Government Resume Template for Microsoft Word
CONTENTS
Introduction
When you’re hoping to land a job in the government sector, you must do whatever you can to get your job application noticed. The first step to garnering attention is writing a highly effective resume. You can get help in doing this with the government resume template for Word. Then, you’ll be sure to impress any tough employer with a strong summary statement, an impressive skills section, a detailed work history, and an impactful listing of your educational achievements, like in the example image below.
Writing Your Summary Statement
Government resumes are most likely read by a computer at first, so it’s important to make sure you start with a clear summary statement with specific keywords. You’ll want to include keywords that are mentioned in the duties and responsibilities from the initial job posting. You can also include the job title you’ve most recently had in your work experience. Most summary statements are formatted in bullet points, like in the government resume template for Word. You can also write your summary statement in sentence format. Here are some suggestions:
Summary Statement Example 1:
Government public housing inspector with 18 years of experience
Knowledge of all required permits and regulations for residential zoning
Experience with detailed inspections and follow-ups for repeat offenders
Summary Statement Example 2:
Office manager with four years of administrative experience. Experience working with high-level employees and tight deadlines. Strength in managing a fast-paced work environment with six additional assistants
Summary Statement Example 3:
Circuit court clerk with more than 12 years of industry experience
Responsible for preparing all records related to criminal court cases
Solid understanding of legal documents for proceedings
Summary Statement Example 4:
Public relations manager with proven history of results
Excellent oral and written communication skills to craft messages
Effective understanding of press releases that generate positive buzz
Writing Your Skills Section
Next, you need to devote some time to creating a top skills section for your resume. This section is crucial in getting the attention of the hiring manager, so be sure to put some thought into what you’re including. The government resume template for Word is a great tool to help you get started. Here are additional key points to consider:
Be sure to only include the most important skills that are specifically tailored to the job or this industry.
Start with the top skills for workers in the government sector and end with general qualities that many workers should have.
Keep your list short and concise by using a bulleted list format, which is much easier for a hiring manager to quickly peruse.
Here is a detailed list of government employee skills that may be helpful for your own resume:
Strong critical thinking ability
Understanding of important government regulatory information
Ability to solve challenging problems effectively
Strength with communicating in writing or when speaking
Commitment to excellence in public service
Excellent attention to detail
Writing Your Work History Section
Your next task in making your resume great is writing a work history. For this section, focus on presenting an informative list of relevant experiences that show why you’re perfect for the job. Use the government resume template for Word to get some example work history listings. Here are some additional best practices:
Paint a picture with clear action verbs.
List your work history with the most recent on top.
Be sure to include quantities when possible.
Here is what it should look like:
Public Housing Inspector at NYC Services / 2011-present / New York, NY
Inspected residential housing units throughout the city
Researched possible permit violations
Prepared reports for each inspection for submittal to superiors
Office Manager at Broward County School District / 2012-present / Broward, FL
Assisted more than 100 employees with leave documentation
Scheduled repair for office equipment
Circuit Court Clerk at Monroe County Courts / 2011-present / Monroe, AL
Documented court proceedings for criminal cases
Inputted information for routine court procedures
Prepared reports listing details about case outcomes
Public Relations Manager at Office of the Comptroller / 2001-present / Annapolis, MD
Wrote press releases regarding new initiatives
Partnered with local media to ensure accurate coverage
Writing Your Education Section
The last big part of your resume is your education section. A few of the best practices for this section are:
For most jobs in government, you should start with your most recent college degree. If you don’t have a college degree, begin with your highest level of education.
You can then include information regarding additional classes or certifications you have earned.
The last few things to include could be important clubs or activities from school.
Use the government resume template for Word to figure out how to create examples like these:
University of Virginia / BS Architecture / 1996
Coursework in blueprint reading and construction technology
Minor in Engineering
Verhoeven College / BA Public Relations / 2001
Minor in Journalism
Coursework in Business
Vice President of Alpha Kappa Alpha
Most Popular Resume Templates
Ready to build a strong resume?
Create my ResumeUsers find our resume templates helpful
As seen in*
*The names and logos of the companies referred to in this page are all trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically stated otherwise, such references are not intended to imply any affiliation or association with LiveCareer.