF-50s.  
2. Key Considerations:   
   1. Transferable Skills:Federal employees possess many valuable skills, including:   
      1. Project management  
      2. Analytical skills  
      3. Communication skills  
      4. Policy analysis  
      5. Budget management 
   2. Industry Research: Identify industries and companies that align with your skills and interests.  
   3. Career Coaching:Consider working with a career coach who specializes in transitions from federal service to the private sector.  
3. Important Notes:  
   1. Each individual's transition will be unique.  
   2. Be prepared for a potentially lengthy job search.  
   3. Maintain a positive attitude and be persistent.  
   4. By taking these steps, federal employees can increase their chances of a successful transition to the private sector.  

Here are some additional resources that may be useful as you transition to a private sector career.

• Guide to Leaving a Government Job for the Private Sector (With Tips)  
• Leaving Government for the Private Sector   
• Transitioning from the Public to Private Sector: What you need to know.  
• What to Know About Private Sector vs Public Sector Jobs | Indeed.com  

ED Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

ED's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers free, confidential counseling that can be used to obtain employment counseling and support during a career transition, as well as referrals to other needed resources.

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and WorkLife4You Program are available at no cost to you and are accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 

By Phone: 

• 1-800-222-0364 (TTY: 1-888-262-7848)

Online:

• Employee Assisstance Program (EAP)
• WorkLife4You Program 

You can also contact the Benefits team at benefits@ed.gov for additional information.

Resume Writing and Interview Preparation Resources

Self-Assessment, Retraining and Upskilling, Networking, and Job Coaching Resources  

Key Points of Contact at the Department of Education