POINTERS FOR THE FEDERAL INTERVIEW
When you apply for a job on the USAJOBS, it is important that you print a copy of each announcement and keep it in a binder or folder. Maintain organization of your applications including the resume and KSAs you have submitted.
It is not unusual for an agency to notify an applicant of an interview opportunity several months after the closing date of the announcement.
Many federal interviews are conducted by panels of 3-5 interviewers; candidates should ask the contact person how many will be participating in the interview.
Applicants should bring an official copy of their transcript (if they are using
education to qualify for the position), a copy of their DD-214 and other related
paperwork (if they are claiming veterans’ preference) and/or their latest SF-50
form (if claiming reinstatement rights or the applicant is a current federal
employee) to the interview.
Federal interviewers often take notes during the interview. It is best to not be distracted by their note taking.
Many interviews for federal positions are conducted by telephone anywhere in the country. Candidates should treat phone interviews the same way they would treat a face to face interview. These can be particularly difficult if the interview panel is in several different locations.
When interviewing in person, federal agencies have extensive security procedures; applicants should plan at least 30 minutes to clear security (not counting traffic, parking, etc.)
If an applicant applied for a position at a particular grade, the agency cannot
change the grade during the interview, regardless of applicant qualifications. The
agency does, however, have certain flexibilities about starting salary. When a job
offer is made, applicants should inquire about Superior Qualifications adjustments or Highest Previous Rate (if their previous, related employment offered a higher salary). All salary negotiations should take place before acceptance of the position. Applicant may submit payment records of three recent years.
Many federal jobs have only one round of interviews so candidates should treat all interviews as the final.
Applicants should not expect to receive a job offer during the interview as all
candidates must be interviewed before an offer can be made. Offers are made by
Human Resources and not the selecting official or hiring manager.
Candidates should be prepared to provide 3 to 5 references during the interview; federal agencies are encouraged to perform thorough reference checks before making offers.
