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  • Writer's pictureDeanna Deveney

Finding Employment in the Public Sector


If you want to work in public service as a job, you can choose from several different paths. You could volunteer, get an appointment with the government, or work for a nonprofit. You'll also need to know how to write a cover letter and get your foot in the door at a government agency.


Volunteering is a great way to get started if you want to find a job in public service. Nonprofits and government agencies often have large staffs and need volunteers to help with more hands-on tasks. Volunteers can help with everything from making meals to talking to homeless teens. When you try to get a job in public service, this hands-on experience will help you a lot.


Also, volunteering will help you meet more people. For example, you might find possible coworkers and clients at your new job, or you might be able to meet potential clients and suppliers. You might even find a mentor who can help you along the way and cheer you on. A mentor could be a paid employee or a volunteer who helps you reach your long-term career goals.


If you want to work in the public sector, you might want to think about working for a nonprofit. Often, these organizations need people with different skills to do their jobs. Also, unlike traditional businesses, nonprofits have a minor team of workers, which means that workers get to do more other things.


Even though nonprofit jobs often pay less, some people are willing to take less money in exchange for doing work they feel is essential. But before negotiating, you should do a lot of research on pay and benefits. You will need to be ready to work hard and learn something new. For jobs in public service, you need to be able to talk to people and keep things organized. You also need to be good at fundraising and marketing for an appointment with a nonprofit. You will also need to have a good reputation and good writing skills.


Writing a cover letter is an essential part of applying for a job in the public sector. The letter is the first chance for the employer to see if your skills and attitude are a good fit for the job. You can also show you know about the agency's programs and mission. Lastly, you should be clear about why you are a good fit for the job and give examples. When you talk about your experience, give specific examples and numbers.


When writing a cover letter for a public service job, follow the rules for how to format it. For example, the font you use for your cover letter and resume should be the same. Using white paper and Times New Roman font is also a good idea. Last, make sure your letter is broken up into paragraphs and has bullet points where they are needed. Even though it can be hard to write a cover letter for a government job, it is essential to show that you have the right experience and education. This is especially true for employment with the federal government, where you must send a cover letter. This step also shows the employer that you can follow directions and are serious about the job.


Getting a government agency or department job can be a stable and rewarding choice. Some government jobs are hard to find, but many government agencies and departments always look for people to work for them. There are many open jobs in the government, and many are looking for college students and recent graduates to fill them. Many recruiters are looking for people with your education and skills who want to work for the government. Check out websites like Handshake to find government departments and agencies looking for qualified applicants.


Getting a job with a government office or agency is a great way to move up your career and simultaneously help the community engagement. Most of the time, these employers want to hire people who have a mind for service. People like these want to work for the government to do good for their communities. People who work for the government often have to help their local, state, and national communities.


After you send in your application, hiring managers will look it over. They will talk about your skills and ask questions about your work history. Then, an interview will be set up if you seem like a good fit. Discussions in the government tend to take longer than those in the private sector, and you may have to go through the process more than once.

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