how to write application letter for federal government job

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Cover Letter for a Federal Job (Template, Example, & Writing Tips)

Working in the federal government requires a strong job application tailored to the government agency you want to work for. Read on to learn more about writing a federal cover letter to impress hiring managers and kick-start your career as a government worker.

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Jobs for government or public sector positions often require you to write a cover letter or personal statement. So in addition to your federal resume , you should write a federal cover letter that follows the agency’s application instructions and presents you as a highly skilled professional.

Our free-to-use cover letter builder can make you a cover letter in as little as 5 minutes. Just pick the template you want, and our software will format everything for you.

What does a cover letter for a federal job look like?

A federal cover letter is a one-page document consisting of 3–4 paragraphs that describe why you’re applying for a government role and what hard and soft skills you’ll bring to the position.

A cover letter’s purpose is to showcase more of your personality and prove why you’re the best candidate for the job. And because government jobs are competitive, a generic cover letter won’t be enough to land an interview.

The required qualifications will depend on the agency or the job. For instance, most agencies group their federal hiring requirements into three categories: general experience, specialized experience, and education.

So write a strong federal job cover letter by carefully researching the government agency you want to work for. After understanding their requirements, you can begin writing your cover letter.

Make sure you’ve collected the essential criteria for your job application such as proof of your citizenship status , veteran status , security clearance , and General Schedule (GS) grade before you start your cover letter .

Government hiring managers are looking for a candidate who can accurately:

• meet the agency’s minimum eligibility and job requirements
• highlight their years of  professional experience  and work achievements
• describe their  educational background  or  relevant coursework
• mention their genuine interest and reasons for applying to the position

So if you follow these guidelines in your cover letter, you’ll be a step closer to receiving an interview.

Now let’s take a closer look at what to include in a federal cover letter.

Federal cover letter template

These are the key cover letter components that government agencies require:

• Cover letter header
• Hiring manager’s name and agency address
• Opening paragraph
• Body paragraphs
• Closing paragraph
• Professional sign-off

Match your cover letter header with your resume header to show you’re an organized applicant and make it easy for an employer to access your information.

We’ve made a federal job cover letter template below for you to copy, paste, and customize.

1. Cover letter header

FIRST AND LAST NAME

Email: [email protected] | Phone: 937 426 199 | Address: 13674 Pursglove Court Rossberg, OH 45362 | Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/yourprofile

October 21, 2021

3. Hiring manager’s name and agency address

Ms. Charlotte Appen Administration for Native Americans 2nd Floor, West Aerospace Center 370 L’Enfant Promenade, SW Washington, DC 20447-0002

4. Salutation

Dear Ms. Appen,

5. Opening paragraph

After greeting the hiring manager with an appropriate cover letter salutation (from above), introduce yourself by explaining how you found out about the job posting. You can also use the opening paragraph to briefly:

• state your USAJOBS job announcement identification number and prospective job title
• mention any contacts you have at the agency
• list your educational background and years of professional experience
• express your enthusiasm and interest in applying for the role
• share an impressive piece of information about your previous experience or accomplishments

6. Body paragraphs

Write 1–2 body paragraphs explaining your relevant work history. Use hard numbers to make an impact and provide more context to the hiring manager.

For example, write “5+ years of law enforcement experience” instead of “experienced in law enforcement.”

Additionally, because companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to filter through applications, make sure you use the exact job-related keywords from the job announcement.

If you have years of relevant work experience, mention your hard skills . If you’re writing an entry-level cover letter , focus on your soft skills , emphasize your education, and tailor your experience to the agency’s goals, values, and challenges.

7. Closing paragraph

End your cover letter by thanking the employer for their time. Include a call to action (CTA) with your phone number and email address to display confidence and invite the hiring manager to contact you directly.

8. Professional sign-off

Use an appropriate cover letter sign-off such as “Sincerely” or “Warm Regards” to convey a professional tone. Signing your cover letter is optional, but make sure you leave a space and write your typed name.

Federal cover letter example

If you’re unsure how to format a federal cover letter or want to save time, try using a cover letter template or browse through cover letter examples to get some ideas.

Federal Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

December 9, 2021

Dear Mr. Park,

I’m writing to apply for the Security Specialist role at the Justice Management Division in Washington, DC. I recently graduated from Georgetown University with a Bachelor of Political Science degree. I believe you’ll find my keen interests in emergency and safety planning as well as 2+ years of working with security databases an asset to your team.

During my time at Georgetown University, I gained strong technical skills by working with Georgetown’s Campus Security team as a part-time student intern. I performed administrative and IT duties, such as working with programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook along with keeping accurate records and updating the files in the database as needed.

This position led to my becoming a member of the Student Safety Advisory Board, where I participated in weekly meetings to address student safety and security concerns. I was also one of 20 students who were selected to design and test out features of Georgetown’s safety app “LiveSafe” before it went live.

I’ve also successfully managed my academic studies and class projects and worked collaboratively with my fellow students for presentations and seminars, resulting in a 3.9 GPA upon graduation. I was also a member of the Georgetown Institute of Politics and Public Service. In this club, students like myself connected with local politicians and journalists and discussed important court cases and how to improve national security. I’d be thrilled to work closely with the Intelligence committee and learn as a Security Specialist if given this opportunity.

Thank you for reading my cover letter. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you in person to discuss my qualifications and your requirements for the role.

You can reach me at (202) 535-406 or [email protected] to arrange an interview.

Christopher Sun

5 tips on formatting a cover letter for a government job

Formatting your cover letter correctly is essential for a government job. Have a look at these five tips for formatting a federal cover letter:

1. Follow the job ad’s instructions

Working for a federal agency means you need to follow clearly established procedures compared to other companies.

To get on the shortlist of applicants, carefully read the job description and criteria before sending your federal cover letter.

For example, federal agencies commonly require you to disclose your salary details and say whether you worked full-time or part-time hours.

Check out the Federal Jobs and USA Jobs websites for more information on different federal and public sector positions, the exact qualifications you’ll need, and detailed formatting requirements for your application.

2. Save your cover letter as a PDF

Hiring managers have many federal job applications to choose from, so keep their attention by sending your cover letter as a .docx or .pdf file (depending on their instructions).

Saving your federal cover letter as a PDF preserves your formatting and ensures employers can open your cover letter without any issues.

3. Use a professional font and appropriate cover letter spacing

Because federal agencies have such formal hiring procedures, you need to convey that you’ve paid close attention to your cover letter’s appearance by using an appropriate cover letter font such as Times New Roman, Arial, or Georgia.

Additionally, space your cover letter by using 1” margins so employers won’t strain their eyes reading your cover letter.

If you’re having trouble fitting all of your content on one page, you can reduce your margins to a minimum of ½” to maintain the ideal cover letter length and still look professional.

4. Name your file correctly

Writing your file name accurately is important because it makes your file identifiable for hiring managers and shows you’ve paid attention to details.

Use your full name and the job title separated by dashes or underscores to name your federal cover letter:

How to correctly write your file name for a cover letter

“First-Name-Last-Name-Target-Job-Title-Cover-Letter.pdf”

Here’s an example of an applicant’s file name for their cover letter:

Robert-Wu-Budget-Analyst-Cover-Letter.pdf

5. Proofread your federal cover letter

Finally, don’t forget to proofread your cover letter before sending it by reading through it carefully.

Working in a government agency requires responsibilities such as dealing with sensitive information or handling large amounts of paperwork. So, communicate to employers you’ve got what it takes by presenting them with an error-free cover letter.

If possible, ask a friend or family member to help proofread your federal cover letter for spelling, punctuation, and grammar mistakes before you submit it.

Eva Chan, CPRW

Career Advisor & Senior Digital PR Writer (CPRW)

Eva Chan is a Senior Digital PR Writer and Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) at Resume Genius. Born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, Eva is passionate about researching and discussing the ever-changing career space and its latest trends, and channels this enthusiasm into supporting professionals of all experience levels so they stand out in a competitive job market. Eva graduated from the University of British Columbia with a bachelor’s degree in English. Eva's insights and career advice have earned recognition from leading platforms including CNBC, The Globe and Mail, Forbes, Newsweek, and U.S. News & World Report. For any media-related queries or for a future quote, you can reach her at [eva] @ [resumegenius.com] or connect with her via LinkedIn. Please note that we don’t accept any guest posts.

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Federal Cover Letter Example for Government Job in 2024

A federal resume is very long, and recruiters don't enjoy that. Give them a short and sweet summary in the form of a succinct and efficient federal job cover letter.

Fantastic news! You’ve already finished writing your resume and are ready to pursue your next government job. But wait! There’s more paperwork needed to achieve success.

A good federal job cover letter will convince even the most demanding hiring manager to read your application from start to finish. Don’t worry. In just a few minutes, you’ll learn how to write the perfect cover letter for government jobs.

This guide will show you:

• Two federal cover letter examples: for experienced and inexperienced candidates.
• What cover letter formatting rules you need to follow.
• A federal cover letter template you can update with your information in just 15 minutes.

Save hours of work and get a cover letter like this. Pick a template, fill it in. Quick and easy. Choose from 18+ cover letter templates and download your cover letter now.

Create your cover letter now

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I had an interview yesterday and the first thing they said on the phone was: “Wow! I love your cover letter.” Patrick I love the variety of templates. Good job guys, keep up the good work! Dylan  My previous cover letter was really weak and I used to spend hours adjusting it in Word. Now, I can introduce any changes within minutes. Absolutely wonderful! George

Looking for different cover letter examples? See:

• Career Change Cover Letter
• CIA Cover Letter
• Cover Letter for an Internship
• Cover Letter for Legal Job Application
• Firefighter Cover Letter
• Nonprofit Cover Letter
• Relocation Cover Letter
• Short Cover Letter Examples
• Social Worker Cover Letter
• USPS Cover Letter

First, here are two federal cover letter examples. See how these candidates manage their resources to get themselves to an interview.

Federal Cover Letter Examples

The first federal cover letter example comes from Matthew, who is applying for an administrative management position with NASA. It will be within his scope to recommend short-term solutions and long-term plans, liaising with high-ranking agency officials, congressional staff, and state, legislative, and private sector executives.

Let’s see his cover letter for a federal job:

Federal Cover Letter Example for an Experienced Candidate

Matthew Paderewski

Phone: +1-214-658-0002

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mattuspaderewski

Mountain View, Jan 25, 2020

Rene Trenton

Department Head

Moffett Blvd, 

Mountain View, CA 94035

It is with enthusiasm that I submit my application for the position of Administrative Manager at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration at the NASA Ames Research Center. During my 12+ years as a personnel clerk and administrative chief in the US Navy, I am equipped with the right staff management and large-scale organization skills to improve the efficiency of operations at Ames.

In the Navy, in the last 5 years, I orchestrated aircraft carrier deployments with my team of 14 clerks and administrators. One of my proudest achievements was preparing a 100,000-tonne ship for a 24-month sail by ensuring proper supply channels, taking care of orders, and filling out paperwork. I took part in administrating over 150 deployments and was personally responsible for 50+ of them. As a chief, I was responsible for liaising with the most senior Navy and other military officials, congressional staff, and politicians, as well as representatives of the government. We maintained good relationships with all these branches and, on more than one occasion, could count on their support or leniency in a tight spot. During this time, my team had 0 major incidents and responded to two crises in a timely and effective manner. I believe I can bring military discipline and careful attention to detail to NASA to increase the safety, comfort and efficiency of the astronauts and researchers alike.

I believe the skills I gained in the Navy are directly translatable to the reality of NASA, and my calmness, military discipline, and error-free meticulousness will secure the level of stability that the most innovative and groundbreaking government agencies require.

When could we schedule a meeting? I’ll gladly tell you how I handled an emergency response to an aircraft carrier running out of fuel.

Best Regards,

214-658-0002

[email protected]

Matt presented his work history, professional skills, and personal interests in this short document. But he is a very experienced professional.

What if you’re not nearly as experienced as he is?

The government offers many positions to recent graduates. And we’ll show you how to do it. Check out Steven’s cover letter for a federal job, he’s applying to be an intern with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The role isn’t pre-specified. They make assignments to different departments based on the interests, knowledge, and background of the candidates.

Federal Cover Letter Example With No Work Experience

Steven M. Walter

Phone: +1-252-653-4132

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stevenmwalter

Email: [email protected]

Orlando, Jan 25, 2020

Jane Employer

HR Recruiter

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

1 Main Avenue

Orlando, FL 32810

I was waiting impatiently for you to reopen your CFPB Summer Internship admissions. As a recent 4.0 GPA graduate of a Bachelor of Science in Fraud and Financial Crime Investigation from Utica College and an ACFE-certified Fraud Examiner, I am ready to serve the American public and root out predatory and abusive financial practices.

In my last year of college, I interned as a Fraud Analyst at the TQC Financial Group. During this 2-month placement, I was able to stay abreast of financial crime risk trends, relevant regulations, and compliance standards. During this time, I detected over 150 instances of fraud, totaling a prevented cost to TQC and clients of $1.5m. I also participated in investigation and prosecution activities of automatically detected (or suspected) fraud, working on over 100 cases totaling over $2.1m. TQC’s main clients were medium to large privately held companies, and I learned the typical mechanisms of corporate fraud and navigating the records, systems, and patterns of these companies. I was offered a full-time position at TQC at the end of the internship. Still, I decided to apply my talents to protecting individual, private persons whose livelihoods are at risk after instances of fraud.

Serving the American public is extremely important to me as a Navy League Cadet, and fraud is a personal issue for me. Working at CFPB and securing financial markets for consumers would be extremely gratifying to my personal calling.

When could we connect in person or by call to discuss how my corporate fraud analysis experience can translate to detecting and combating large-scale, low-stakes, individual target fraud?

Kind Regards,

252-653-4132

[email protected]

Steven’s cover letter effectively combines personal passion, professional achievements, and a tailored approach to the federal internship, making it a standout application.

Now, let’s write your own federal cover letter for government jobs.

Don’t have your resume ready just yet? Check out the Federal Resume Writing Guide .

How to Write a Cover Letter For Federal Jobs

Federal jobs are positions within the U.S. government, spanning various agencies and departments. Working for the federal government often involves contributing to public service. Some of the crucial skills needed for federal jobs are communication, analytical thinking, and leadership.

This is how to write a cover letter for government jobs that covers all the bases:

1. Square Up The Federal Cover Letter Format

Deep within the cogs of the bureaucratic machine (where you’re going), organization, rules, and order are everything. These jobs tend to be well-structured. Present your case very clearly by using the established federal cover letter formatting rules:

• Make sure your cover letter font is the same as your resume font . Pick a legible one: Cambria, Times New Roman, etc. 
• Always ‘Align Left’. There is no need to use justification.
• Use 1.15 line spacing, and leave an empty line between every section and paragraph.
• Use at least a 1-inch margin on every side.
• Perfect cover letter length ? 1 page. Always.

Now that you’ve structured the document, let’s start writing your cover letter .

Expert Hint: If you’re applying online, there are some specific issues to remember when sending your legal cover letter electronically, which our email cover letter guide will clue you up on. At ResumeLab, there are also always more cover letter tips, dos and don’ts to know.

2. Make Your Federal Cover Letter Header Match Your Resume

The header of your cover letter should match your resume header . Below your personal details, you should put the city and date of the letter, and the details of the hiring manager. Often, you will be applying impersonally through government portals. Call them up to check who’s handling it.

Here’s a template:

Federal Cover Letter Template—Header

[ Your Full Name]

[ Your Job Title ] (Optional)

[ Phone Number ]

[ Email Address ]

[ LinkedIn Profile ] (Optional)

[ City and Date ]

[ Hiring Manager’s Full Name ]

[ Hiring Manager’s Position ]

[ Company Name ]

[ Company Street Address ]

[ City and Zip Code ]

And if you’re wondering where to look for potential federal jobs, the best place to start the search is the official government resource to find employment .

Expert Hint: Finding out your hiring manager’s name can be time-consuming, but it pays off. A targeted cover letter is much more effective than a generic cover letter .

The ResumeLab builder is more than looks. Get specific content to boost your chances of getting the job. Add job descriptions, bullet points, and skills. Easy. Improve your resume in our resume builder now .

CREATE YOUR RESUME NOW

Nail it all with a splash of color, choose a clean font, and highlight your skills in just a few clicks. You're the perfect candidate, and we'll prove it. Use our resume builder now .

3. Introduce Yourself in the First Paragraph

Step number 1 is to show them you did your homework. The salutation, or greeting, sets the tone for the rest of your federal cover letter. If you hit the recruiter with a “To Whom It May Concern," they will put your application into the *REDACTED* pile. Use “Dear [their name]”. If you can’t find their name, no matter how hard you try, use their professional title instead.

As for what the first paragraph should look like: express your excitement for the position, and take the opportunity to showcase a significant accomplishment or relevant experience that makes you a standout candidate. Establish a professional and confident tone, steering clear of generic statements.

To make it easier, fill in the blanks:

Cover Letter for Government Job Template—Introduction

Dear [Hiring manager’s name] ,

I was excited to find the opening for a [target position name] at [target organization name] . Having spent the last [number of years] as a [previous position title] , I have devoted my energy to developing [very strong relevant skills you have] skills that will allow me to handle the [key requirement from the job posting] at [target organization name] effectively and contribute to [key goal of the organization] .

4. Present Your Strengths in the Main Body

Whether the federal job is clerical, behind the scenes, or community-facing, don’t make the cardinal mistake of forgetting whose interest is always meant to be at the forefront. The institution’s. Focus on what you can do for them, especially in terms of goals or projections they have made.

What are their problems right now? What are their plans for the near future? Are they considering implementing new technologies ? What is the most crucial requirement in the whole job posting? Focus on that. Be the problem solver and the person ready to take on any challenge. Back it up with numbers and achievements from your resume .

Start with this:

Federal Cover Letter Template—Second Paragraph

Since [Organization name] is seeking a [target position name] with competencies in [refer to the requirements of the job] , I believe I’m the perfect candidate. At [previous employer name] , I have acquired priceless expertise in [refer to the requirements of the job] , which brought about a [a metric, achievement, or statistic that proves your excellence in this area] . I have also devoted significant time to developing my [type of skill] skills through [relevant responsibilities, duties, or projects you’ve successfully completed, supported by metrics, if possible] . My experience in [key important requirement] combined with [target position name] ’s established practices and resources will bring about positive outcomes for your institution and the people it serves.

Expert Hint: Are you a veteran trying to get a government job? Check out our guide on writing a military-to-civilian resume .

5. Showcase Your Passion for the Job

It takes the right kind of person to perform some federal jobs and, even more so, to excel in them. An element of passion, or a calling, must often be present in someone to go in this direction.

If this sounds like you, articulate your motivation in this paragraph. Don’t flatter excessively, but instead explain how the approach and goals of the institution align with your own, and the resulting culture fit will result in good outcomes for everyone. Mentioning specific aspects of the company's values, projects, or goals shows that you're truly interested and aren’t sending copy-pasted applications wherever possible.

Here’s a small template to help:

Federal Job Cover Letter Template—Third Paragraph

By joining [target organization name] , which devotes so much time and energy to [the mission of the agency/their values/their activities/other] , I would finally be able to apply my [skills/experience] to [what the organization does] and help the American public [what the organization does for the public] .

Expert Hint: You might be tempted to skip writing a cover letter altogether. But that’s a bad idea. Our research has shown that cover letters are necessary , as more than 70% of recruiters expect to receive them, even if the job ad doesn’t say so.

6. Ask For an Interview And Close the Deal

Your federal resume most likely spans several pages. So, your short federal job cover letter is probably a breath of fresh air for the recruiter. Now that they’re rejuvenated after reading it, ask them for an interview.

Before you formally sign off your cover letter for government jobs, ask for a meeting or a call to discuss something you have expertise on that will benefit this government agency and its clients—the American public.

Federal Cover Letter Example: Sign Off & Call to Action

When would be a good time to have a call or a meeting to discuss how my [your best, most relevant skill/experience/their most important requirement] experience can help [target organization name] achieve [something important to them or the American public] ?

[Your Full Name]

[Phone Number]

[Email Address]

Double your impact with a matching resume and cover letter combo. Use our cover letter generator and make your application documents pop out.

CREATE YOUR COVER LETTER NOW

Want to try a different look? There's 21 more. A single click will give your document a total makeover. Pick a cover letter template here .

As you write a cover letter for government jobs, remember to:

• Match the cover letter header to your resume header , and check that the contact info is up-to-date for you and the hiring manager.
• Identify the position you’re applying to , and introduce yourself with a relevant achievement in the first paragraph.
• List your best achievements that match the job requirements , and back them up with numbers and evidence in the second paragraph of your federal cover letter.
• Show genuine interest in the organization and the cause , research, and write about something that struck you personally in your last paragraph.
• Request an interview and sign off.

Do you have any questions about writing a cover letter for federal jobs? Did you find our federal cover letter example helpful? Leave us a comment, I’ll be more than happy to hear from you!

About ResumeLab’s Editorial Process

At ResumeLab, quality is at the crux of our values, supporting our commitment to delivering top-notch career resources. The editorial team of career experts carefully reviews every article in accordance with editorial guidelines , ensuring the high quality and reliability of our content. We actively conduct original research, shedding light on the job market's intricacies and earning recognition from numerous influential news outlets . Our dedication to delivering expert career advice attracts millions of readers to our blog each year.

Mariusz is a career expert with a background in quality control & economics. With work experience in FinTech and a passion for self-development, Mariusz brings a unique perspective to his role. He’s dedicated to providing the most effective advice on resume and cover letter writing techniques to help his readers secure the jobs of their dreams.

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• Federal Cover Letter Sample
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Last Updated on 12/26/2023

Sample cover letters for government jobs provide clear guidance to help you craft an enticing message to a job recruiter. Your letter should be no more than one page and quickly highlight your best qualifications for the desired position.

A government cover letter template will guide you through the elements that a strong cover letter needs to succeed. In general, the letter must:

• Name the open job position and employer
• Cite technical skills and training
• Refer to the candidate’s strongest work experience.

When writing your letter, keep in mind the priorities of the person who’ll read it. That person does not have much time to look at your letter. The reader’s whole goal will be to spot details that match the job description.

A closer look at a sample letter reveals specific techniques for conveying technical skills and real-world experience.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 The Opening Paragraph
• 1.2 Second Paragraph 
• 1.3 Third Paragraph 
• 1.4 Fourth Paragraph 
• 1.5 The Final Word

Federal Cover Letter Example

In this sample cover letter for a government job , you see a simple format. The job candidate’s contact information is at the top of the page. The salutation addresses the exact person screening job candidates. It’s important to add the exact name when you know it to demonstrate your attention to detail.

The Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph states the job position and department. This immediately communicates to the reader that the candidate took the time to customize the letter for the application.

Second Paragraph 

The 2 nd paragraph recognizes the issues that form the department’s operational purpose. The recruiter will favor candidates who frame the discussion around the employer’s needs. The candidate’s references to an analytic and quantitative background fit with the job’s work duties. In the rest of the paragraph, the job candidate makes strong statements about academic training, international work, and communication skills.

Read on How to Write a Cover Letter for a Government Agency

Third Paragraph 

The 3 rd paragraph strives to portray the candidate as someone who never stops learning. The letter provides information about the candidate’s current participation in an intense graduate training program at a prestigious university. Details about the finance and econometric content of the curriculum sharpen the focus on the candidate’s advanced skills.

Fourth Paragraph 

The 4 th paragraph highlights a person’s international experience. The candidate cites two accomplishments in business and finance. The closing paragraphs describe the person’s process for solving problems while accomplishing goals overseas. The candidate emphasized the creativity and leadership necessary to succeed in the projects. This information shows that the person has the ability to work independently.

The Final Word

The letter finishes with a summary of the person’s technical skills and a desire to serve the public. The strong examples within the sample letter have a high potential to motivate the recruiter to look at the resume.

Need more information? See another government resume template.

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How To Write A Cover Letter For A Government Job (With Examples)

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Find a Job You Really Want In

Wondering how to write an application letter for government employment that puts you ahead of other candidates? When you’re writing an application letter for the government (any branch), the pressure can feel extremely intense.

This article will explain how to write and tailor your cover letter for government positions. We’ll also provide a template and an example government job cover letter for you to use as a reference, and tips on how to add extra umph to your letter.

Key Takeaways

The most important first step in how to write application letter for a job of any kind is to research the job and organization you’re applying to.

Tailoring your cover letter to the government job you’re applying to will help improve your chances of getting to the second round of application reviews.

You should describe your qualifications as well as your passion for the position in your cover letter.

Application letter for government employment: how to

Cover letter for government job example, why it’s important to tailor your cover letter for government jobs, tips for writing a cover letter for a government job, government job cover letter faq.

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Consider the following guidelines when tailoring your cover letter for a government position:

Firstly, research the agency. Every government agency has a different set of mission values and current programs.

Aligning your mindset and goals with those of the agency in your cover letter will improve your chances of receiving an interview .

Refrain from targeting your cover letter towards any particular agency program unless the job listing specifies that’s what you’ll be working on.

Secondly, understand the entire job listing before applying. Missing even a single job requirement when applying for a government position can be disastrous.

Third off, be specific. Rather than vaguely describing your experience , make sure to use numbers and statistics to explain your achievements’ exact results.

Lastly, Be brief. Just as is the case in the private sector, hiring managers will spend very little time reading over your government job cover letter.

Use succinct wording and make sure only to include highly relevant experiences, or you’ll risk the recruiter skimming over key information.

If an individual referred you, either mention them briefly or attach an entirely separate reference letter .

What to include in your government job cover letter

Your cover letter should be composed of the following sections:

First, Header. You should start your cover letter for government job formally, with your contact information, the recipient’s information, and the current date.

Your information should include your name, contact number, and email address.

Second, Introduction. Make sure to address the hiring manager with their appropriate title.

If you’re unable to find the hiring manager’s name , then use a generic professional greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager” or “Dear Sir or Madam.”

Professional experience. Give a brief overview of your qualifications, skills , and experiences as a professional.

Ensure that every item you mention directly addresses the essential requirements and duties stated in the job listing.

Finally, conclusion. Thank the reader of your government cover letter for their time and consideration and reiterate your interest in the position. Express your interest in a way that invites follow-up action on the part of the recruiter.

A government job cover letter example ending may look like the following,

“I would love to discuss with you further how my lengthy experience and abilities could add value to the projects your agency is working on, such as the “Housing For All Initiative.”

To help you see what your cover letter should look like, we’ve included a template and example letter for you to refer to.

Cover letter template for government jobs

Refrain from simply substituting your details directly into the following template.

Instead, observe how the cover letter is structured and incorporates critical elements. Use this knowledge to draft your own document.

[Your full name] [Your phone number] [Your email address] [Current date] [Hiring manager’s full name] [Hiring manager’s mailing address ] Dear [Hiring manager’s full name], I am writing to convey my interest in the [target position] in the [target government agency]. [Align your personal values/objectives to those of the agency.] I believe my [number of years] of experience as a [relevant position] has given me the [key skills] to further your agency’s goal to [agency goal that you strongly relate to]. I have developed a well-rounded skill set through on-the-job experience that matches many of the key qualifications you are looking for, including: [Key qualification from job listing #1] [Key qualification from job listing #2] [Key qualification from job listing #3] [Previous professional experience that proves you meet qualification #1] [Previous professional experience that proves you meet qualification #2] [Previous professional experience that proves you meet qualification #3] I appreciate the time you have taken to read about my professional background. I look forward to further discussing with you how my extensive experience could greatly contribute to programs your agency is working on, such as [example of agency’s programs]. [sign off]

Cover letter for municipality job example

Caleb Smith 888 555 9252 [email protected] March 19, 2020 David Helm U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 451 7th Street. SW Washington , DC 20410 Dear David Helm, I am writing to convey my interest in the program analyst position in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Amidst the economic havoc caused by the coronavirus, I feel compelled to use my expertise to aid those struggling to find shelter. I believe my 12 years of experience as a program analyst has given me the management and technical expertise to further your agency’s goal to improve the quality of housing available to Americans. I have developed a well-rounded skill set through on-the-job experience that matches many of the key qualifications you are looking for, including: Management analysis Team leadership Regulatory compliance During my time as a senior program analyst at TechX, I designed, developed, and supported live-use applications that were utilized by over 80,000 people. I also spearheaded management analyses that identified and performed process enhancements that improved operational efficiency by up to 23%. At TechX, I also oversaw multiple teams composed of members from completely different departments and backgrounds. I used my interpersonal and problem-solving skills to maintain team cohesion, which led us to exceed all project deadlines and expectations given to us over a five-year period. I also developed programs for multiple organizations to analyze their operational procedures for regulatory compliance and generate monthly reports. In one case, I saved the company $124,000 in legal fees through early detection of non-compliant business processes. I averaged an increase in policy compliance by 35%. I appreciate the time you have taken to read about my professional background. I look forward to further discussing with you how my experience could greatly contribute to the programs your agency is working on, such as the “Housing For All Initiative.” Sincerely, Caleb Smith

It’s essential to tweak your cover letter before applying to a government job for a few key reasons:

Stringent minimum requirements. The requirements stated in job listings for private-sector jobs aren’t always absolute.

Recruiters are given the discretion to hire impressive candidates who can compensate for any requirements they miss.

Government jobs differ in this respect, as many criteria are set in stone. You need to emphasize that you meet these base requirements in your cover letter to ensure that your application isn’t automatically dismissed.

KSA keywords. When applying to a government job, applicant tracking software (ATS) will parse your application for the presence of certain knowledge, ability, and skill (KSA) keywords.

Importance of eligibility. Rules and algorithms tightly govern the hiring process for government positions.

Competition. Cover letters aren’t always required for government jobs. However, there are likely many candidates possessing similar qualifications or even internal references .

Not only does a cover letter allow you to expand on your qualifications and cite experiences to support them, but it also gives you a chance to align your values with those of the agency.

This personalized touch helps you stand out from the crowd .

Here are a few tips for making your cover letter really shine:

Show your enthusiasm. Hiring managers don’t just want to see how you’re qualified for the job, they want to see your passion for the position and company as well.

Match your cover letter and resume headers. This shows readers that your documents go together when they’re in a big stack of applications. It also looks professional and polished.

Include a call to action. Close your letter by explaining what you want to happen after the hiring manager reads your cover letter. This could be requesting to discuss the position further, offering to tell them more about your qualifications, or simply inviting them to contact you for more information.

Thank the reader. Add a sentence to your closing paragraph thanking the reader for their time. This ends the letter on a positive note and furthers the good rapport you’re building.

Proofread, proofread, proofread. Never submit a cover letter without checking it over for grammatical errors. If you can, have someone else look over your letter for typos or confusing sentences, but at the least, you should read it out loud to yourself and run it through a grammar check on your computer.

Why is a cover letter important when applying for a government job?

A cover letter for a government job serves as an introduction to your application, allowing you to highlight your qualifications, skills, and experiences that make you a suitable candidate. It offers a personalized touch, demonstrating your genuine interest in the role and organization, which can set you apart from other applicants.

What should I include in my cover letter for a government job?

As we’ve discussed, your cover letter should start with a professional header containing your contact details and the recipient’s information. Begin with a salutation, followed by an engaging opening paragraph that introduces yourself and the specific job you’re applying for.

Highlight your relevant qualifications, experience, and accomplishments in the body of the letter. Make sure to address the key selection criteria mentioned in the job posting. Conclude with a strong closing paragraph expressing your enthusiasm for the position and your readiness for an interview.

Should I use a formal tone in my government job cover letter?

Yes, a formal and professional tone is essential for a government job cover letter. Avoid using slang, contractions, or overly casual language. Your writing should be clear, concise, and focused on showcasing your skills and qualifications. Use proper salutations and follow standard business letter formatting. This demonstrates your respect for the application process and your potential future employer.

Remember, a well-crafted cover letter can greatly enhance your chances of landing a government job interview. Take the time to research, tailor your content, and present yourself in a compelling and professional manner.

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Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

Matt Warzel a President of a resume writing firm (MJW Careers, LLC) with 15+ years of recruitment, outplacement, career coaching and resume writing experience. Matt is also a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) and Certified Internet Recruiter (CIR) with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Marketing Focus) from John Carroll University.

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How to write a federal cover letter?

If you are trying to apply for a government job, you probably have come across this question several times.

Federal government jobs are very lucrative. According to the U.S Bureau of Labour Statistics , federal job opportunities will grow by 6 million by 2029.

However, with these immense growth opportunities, there is enormous competition for federal jobs in the market.

To secure a federal job for yourself, you need to set yourself apart from the crowd.

And a cover letter for federal job can help you do that.

Writing a cover letter is already tricky for some of you!

But writing a federal resume cover letter can be a whole other story.

You need to keep a lot in mind when writing a cover letter for a federal government job.

Would you like to know how?

In this article, we show you:

• What is a federal government cover letter?
• A federal resume cover letter sample
• how to write a cover letter for a federal job?
• Federal cover letter formatting rules
• A checklist for writing a federal government cover letter
• 5 helpful tips to write a federal government cover letter

What is a Federal cover letter?

[ Back to Table of Content ]

A federal cover letter is a professional one-page letter that you need to create when applying for a US federal government job.

Your federal job cover letter will allow you to highlight your skills, experience, and accomplishments to the federal government employer and show them that you are the perfect fit for the job.

A federal government cover letter should not contain all the information on your resume, but it should elaborate the most relevant information about you succinctly.

Why do you need a federal cover letter?

Most federal resumes are one to two pages long and can not address the hiring manager directly. A recruiter only gets 7.4 seconds to look at your application.

A tailored federal cover letter can pique the recruiter’s attention and highlight your most relevant skills and accomplishments to the recruiter. A cover letter for federal job also is a tool to sell your skills to the organization and emphasize how you can benefit the organization.

Federal Cover Letter Sample

Here's a federal cover letter example for you:

Federal Cover Letter - Starting

Your cover letter for federal job is a professional letter. So it needs to follow the rules of a professional cover letter. These rules are : Start with a proper heading Ensure that your federal cover letter heading is appropriately formatted. Make sure this information are on the cover letter heading:

• Contact Number
• Residential location
• Linkedin Profile Link (If you have)
• Job title you are applying for
• Name of the hiring manager
• Title of the hiring manager
• Organization name

Use professional salutation

Your federal job cover letter is a professional letter. So make sure you are addressing the hiring manager professionally. For example:

• Dear Mr. Shaw,
• Dear Dr. Hobbs,
• Dear Ms Moore,

If you don’t know the name of the hiring manager, then you can simply address by,

• Dear Hiring Manager,

But do not use “ To whomever it may concern ,” It’s old school and does not pique the recruiter’s attention.

To know more, you can follow the “ How to address a cover letter ” guide.

Federal cover letter - Introduction

Hiring managers are already frustrated sorting and reading resumes and cover letters all day. Do not bore them further by writing a dull introduction to your federal resume cover letter.

Here are three powerful ways to start your federal cover letter with a bang:

• Start your cover letter mentioning your years of experience.
• Start your cover letter highlighting your professional accomplishments.
• If you are an entry-level professional, start your cover letter with academic achievements, referrals, awards, or anything relevant to the position.

Federal cover letter example - introduction:

10th January 2023 Ms. Carrie Woods Hiring Manager ABC LLC 81, Metro Lane, Colorado Springs, CO

RE: Market Administrator

Dear Ms. Woods, As 3 years experienced Market Administrator with a track record of successfully managing multiple projects with 100+ workers, I am adept at conceptualizing and implementing optimum process efficiency strategies. With a focus on deploying an in-depth understanding of project planning to Improve process efficiency, I am incredibly interested in the profile of Market Administrator at the Federal Agency Department

Note : This is a perfect example of a federal cover letter example. It starts with a powerful statement about your experience. Also, it successfully quantified your accomplishments.

Dear Hiring Manager, I have 3 years of experience in project management. I previously worked as a market administrator in the Federal Milk Distribution department, where I managed multiple projects successfully.

And I am incredibly interested in working with the Federal Agency Department .

Federal cover letter with no experience - example:

Dear Ms. Woods, I am an enterprising ocean conservation advocate pursuing a law degree from Loyola University, adept at legal research and legal writing. I have an excellent understanding of federal laws, including the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. I'm also skilled at the legislative process and advocating for policy changes.

Federal cover letter - Second paragraph

Your federal cover letter second paragraph should highlight your relevant professional experience. Also, do not use vague language to describe your accomplishments.

Be specific with your work experience and quantify your achievements wherever possible.

Furthermore, tailor your cover letter to the federal job you are applying for.

This process is easier than you think.

• Read the job description thoroughly.
• Highlight the responsibilities required for the federal job
• Match the skills and responsibilities with your current skills and experience in the cover letter

It shows the hiring manager that you have done your research and are interested in the job.

Additionally, if you have any career gap in the resume, a cover letter is the perfect opportunity to justify your career gap.

Federal Cover Letter Example- Second paragraph: Right:

In my last stint at the Federal Milk Distribution Department, I have successfully attended 100+ phone calls per month. Additionally, I have converted 300+ analog documents into digital prints and created catalogs by deploying Oracle systems. Apart from that, I was responsible for managing and scheduling meetings for 10+ staff members with 100% efficiency.

Note : Notice that this second paragraph successfully highlights the candidate's key accomplishments and entice recruiters to read the resume.

In my last job, I was responsible for attending calls, managing documents, and scheduling staff members’ meetings.I also have experience in Microsoft Excel and Oracle systems for document management.

Note : This example does not have anything that might pique the hiring manager’s interest to read your cover letter further.

Federal Cover Letter - Ending

You have successfully hooked the hiring manager till the end. Now it’s time to show the recruiter how much you want to work for the organization and end the letter with a powerful CTA.

All federal jobs are most glorious. It takes the right kind of professionals to excel in some jobs. So, you need to project your enthusiasm for the job at the end of your resume and let the recuriter know how much you love working.

Not only that, It's better to directly ask the recuriter for an interview.

However, do not be pushy or needy why asking for an interview like this:

• Please accept my candidature for an interview
• It would be great if you consider me for an interview.

Instead, write this:

• I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my suitability and qualifications with you on call or in person.

Federal cover letter Example - Ending:

Right : I thoroughly believe that my 3 years of experience in meeting scheduling, document preparation, and call handling can bring your organization success. Inspired by its collaborative working style that emphasizes teamwork, trust & tolerance, I consider the Federal Agency to be my most preferred employer.

Enclosed for your consideration is my resume. I’d appreciate the opportunity to further discuss my suitability and qualifications with you on call or in person. Sincerely,

David Johnson

Enclosures: Resume

Wrong : I think my 3 years of experience in meeting scheduling, document management, and call handling will bring success to your organization.

I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best, David Johnson

Note: This is not a proper ending for a federal cover letter. Firstly, you should not use a casual ending salutation in your federal cover letter. Secondly, it does not have a clear CTA to encourage the recruiter to take action. Refer to our federal government cover letter samples above to understand better.

Federal Cover Letter - Formatting

Writing the perfect federal cover letter is not all. To get noticed, you need to make sure that the cover letter is presented to the hiring manager properly.

So, make sure to format your federal cover letter well and proofread it before sending it to the hiring manager.

Here are a couple of tips to professionally format your federal cover letter:

No professional letter should stretch beyond one page. And you need to follow the same rule for your federal cover letter.

Use simple or clear fonts in your federal cover letter. It improves the readability and looks clean.

Some professional fonts are:

• Times New Roman

Note : Make sure to use a font size between 11-14 points

Make sure to have at least 1” margins on all sides of your federal cover letter. If the cover letter exceeds one page, you can shrink the margins to ½* or ¾*, not more than that.

Ensure that your federal cover letter has plenty of whitespaces. It improves readability and helps the cover letter get past the ATS system.

File format

Always send your cover letter in PDF format , not in JPEG, or PNG. Not even DOCS format.

It will help the hiring manager to sort your cover letter effortlessly.

Federal cover letter - Checklist

This checklist will help you write a federal cover letter for yourself.

• Your name, contact information, and location on the header
• Cover letter title
• Hiring manager's name
• Company name
• Company address
• First paragraph - better to start with your years of experience
• The second paragraph - Highlight your relevant key skills and achievements
• Third paragraph - Why you think this job is right for you
• Fifth paragraph - Call to action for an interview
• Closing salutation
• Enclosure - resume

Federal cover letter - Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you write a stellar federal cover letter.

Read the job description thoroughly

Usually, the job description contains all the information about the skills and responsibilities of a federal job. So, always read the job description carefully before writing the cover letter. It will Help you sort out the jobs to find the perfect fit job for you.

You can pick from the skills mentioned in the job descriptions and highlight them throughout your cover letter.

Also, many job descriptions have specific instructions for resumes and cover letters. If you do not read the job description, you will miss these essential instructions, and your resume will never get past the ATS system.

Research the Government agency

Every job is different, and each job takes the right mindset and love to excel in it. Your cover letter allows you to showcase that your skills and passion for the job lies with the government agency’s vision and mission.

For example, if you apply for an Environmental Specialist position, you can showcase your passion for the environment by mentioning some volunteer work you have done in the past.

Create specific cover letters for each job

Many candidates create generic cover letters for each job profile. But for a federal job, you need to tailor each cover letter for the specific job you are applying for. You can easily do this by creating a master cover letter. Whenever you need to apply for a job, tweak the master cover letter concerning the job description skills and responsibilities.

Keep your Federal Cover Letter to-the-point

The hiring manager only has a couple of seconds to look at your cover letter. So, make sure to keep your federal cover letter concise and to the point. Do not exceed one page, and try to wrap up your cover letter within 3-4 paragraphs.

Proofread your cover letters

Do not send your cover letter to the recruiter right away. Always proofread your cover letters and do a proper grammar and spelling check before sending it to the recruiters. It’s best to take expert opinion to create your federal cover letter before sending it to the recruiter.

Hiration Online Resume Builder Service can help you do that.

Online Resume Builder

These are the features of Online Resume Builder:

• Option to save unlimited resumes
• Intuitive next text suggestion
• Auto bold feature
• 20+ Cover letter designs
• LIVE resume score
• JD-resume matcher
• Full rich-text editor
• Unlimited PDF downloads
• 1-click design change
• A sharable link
• LIVE editor Go to our Online Resume Builder and choose from 20+ federal cover letter templates to create a professional cover letter for yourself!

Key Takeaways

With that, we have come to the end of this blog. Let’s see some of the key takeaways from the blog:

• Always format your federal cover letter professionally. Keep it on a single page, and ensure to have 1” margins on all sides.
• Start your cover letter introduction with a powerful statement such as your years of experience.
• Highlight your best achievements relevant to the job on the second paragraph of the cover letter and include keywords in this section
• Explain why you are the right fit for the job in the third paragraph
• Do some research on the organization and write something that matches your personality with the company mission in the last paragraph.
• End your cover letter for federal job with a CTA for an interview
• Do not forget to enclose your resume in the federal government cover letter.

If you want to create a federal cover letter, go to Hiration Resume Builder tool and choose from 20+ cover letter templates to create a professional federal cover letter for you.

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How to Tailor Your Cover Letter to a Government Job

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How to Write a Cover Letter for a Government Job

Want to improve your chances of getting a government job? Start with a flawless cover letter. In this guide, you will gain valuable insights on how to write it.

The public sector implies decent retirement and medical benefits, a low layoff rate, and flexible public officials’ flexible vacation policies. These factors encourage many specialists to start or continue their careers in one of the federal departments. However, the public sector still lags behind the private one in the number of available vacancies. It marks fierce competition for every position where your successful employment depends not only on your qualifications but also on your ability to prove your professional value against other candidates. In this case, a cover letter for a government job is your first and “must-have” self-presentation tool. To help you make this document flawless, we will discuss its main parts, important requirements, and common mistakes.

What to Include in a Cover Letter for a Federal Job

A federal cover letter is an application document required for a comprehensive assessment of a candidate by the government hiring committee. Unlike a resume, it has a narrative form that showcases your writing, presentation, and prioritization skills. This paper has a clear structure that consists of 4 main sections.

This part consists of your and the recipient's contact information. Your contact information should include your name, date, address, phone number, and email. Recipient details include their name, the name of the federal agency or department you are applying to, and the city council's address.

Introduction

Start this section by greeting the recipient. Stick to a formal tone and keep it short. For this purpose, use a general greeting template such as "Dear Mister (Last Name)" or "Dear Mrs or Miss (Last Name)."

In the second part of your intro, make it clear what role you are applying for. Moreover, it is a great place to start your self-presentation. You can indicate how many years you have worked in the industry or mention your professional achievement. It will get the HR manager's attention at the start of the letter.

The central piece of your appeal has two paragraphs. It is where you must uncover your strengths and prove yourself as a qualified and promising candidate. The main difference between a federal government cover letter and a similar document for the private sector is the mandatory indication of your work experience. Therefore, use the first paragraph to mention 1-2 previous employers, your contributions to the companies' overall goals, and the skills that helped you succeed in your last position. The second paragraph may be about your potential employer. Tell why you chose a particular federal agency, what attracts you to public service, or how you can benefit citizens.

Final Paragraph

In the final part of your letter, you can thank the recipient for the attention to your candidacy and the time spent on reviewing your application. Also, mention that you have attached a copy of your resume and express your hope for productive cooperation. After that, use one of the business farewell phrases such as "Best regards," or "Sincerely," and leave your name and signature at the very end of the document.

Why You Need a Cover Letter for Federal Job

Forbes reports that 36% of hiring managers start evaluating candidates with a cover letter, and a whopping 83% see it as a powerful foundation for decision-making. These statistics speak volumes. Nevertheless, we have prepared additional weighty arguments to convince you of the importance of a cover letter.

• The city hall's hiring committee receives dozens of resumes, ranging from three to five pages. Given the high flow of candidates, the hiring manager will not look through your entire long-read to discover your strengths. The cover letter for a local government position, in turn, focuses their attention immediately on your main advantages. Therefore, your chances of being noticed and duly appreciated are significantly increased.
• While a govt cover letter should demonstrate your experience, it still has more flexible content requirements than a resume. Therefore, you can add any information that you think is valuable to a potential employer and can tilt the balance in your favor. Have you clearly defined your mission as a civil servant? Share it! Do your work style or personality traits make you an effective employee? Mention them. These characteristics set you apart from other candidates , and the cover letter allows you to tell about them.
• A resume contains a list of your skills, but a cover letter may explain why they are essential for your chosen role. This way, the federal hiring manager will see that you understand your job’s nature and the factors that affect your success as a professional. Also, correctly selected and presented skills will emphasize your analytical thinking and ability to get priorities right, which will add extra points.
• According to the same Forbes article, less than 40% of applicants attach cover letters even if they are mandatory, as in federal job applications. Some of them simply forget about this document, while others still doubt its importance. In this case, the cover letter is your real chance to prove your responsible approach. Rest assured, potential employers and hiring managers always appreciate candidates who follow instructions and go the extra mile. It confirms their genuine interest and commitment, which is vital for any organization.

How to Write a Cover Letter for a State Job

Despite the clear benefits of a cover letter, you shouldn't think that any text improves your chances by default. Your success in the application process still depends on the quality of its content and format. Therefore, we have collected all the core requirements in one guide.

• Length. The required cover letter length is one page or 200-300 words. This volume is enough to state your main strengths and keep the document to the point and not tire the recruiter.
• Font. Rest assured, if the recruiter must peer into every word and spend time parsing your text, your cover letter will be tossed aside. To avoid this, use simple fonts like Arial, Georgia, Times New Roman, or Verdana to make your document easy to read. Please note these same fonts are a good choice for your resume. Therefore, feel free to choose one standard for both papers to ensure their integrity.
• Design. Some candidates try to grab the hiring committee's attention with an offbeat or fanciful design of their paper. But this is a failed tactic. First, bright colors or intricate patterns distract attention from the essence of your message. Second, overly creative solutions may give the idea that you are trying to compensate for your poor self-presentation. You should prepare an official document where the quality of your content is the best puller. Therefore, stick to a business style in its design.
• Customized content. Your entire story should reflect the position you are applying for and the federal agency you want to join. For this purpose, collect as much information as possible about the desired department from available sources. What is its mission? What is their common goal? What projects are they doing right now? You can use the answers to these and other questions in your self-presentation, thereby showing your awareness. Also, re-read the job description and write down the basic requirements for candidates, be it work experience, hard and soft skills, etc. It is these points that will form the basis of your cover letter. The customized text shows that you prepared a document for a specific position and did not send it to every available vacancy.
• Accurate data and numbers. Numbers and data grab attention against the straight text and increase the credibility of your message. You can use them when presenting your achievements such as "Reduced department expenses by 15%" and when describing your duties in a previous position such as "Managed a team of 25 people."

Sample Cover Letter for a Government Job

To solidify the gained knowledge, we have prepared federal cover letter templates for you. They will help you trace the structure of the document and the features of building a job-winning message.

Common Mistakes in Writing a Cover Letter for a Federal Job

Given the high competition for every federal job, your cover letter's mistakes can be a compelling reason to weed out your candidacy. So check the top failures and avoid them when creating your copy.

• Focus on each previous post. Your paper really should reveal your industry experience. But it is equally essential to apply common sense when implementing this idea. You should not list all the positions you have held to show your career path. It repeats your resume, and therefore the recruiter may think that you are wasting their time. Also, it takes up a lot of space on a one-page document. Thus, you are depriving yourself of the opportunity to discuss your other strengths that the recruiter will not find on your resume.
• List your responsibilities. The list of duties does not prove your expertise, much less your success as a specialist. Therefore, when describing your experience, focus on your achievements. You may have advanced to a leadership position in a short time frame, exceeded performance indicators, or formed a strong team. All this proves that you did not just fulfill your duties, but knew your stuff and did your job well.
• Self-absorption. Every employer wants to know that you aim to reveal your potential in their particular team and contribute to their specific organization. Therefore, if you just list your merits, it does not explain the reasons for your application and does not show how you can benefit the department and society in general. To put things right, devote one paragraph to the federal agency, its mission, goals, and values, and thereby prove your commitment.
• Speak in generalities. "I am a highly qualified employee," "I am a strong team player," or "I have achieved great results in this field." These and similar statements sound unfounded if concrete facts and figures do not support them. In this case, the employer sees only your self-assessment of your activities, which does not encourage them to invite you for an interview.
• Touch on the inappropriate themes. A cover letter is not the best place to reveal the reasons for your dismissal from your previous post, financial expectations, and personal circumstances that prompted you to change jobs. You will have the opportunity to discuss these topics in an interview. But first, you still need to get it. Therefore, focus only on the most useful and beneficial information about yourself.

Conclusions

Selecting candidates is no less complicated than finding a job. The hiring committee must review hundreds of similar resumes and find the one right person. In this regard, a federal cover letter is incredibly valuable as it demonstrates your unique personality, priorities, and motives. Thus, it helps you promote your candidacy and the recruiter to make the right choice and hire an employee worthy of a civil servant’s title. Now you know how to make this document perfect. Your current task is to put this knowledge into practice and help the recruiter to notice you.

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Federal Cover Letter Example

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Starting a Federal cover letter should be done professionally and formally. Begin by addressing the hiring manager directly, if their name is known. If not, use a formal salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager". Then, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. It's also beneficial to mention where you found the job posting. In the first paragraph, briefly explain why you're interested in the role and the organization. Remember, Federal jobs often require a high level of commitment and dedication, so it's important to convey your enthusiasm and understanding of the role's responsibilities from the start.

The best way for Federals to end a cover letter is by expressing gratitude and showing enthusiasm for the potential opportunity. A closing such as, "Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to serve in this role and contribute to [Organization's Name]." This shows appreciation and interest. Then, sign off professionally with "Sincerely" or "Respectfully," followed by your full name. It's also important to include your contact information after your name. This ending is effective as it leaves a positive impression, reiterates your interest, and makes it easy for the hiring manager to contact you.

When Federals, or federal employees, are writing a cover letter, they should include the following: 1. Personal Information: This includes your name, contact information, and the date. 2. Salutation: Address the hiring manager by name if it's known. If not, use a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager." 3. Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and mention the position you're applying for. 4. Experience and Skills: This is the main body of your cover letter. Discuss your relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments. As a federal employee, you should highlight your understanding of federal regulations, policies, and procedures. If you have experience in a specific federal department, mention that as well. 5. Connection to the Job: Explain why you're interested in the job and how your skills and experiences make you a good fit. For federal jobs, it's important to show that you understand the mission and values of the federal agency you're applying to. 6. Conclusion: Thank the hiring manager for considering your application. Express your interest in discussing your qualifications further in an interview. 7. Signature: End with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your name. Remember, federal jobs often require a high level of detail and adherence to specific guidelines. Make sure your cover letter is free of errors, clearly written, and directly addresses the qualifications and responsibilities listed in the job posting. It's also important to use keywords from the job posting, as many federal agencies use automated systems to screen applications.

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Tips for Applying for Federal Jobs

Follow the instructions in the “How to Apply” section of each announcement. Instructions will guide you through the application process, providing you detailed information on the questions, forms and format that must be addressed and used to capture your qualifications for the job.

The documents must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on the vacancy closing date. Warning: If you submit a document using the same document title, the 2nd submission will OVERWRITE the 1st submission. Also, do not upload password-protected documents.

Cover Letters are not mandatory and will not be used to verify experience, but may be submitted.

Resumes are required - provide a resume either by creating one in USAJOBS or uploading one from your computer and USAJOBS profile. To receive full consideration for relevant and specialized experience, please list the month, year, and the number of work hours worked for the experience listed on your resume.  We also suggest that you preview the vacancy questions, and confirm that your resume supports your question responses.

Unofficial Transcript(s) (in English) - If you are using education as a basis for qualifying for this position, you must submit all applicable academic transcripts demonstrating that you meet the qualifying educational requirements (ex. BA/BS, MA, JD, Ph.D., etc.).  If specific coursework is required to qualify, you must supply an unofficial transcript from each academic institution in which the required courses were taken in order to receive credit. If your education was completed at a foreign college or university, you must show comparability to education received in accredited educational institutions in the United States and comparability to applicable minimum course work requirements for this position. Learn more about Evaluation of Foreign Education .

More information regarding resumes (from Careers at DOL – Tips for Writing your Federal resume ):

One size never fits all. As you apply for jobs, tailor your resume to the position’s requirements. Study the job opportunity announcement and emphasize the parts of your work history that match the qualification requirements listed there. It is important to portray your knowledge and skills as a match to the requirements of the position and demonstrate the ability to do the job. This is easy to do when you include your results, achievements and accomplishments. Minimize the use of technical jargon or specialized terminology (e.g., military abbreviations) in your resume.

Unlike resumes used in the private sector, federal resumes require additional information. For each past job, give the standard information found in most resumes. Your federal resume should include the following:

• Job announcement number , job title , and job grade of the job for which you are applying
• Your full name , mailing address , day and evening phone numbers and home e-mail .
• Country of citizenship , if different from U.S.
• Veterans – Ensure that you attach or upload supporting documentation (e.g., DD214 or Statement of Service if still on Active Duty; SF-15, Application for 10-point preference; and Disability Rating Letter of 30% or more from the VA, if applicable).
• Peace Corps / AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteers – If you are a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, you will need to provide your Description of Service (DOS) to claim non-competitive eligibility for federal jobs. AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers
• Persons with Disabilities (Schedule A) – To verify eligibility for employment under the Schedule A hiring authority, you must provide proof of disability issued by a licensed medical professions, a licensed vocational rehabilitation specialist, or any federal agency, state agency, or an agency of the District of Columbia, or U.S. territory that issues or provides disability benefits. Contact the Department’s Selective Placement Coordinators for help with hiring and accommodation requests.
• Veterans – Keep in mind that your military training may count towards qualifications. Use your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) document (DD Form 2586) to document your training and education.
• Begin with your current position and list all other positions held in chronological order.
• State the job title, starting and ending dates ( including month and year ), prior employer's name and address (or write "self-employed," if that applies), and major duties and accomplishments. Include any positions temporarily held.
• Show the average number of hours worked per week or simply state "full-time"; salary or wage earned; supervisor's name, address and telephone number; and whether your most recent supervisor may be contacted.
• Veterans - Avoid using military job titles or occupational codes. Instead, look at what you did using your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) as a starting point. Employers prefer proven performers, so make sure you know what employers are looking for in comparison to your military work experience.
• Indicate if your current supervisor can be contacted
• Job-related training courses (title and year).
• self-management skills refer to the way you manage yourself on the job (e.g., dependable, resourceful, etc.);
• functional skills are the skills you use on the job or have used in previous jobs (e.g., operate equipment, supervise, analyze, etc.); and
• technical skills relate to specific skills required to perform a described task (e.g., computer programming, accounting, sales, etc.)
• Current job-related certificates and licenses - Make sure you understand the licensure and certification requirements for your job objective.
• Job-related honors, awards, special accomplishments , leadership activities, memberships, or publications.

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Government cover letter example

Stable, high-paying, secure and abundant, government jobs are highly coveted. From the federal to the state to the local level, government jobs are numerous and relatively recession-proof. This writing guide will walk you through the steps necessary to write a government cover letter that will help put you on the path to one of these sought-after jobs. 

What we’ll discuss in this guide, along with our government cover letter example:

• The best format for a government cover letter
• The six components of a successful cover letter
• Common mistakes you need to avoid

Resume.io is a leading global provider of job-search advice, and you can find a lot more tips in our 125+ occupation-specific cover letter examples and writing guides. 

Best format for a government cover letter

To format a government cover letter properly, first you need to get the structure right. Cover letters should be one page only, and must include five essential elements:

• The greeting / salutation
• The cover letter intro
• The middle paragraphs (body of the letter)
• The ending paragraph of your cover letter (conclusion and call-to-action)

Aside from the basic structure, proper formatting also includes issues of design and layout. Your cover letter should look as good as it reads. This means choosing a professional font, including adequate margins and leaving enough white space so your page doesn’t look too packed. More formatting advice can be found in our comprehensive guide to cover letter writing.

Here’s a government cover letter example that you might use as inspiration for your own: 

Dear Mr. Kallteith,

Fluency in four Asian languages has ensured me a varied career, both in commercial and governmental settings. I spent ten years working with the U.S. Government as an attache in Hong Kong and upon my move back to Washington, I am seeking employment in the state department as an interpreter and translator.

I have high-level bilateral interpreting experience, have participated in over 40 missions and trade visits to the Far East and am deeply aware of the cultural issues that sometimes occur in U.S. – Far East communication. I help to fill in the gaps of what has not been said in sometimes overly-formal diplomatic language. I won an award for my transcreation work of the recent cultural roadmap strategy and have translated over 750,000 words of government documents and correspondence.

My background prior to my translation career was in PR, so I am used to analyzing press releases, writing succinct analytical texts and using the fewest words possible to convey the desired message. I know that NGO outreach is a key activity for your near-term strategy, and my previous work for a number of Taiwanese NGOs on their international communications teams will stand me in good stead with that activity. My PR role offered a deeper insight into the cultural norms of the region and continues to offer a background to my simultaneous interpreting work.

My previous boss is currently working in the department and is happy to offer an internal recommendation. She alerted me to the possibility of the role, and I would be delighted to come in for an interview to find out more.

Sarah Galterley

There’s a vast variety of government jobs out there, but whatever your specialty, take some time to review other cover letter samples and writing guides for your specialization:

• Federal cover letter sample
• Administration cover letter sample
• Internship cover letter example

Cover letter header

The cover letter header, which used to be known as a letterhead, is the section at the top where you put your name, occupation, address, phone number and email. Do not include a photo, at least for U.S. government jobs, as the government’s own guidelines instruct applicants to leave photos out . 

You can save a lot of time – and sidestep potential formatting errors – by using a professionally designed cover letter template as a framework for your header.

Cover letter greeting

The ideal greeting for a government cover letter addresses the appropriate hiring manager by name: Dear Mr. White, Dear Ms. Greene, etc. Many job listings will not tell you the name of the hiring manager, but it’s always a good idea to try to find out if possible.

Especially in government applications, you may not know who to address. If it’s not possible, then go with a generic greeting like “Dear Hiring Manager.”

Here’s a greeting from our adaptable cover letter example:

Cover letter introduction

The introduction of your government cover letter should get off to a strong start, making a compelling opening case for your candidacy. Your first paragraph may briefly mention your experience, education, training and/or special skills – whatever your most impressive qualifications are. 

Avoid flabby language or cliches, and try to hook the reader immediately so that s/he keeps reading. See our sample cover letter introduction below.

Cover letter middle part (body)

The middle part of your government cover letter, known as the body, needs to provide the “meat and potatoes” of your case. If you have experience in your field, lead with that – not just mentioning where you’ve worked before, but how you brought value to your previous roles. 

Be specific, using facts and figures where possible. Consider relating a brief anecdote about how you solved a thorny problem in a past job. If your educational credentials are impressive, or if you have certifications that are important in your field, mention those here as well. 

Also, try to say something here about why you want this particular job and not just any job. And try to focus on the employer’s needs, not your own, by showing how your contribution will benefit the agency to which you’re applying. See the cover letter sample below for ideas on how to craft a strong body for your letter.

In closing: How to conclude a government cover letter

Your government cover letter conclusion should remind the agency of the key qualities that will make you an excellent hire. It should also include a call to action – you want the recipient to do something as a result of your letter, not just set it aside. 

Let the reader know that you look forward to a response and that you’re always available for an interview or even an informal talk on the phone.

Close with “Sincerely,” “All my best” or another appropriate sign-off. Add a space below that and type your name. Here’s an acceptable conclusion from our government cover letter sample:

Key takeaways

• You can’t afford to make any typos or other writing mistakes in your cover letter, so proofread carefully or find an editor to review it.
• Do not send the same cover letter to all employers. Target each employer specifically, addressing its needs and showing how you will help with its mission.
• Avoid unattractive design and improper formatting. Check out the cover letter sample above for ideas on how to create a great layout, that way you can build your own cover letter. 

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A Complete Writing Guide for Government Job Cover Letter [+ Examples & Tips]

A cover letter is an essential element of a job application package. Whether it be for a position in the private sector or public service, a cover letter can mean the difference between landing a job and being rejected!

Entering public service is a gratifying and exciting career path, and a well-written cover letter is required when applying for a government job. A strong public service cover letter elevates your resume and provides key information that can be vital for your employment! 

Are you looking to take the first steps to serve your country? If so, you need an exceptional government cover letter to go alongside your application. This article will break down the parts of a cover letter for a government job, and will provide everything you need to know to write a cover letter that will land you in the civil service job of your dreams!

Table of Contents:

How to Write a Cover Letter for a Government Job

Cover letter example for government jobs, tips for writing a cover letter for federal job.

Writing a cover letter to apply for a government job is a multi-step process. Every cover letter should tell a narrative or story, and your cover letter for a government position should depict the development of your skills and character, and show that you have the potential to succeed in the position you are applying for. This section will outline the steps that one should take when writing a cover letter for a government position.

Step 1: Read the job posting carefully

The first step to an exemplary cover letter for a government position, as with any other, begins before you write a word! Prior to writing your government job cover letter, read the job posting and become intimately aware of the exact roles that your position will require. 

Government offices seek candidates who are professionally competent and highly skilled. Before writing your cover letter for the government position, ensure that your skills, qualifications, and experiences are aligned with that listed on the job posting!

Step 2: Research the government agency you are applying for

The next step in the preparation to write your government position cover letter is to familiarize yourself with the government agency you are applying to join. You should understand the mission and values of the agency, as well as the scope of its operations. Bear in mind that your government cover letter must reflect your knowledge on these matters, so discovering what and where your interests lay is important as well.

Agencies look for candidates whose mindsets and ideals align with their own. Your public service cover letter should reflect and communicate this to best draw the attention of the recruiter reading!

Step 3: Write a complete cover letter header

It is finally time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and begin writing your cover letter for the government position you want to apply for! The first section of your government cover letter should be, like all others, the cover letter header. Cover letters for government positions follow the standard cover letter format .

Here is a template of a cover letter header that you can use as a reference to write your own government position cover letter.

[Your Name]  [Your position]  [Your address]  [Your telephone number]  [Your email address]

[Name of Hiring Manager]  [Job title]  [Government office address]

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mrs.][Hiring Manager’s name] ,

📚Further reading: Should You Use “To Whom It May Concern” for Cover Letter Salutations?

Step 4: Introduce yourself and mention your reason for writing

In the opening paragraph of your government position cover letter, you should endeavor to make a good first impression. Introduce yourself and your motivation for writing. The recruiter reading your government position cover letter may choose whether to continue reading simply based on the first paragraph, so being memorable is important!

💡Pro tip:  A great way to open a cover letter for a government job is by briefly mentioning your experience and how it ties into your candidacy for the position you are applying for.

Here is a template of an introductory paragraph for a cover letter for a public service position that you can use as a guide to writing your own:

I am writing to formally express my interest in the [Job position] at the [Government office] as the position appears perfectly aligned with my personal and professional developmental goals. For years, I have dreamed of being able to serve my country in any capacity. As an experienced professional working in [field of expertise] for [years of experience] , I believe I can apply my skills and qualifications to add immediate value to the [Government office] .

Step 5: Explain the qualifications that make you a great candidate

Moving on to the body paragraph of your government job cover letter. This section of your government position cover letter is where you truly sell yourself. Elaborate on your qualifications, skills, and experiences and prove to the recruiter that you would be an asset and valuable addition to the agency. 

Importantly, avoid arbitrarily including experiences in your government job cover letter. Rather, focus on relevant experiences and skills that can be directly applied to both impress the recruiter and excel in the position you are applying to!

Finally, avoid beating around the bush when writing your government position cover letter! Cover letters should be brief - no more than a page -  as recruiters have hundreds, even thousands of letters to read. If your letter does not hit the mark immediately or is too long, it will be skipped. 

Here is a template that you can use as a guide to writing the body section of your public service cover letter:

I hold a [most recent degree in a relevant area] . Throughout my studies and professional career, I have maintained the highest standards of [soft skills] , the extent of which can be measured by my key accomplishments over the years:

• [2-3 relevant key accomplishments that demonstrate your competence]

I believe that my [2-3 soft skills] , coupled with my knowledge of [1-2 hard skills] make me a competitive candidate that can meet and exceed the demands of the [Job title] .

Step 6: Reemphasize your genuine interest in the role and your motivation

Your government position cover letter should aim to emphasize your genuine interest in the position you are applying for! As you prepare to end your civil service cover letter, ensure that you express your genuine interest in the position and drive home that your application stems from a vested interest in public service. 

While the origin of your interest is highly personal, you can use this template as a guide to writing this section of your federal cover letter:

My passion for public service has impacted and influenced every academic and professional decision I have made in the last decade. I wish to [state what you want to achieve through the position you are applying for] .

Step 7: Close with an invitation and give your contact details

And now we come to the end of your civil service cover letter. Appropriately end your government cover letter by first thanking the recruiter for taking their valuable time in reading your cover letter. Then, be proactive in including a strong call to action indicating your enthusiasm for the position and furthering the application process. 

At this stage in your government cover letter, it could be a good idea to include your contact information. This is for the sake of the recruiter who, by this point, would have decided whether or not you are a viable candidate for the position. Having your contact information at the end of your government cover letter makes it more convenient for them to file your information away for later use!

Here is a template of how you can include your contact information in your government position cover letter:

Thank you for your evaluation and consideration. Please take a moment to review my attached resume and recommendations. I can be contacted at any time via telephone [telephone number] or email [email address] should the need for further clarification or documentation arise. I look forward to sitting with you to fully discuss how I can apply my [knowledge in relevant topics] to best fulfill the demands of the [Job title] .

Here is an example of a general government cover letter to give you an idea of its format in practice:

Application Letter for Government Employment

Adam Sunders Political Analyst 123 Road, Wi 12345 (123) 123-456-7890  [email protected]  

September 16th, 2022

Paul Greyson Recruiting Officer State Department  2201 C St NW,  Washington, DC 20520

Dear Mr. Greyson, 

I am writing to express my interest in the Political Analyst Position at the State Department as the position appears to be perfectly aligned with my personal and professional goals and interests. As an experienced professional with an expertise concentration in Southeast Asian Politics, I have long dreamed of serving my country and working toward expanding US foreign policy. I believe that my skills and qualifications make me an ideal candidate for the Associate Analyst position. 

With 7 years of experience as a political commentator for CNN and other media houses, and a doctorate in Southeast Asian political development, my education and professional experiences have laid the groundwork for my meticulous attention to detail, a results-driven work ethic, and a burning desire to apply my skills to serve my country. My career can be highlighted by my key accomplishments:

• Authored a book on the PRC Belt and Road Initiative, which sold over 200,000 copies in the US 
• Provided political commentary for major US media houses, and presented keynote presentations on Indo-Pacific politics and its relevance to US foreign policy objectives

Thank you for your time and evaluation. Please take a moment to review my attached resume and references. I can be contacted at any time via my email [email protected] should the need for any supplemental documentation or clarification arise. I look forward to sitting down with you to discuss in further detail how my concentration in Southeast Asian politics can help propel US policy in the region. 

Sincerely,  Adam Sunders

Now that you know the government position cover letter format, let’s go over some tips for writing a stunning federal cover letter.

Tip 1: Include specific information

While it is generally a good exercise to have a general format cover letter, ensure that you tailor your cover letter to the government position and government office you are applying to. This includes the desired skills, experience level, and qualifications for the position. 

For example, imagine you are writing a cover letter for a government office position at the Foreign Service and the Department of Education. You (luckily) possess the necessary skills for each one. However, when you apply you include the skills needed for the Department of Education in your Foreign Service cover letter. Disaster, right? Such a mistake can cost you your job!

Tip 2: Follow the descriptions written in the job post

When writing your government position cover letter, the information included in the job listing is gold! You will find everything you need to know about the position you are applying for and the essential information you will need when writing your government job cover letter. This information includes, but is not limited to, the desired skills, experience level, and qualifications; the address and contact information of the government office/recruiter; and the deadlines and application stages that need to be met and passed. 

Tip 3: Use the correct file format

As a rule of thumb, you should submit any formal document in the .pdf format; a cover letter for a government position is no exception. Submitting your civil service cover letter as a .pdf reduces the possibility that it will be tampered with, and ensures that there will be no changes in format/printing when it is received and processed by the recruiter.

Tip 4: Use appropriate text formatting

Your cover letter for a government position should follow the standard cover letter format. This includes a professional font and font size (11-12 pt. Times New Roman is best), and one-inch margins around the page.

📚Further reading: 10 Best Resume Fonts for ATS-friendly Resumes (Correct Font Size, Type, Style)

Tip 5: Create a draft, edit and proofread

Thoroughly proofread, revise, and edit your government cover letter as many times as necessary. Oftentimes, it is difficult to find your own mistakes, so asking someone to help you read and critique your cover letter could be beneficial! Whatever you choose, ensure that the final public service cover letter you submit is error-free and is written in the correct tone and format.

📚Further reading:  Federal Resume Guide with Examples

And that’s that! You should, at this point, be well on your way to writing the government cover letter that is sure to land you the job of your dreams! Public service is a career of dedication and sacrifice; your government position cover letter should reflect your eagerness and enthusiasm to tackle your country’s problems head-on and be the solution to the problems people face! 

When writing your public service cover letter, remember to keep these points in mind:

• A cover letter for a government position should keep with the appropriate cover letter text and body format, maintain a suitable tone, and properly reflect the qualities that are desired by the office you are applying to.
• Brevity is important. Your civil service cover should express all necessary ideas within one page, as to not over-burden the recruiter reading your letter!
• Consider the position and agency/office you are applying for. The same position in a different office may have completely different obligations, so study up on the government position before writing your cover letter!

With Cake, an online resume builder , we provide you with hundreds of free resume templates and various resume format examples that help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!

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--- Originally written by Alexander Coye ---

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Professional Government Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your government cover letter must immediately highlight your dedication to public service. It is essential to convey your understanding of the department's objectives. Demonstrate your ability to address the unique challenges faced by the government. Clearly showcase your relevant experience and skills that align with the job's responsibilities.

Cover Letter Guide

Government Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Government Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Starting your government job application can be daunting, especially when you realize a cover letter is required. Crafting a cover letter that stands out is about more than rehashing your resume; it's your chance to share a defining professional achievement in a compelling narrative. Striking the right balance between formality and originality, while keeping it concise, can be tricky. Here's how to convey your story effectively within the one-page limit, avoiding the usual clichés.

• Including all the must-have paragraphs in your structure for an excellent first impression;
• Learning how to write individual sections from industry-leading cover letter examples;
• Selecting the best accomplishment to tell an interesting and authority-building professional story;
• Introducing your profile with personality, while meeting industry standards.

And, if you want to save some time, drag and drop your government resume into Enhancv's AI, which will assess your profile and write your job-winning cover letter for you.

If the government isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Government resume guide and example
• Customs Broker cover letter example
• Grant Writer cover letter example
• Policy Analyst cover letter example
• Canvasser cover letter example
• Regulatory Affairs cover letter example
• Federal cover letter example
• Military cover letter example

Government cover letter example

SAMUEL MOORE

Dallas, Texas

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Demonstrating a clear alignment between the applicant's experience and the organization's focus can enhance the relevance of the application. For instance, highlighting experience in policy analysis and stakeholder engagement conveys the applicability of skills to the economic development focus of the hiring organization.
• Providing specific examples of past achievements, like influencing pivotal policy decisions and authoring policy briefs that led to economic initiatives, showcases the applicant's capabilities and provides tangible evidence of their competence and success.
• Expressing a strong familiarity and admiration for the hiring organization's work shows the applicant has done their research and is genuinely interested in contributing to its missions — in this case, noting the organization's use of data-driven insights for policymaking.

What should your government cover letter look like - formatting and organizing your information

Have you ever wondered what are the must-have sections you need to include in your government cover letter? Our builder sets those up for you with:

• Header - dedicated to your contact information, the role you're applying for, and the date (don't forget to include your name);
• Greeting and opening paragraph - to create a personalized and memorable experience for recruiters;
• Body paragraph - emphasizing your skill set and knowledge that aligns with the role and helps you to stand out;
• Closing paragraph - leaving a great impression and ending with an optional signature.

Use a cover letter template to discover the best formatting for your government cover letter: that is single-spaced paragraphs and wrapping your content in a one-inch margin.

Ensure that both your resume and government cover letter are in the same font . Stand apart from the crowd by using modern, yet simple fonts, like Chivo and Rubik, instead of the overused Arial and Times New Roman.

Did you know that the Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't be assessing your government cover letter? Instead, submit your profile in PDF to recruiters to keep the same formatting and the design intact.

The top sections on a government cover letter

• Header: Include your contact information, date, and the employer's contact information, which demonstrates professionalism and makes it easy for the recruiter to contact you for follow-up.
• Opening Greeting: Address the letter to a specific individual if possible, showing respect and a personal touch rather than using a generic salutation.
• Introduction: Briefly state the position you are applying for and mention how you learned about the opportunity, which helps the recruiter quickly identify the job in question and the source of your application.
• Body: Highlight relevant skills, experience, and achievements that specifically tie to the requirements of the government role, demonstrating that you have done your research and understand what the job entails.
• Closing: Express your enthusiasm for the opportunity to serve in a public capacity, reiterate your suitability for the role, and politely invite further discussion, showing your commitment to the position and eagerness to move forward in the selection process.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

Understanding of public policies and legislative processes: Important to navigate and influence policy direction, ensuring the work aligns with legislative requirements and strategic government objectives.

Knowledge of government protocols and procedures: Essential for efficiently navigating the bureaucracies and understanding the unique operational dynamics of the public sector.

Strong commitment to public service and ethics: Recruiters look for a genuine interest in serving the public interest and the ability to uphold high ethical standards, prioritizing the common good over personal gain.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills: Critical for drafting clear and concise government documentation, policy briefs, and for effectively communicating with various stakeholders, including the public and government officials.

Experience in stakeholder and community engagement: Shows the ability to consult with and involve multiple parties, facilitating collaboration and building consensus on government initiatives.

Proven problem-solving and analytical abilities: Necessary for developing solutions to complex public sector challenges and for informed decision-making based on careful analysis and evidence.

Kick off your government cover letter: the salutation or greeting

When writing your government cover letter, remember that you're not writing for some complex AI or robot, but for actual human beings.

And recruiters, while on the lookout to understand your experience, would enjoy seeing a cover letter that is tailored to the role and addresses them . Personally.

So, if you haven't done so, invest some time in finding out who's the hiring manager for the role you're applying to. A good place to start would be LinkedIn and the corporate website.

Alternatively, you could also get in touch with the company to find out more information about the role and the name of the recruiter.

If you haven't met the hiring manager, yet, your government cover letter salutation should be on a last-name basis (e.g. "Dear Mr. Donaldson" or "Dear Ms. Estephan").

A good old, "Dear HR Professional" (or something along those lines) could work as your last resort if you're struggling to find out the recruiter's name.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Job Title] Hiring Committee,
• Dear [Department Name] Team,
• Dear Director [Last Name],
• Dear [Job Title] Search Committee,

Get creative with your government cover letter introduction

Recruiters are going to assess plenty of candidate profiles for the role. Thus, anything you do to stand out will win you brownie points.

Use your government cover letter introduction to share something memorable about your experience .

But before you go down the rabbit hole of creativity and humor, align your message with the company culture.

For example, if you are applying for a role in some startup, use those first two sentences to tell a funny story (about your experience) to quickly connect with the recruiter.

The middle or body of your government cover letter body: a great instrument to tell a story

Now that you've set the right tone with the greeting and introduction of your government cover letter, it's time to get down to business .

Hear us out, the body of your government cover letter is the best storytelling instrument you have, in your job-hunting arsenal.

Writing the next three to six paragraphs, take the time to reassess the advert to discover job-crucial requirements.

Next, choose one accomplishment that covers those key skills and talents.

Use precisely that achievement to tell an exciting story of how you match the ideal candidate profile.

In the undertones of your story or government cover letter body, hint at the difference you'd make and sell your application as the perfect one for the job.

Time to wrap up your government cover letter

Writing the closing paragraph of your government cover letter is just as important as the salutation.

You have to make it personalized to the job advert and recruiter.

Experienced professionals advise candidates to end with a request or reminder for follow-up. Write that you're grateful for the opportunity, and, at the same time, hint that you're available for the next steps of the process.

Otherwise, you could also conclude your government cover letter by facing the future. How do you see yourself, as part of the team? In particular, how would you settle in your new role in the first six months to a year?

Which story should you tell in your government cover letter when you have zero experience

Candidates, lacking professional experience in the field - this one is for you.

Your government cover letter is an exercise of integrity, honesty, and, above all, spinning a positive narrative around your strengths.

And what better way to capture recruiters' attention than with your most job-relevant achievement (this could be from your internship or volunteering experience)?

Make sure to back up your success with transferrable skills that are relevant to the job (e.g. how your year, studying abroad, has taught you to be more motivated and handle multicultural environments).

Another safe card you can bet on is your career dream: in the body of your government cover letter, go into the details of how your ambitions would help make the company you're applying for better.

Key takeaways

Writing your government cover letter has never been easier, so remember to:

• Select a government cover letter template that automatically meets industry formatting (e.g. has one-inch margins, is single-spaced, is in PDF, etc.);
• Make your government cover letter personal by mentioning the recruiters' first or last name;
• Within the introduction, describe what you like best about the company in no more than two sentences;
• Use your government cover letter body to tell a story of your greatest achievement, backed up by job-relevant skills and technologies;
• If you have no professional experience, be honest about it in your government cover letter, but also write about your unique talents.

Cover letter examples by industry

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How to Start a Cover Letter To Keep Recruiters Reading

Customers Interviewed by:

Writing a good cover letter starts with the first word, so you need to know how to start a cover letter right.

Starting a cover letter on the right note is crucial to grab the recruiter’s attention. Whether you’re struggling with a blank document or have a solid foundation, a cover letter needs a punchy opening to make an impact on the hiring team.

What are the key ingredients to starting the perfect cover letter?

Here’s what we’ll cover in this article:

• What to include in your cover letter header.
• How to start a cover letter greeting.
• How to write an impressive cover letter opening paragraph.
• How to start a cover letter off strong.
• Examples of how to start a cover letter.

Each puzzle piece of your cover letter opener creates a detailed picture of who you are as a candidate. It proves to the recruiter that you’re worth contacting for a job interview . Make a standout first impression with your cover letter by including:

• A header with your contact information.
• A personalized greeting.
• A powerful opening statement.

Create your cover letter with AI to customize it for the job description. Optimize your cover letter and resume with Jobscan to get more interviews.

What to include in a cover letter header

The top of your cover letter should include a header with your critical contact information, like:

• Your name and professional title.
• Your phone number.
• Your email address.
• Your LinkedIn profile link.

You can also include other relevant links. These could be to your portfolio website, GitHub, Medium profile, or other industry-specific resources. They will help the recruiter understand your skills.

Include the date, the recipient, the company name, and the address or location of the organization. (This will depend on whether it’s an in-person, hybrid, or remote environment.)

Below is an example of a cover letter including personal information in the header with the date and company information below. This example was created with the Jobscan Cover Letter Generator .

Use our Cover Letter Generator to save yourself time writing your cover letter. The header section will auto-populate based on your resume, so all the details match perfectly.

How to write a cover letter greeting

If you usually start your cover letters with “Dear Sir/Madam” or “To whom it may concern,” it’s time to reinvent your greetings. Not only is this a boring way to start a cover letter, it can come across as lazy.

With a little investigation, it’s easier than ever to find the names of the recruiters or hiring teams. By taking a little time, you can personalize your greeting to boost your chances of a recruiter reading your cover letter from start to finish.

Beat out the 84% of job seekers who don’t find the hiring manager’s name to personalize their applications and go the extra mile.

How can you find the right person to address in your cover letter?

Turn to LinkedIn or the organization’s website.

On LinkedIn, you can either search for the company’s recruiter or talent acquisition team members. Or you can go to the “People” tab of their LinkedIn page to explore the current employees.

Suppose you’re looking for a job at PCL Construction and want to find the name of the recruiter who will likely be reading your cover letter. You can go to the search bar and find the recruiter managing that department by city.

With just a quick search, you’ll find the hiring team members in charge of the role you’re applying for!

You can also go directly to a company’s website and look for the “Team” or “About Us” page for information.

Targeting a greeting to a specific person is easier to do in smaller organizations. If you’re applying for a role at a large company, you can still write an engaging but more general greeting on your cover letter, such as:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Department] Team,
• Dear [Director of or Head of] Department,
• Dear [Company Name] Hiring Manager,

How to write a powerful cover letter opening paragraph

Recruiters spend just seven seconds scanning a candidate’s application , so it’s critical to capture their attention in the first line.

Be concise in your cover letter and choose your words with the desired impact in mind. Avoid falling into the old traps of opening your cover letter by stating what role you’re applying for and how you found it. Remember, you have a precious few seconds to illustrate how you can help the organization fulfill its needs, so make every sentence count.

Read the examples below and ask which one will have a greater impact on employers.

“I am thrilled to apply for the Research Analyst position at YouGov, where my experience in leading market research projects that boosted client engagement by 25% and my expertise in data interpretation have consistently delivered actionable insights and strategic recommendations. Using my skills in analyzing primary research data, I’m looking forward to helping your organization make data-backed decisions to drive growth and profitability in your projects.”

“I am excited to apply for the Research Analyst position at YouGov, an esteemed global online research company well-known for its accurate data and market insights. With my background in managing market research projects, interpreting data, and delivering actionable recommendations, I believe I can contribute significantly to your team.”

The point of your cover letter isn’t just to restate your skills from your resume . You need to prove the impact of your skills and how you’ll bring that impact to the organization.

It’s not about you, it’s about the company’s needs.

Tips for writing a strong cover letter opener

Now that you know what puzzle pieces you need to start a cover letter right, here are some tips to help wow the recruiter with its content.

1. Let your enthusiasm and passion shine through

Your resume illustrates your skills and qualifications , but your cover letter is the place to tell a story. Share what company qualities excite you, what draws you to the organization’s mission or values, and what direct experience you have with the company’s product or service.

Communicating your enthusiasm gives the recruiter an idea of how engaged and dedicated you’ll be to your performance.

With over five years of hands-on experience in property management, I am deeply passionate about creating exceptional living experiences for residents. Your industry-leading services and premium standards in property management systems make me excited about the opportunity to bring my dedication and expertise to your esteemed team.

2. Mention any mutual connections

If you have a professional connection in the company or were referred to a position, name-drop that connection at the top of your cover letter. A connection can help boost your chances of getting an interview, especially if that person can act as a reference.

Give your connection a heads-up if you discovered the opportunity on your own without a referral. That way, if they’re asked about you informally by the hiring team, they’ll know to expect questions.

If you want to give your cover letter a boost with a connection, you can reach out to someone in the company before you apply. Be genuine and try to connect with someone on the team you would be working with. Ask an authentic question or reach out to discuss their experience in the company. Tell them you want to apply for an opening. But don’t try to reach out to anyone just to get a name to plug in your cover letter. It can come across as disingenuous.

My interest in the Health Systems Analyst role was significantly piqued after speaking with Jane Doe, an eHealth Policy Analyst at your organization. Jane highlighted the cutting-edge technology initiatives and collaborative atmosphere within your IT department, which align perfectly with my 7 years of experience in healthcare IT, focusing on electronic health records (EHR) systems and data security.

3. Incorporate your company research

Writing a compelling cover letter requires that you do some research to show the recruiter that you’re aligned with the company’s values, mission, and culture. You need to express to the recruiter why you want to work at their specific organization .

Keep an eye on industry news and learn about the company’s latest projects. By incorporating details about what the organization is currently achieving, you position yourself as a better interview candidate over other applicants.

Your recognition as an industry leader, demonstrated by winning the Best Employer Award for three consecutive years and your successful launch of the community outreach initiative, highlights [Company Name]’s dedication to both employee well-being and social responsibility. I have a track record of increasing employee satisfaction by 20% through strategic wellness programs and look forward to contributing to your continued success.

4. Highlight your most impressive achievement

A well-written resume illustrates your achievements , but your cover letter is the best vehicle to add context and tell a compelling story to show off your impact. You can directly tie it into the role you’re applying for and help the recruiter forge connections between what you have accomplished in the past to what you can achieve for the future—particularly for their company.

In my previous role as a project manager at Apex Management Co, I spearheaded a comprehensive cost-reduction initiative that saved $500,000 annually by optimizing supply chain operations and renegotiating vendor contracts. This accomplishment directly relates to the efficiency and budget management skills required for the Operations Manager position at your organization, where I am eager to contribute to your mission of streamlining processes and enhancing operational efficiency.

5. Clearly state your unique value

In a sea of applicants, it can feel difficult to set yourself apart. But the truth is, no one has the same combination of experience or skills you do. The key to standing out is learning how to frame your unique value to solve a company’s problems. Expand on the key skills listed in the job description and draw on your research of the organization to explicitly spell out how you’ll benefit the team.

With a unique blend of creative and technical skills, I designed a user interface for the HealthCo App that increased user engagement by 40% through user-centered design principles and rigorous usability testing. I am looking forward to bringing this expertise to your organization as a UX Designer, addressing your need for more engaging and intuitive user experiences, particularly as you expand your digital offerings.

6. Keep your cover letter short

Remember that you want the recruiter to read your cover letter from start to finish, so make sure every sentence is meaningful and cut out the fluff. There should be plenty of white space to break up the text and not overwhelm the reader.

Reference our cover letter examples for inspiration on crafting the perfect cover letter.

Let AI write your cover letter for you

Jobscan’s premium Power Edit includes a cover letter generator that harnesses the power of AI to write a customized cover letter based on your tailored resume and the job description. With one click, you’ll generate a cover letter that follows best practices.

You can use it as a framework to defeat blank page syndrome and include anecdotes, details about your mutual connections, and bits of information from your research to impress the hiring team. You can make any alterations in Power Edit and download the PDF when it’s done and ready to be attached to your tailored resume.

Key takeaways

Your cover letter could be the key to landing the interview. By following these essential tips on how to start a cover letter, you’ll capture the attention of the hiring team from the first sentence.

Remember these cover letter rules as you start your writing.

• Make a clear opening statement that shows passion, knowledge, and your unique value.
• Keep your cover letter short—stick to a few concise paragraphs to make it readable.
• Be specific and clear about what you’ll bring to the role.
• Stay away from humor—the tone can be difficult to read.
• Avoid reusing the same cover letter and write a custom cover letter for each job.
• Don’t overinflate your accomplishments or lie about connections that don’t exist.

When including your contact information on a cover letter or resume, make sure to provide the following details: Full Name: Your first and last name. Phone Number: A number where you can be easily reached. Make sure your voicemail is professional. Email Address: Use a professional email address, preferably one that includes your name. Mailing Address: Include your current street address, city, state, and zip code. LinkedIn Profile: If you have a LinkedIn profile that is up-to-date and professional, include the URL. Professional Website or Portfolio: If applicable, include a link to your personal website or online portfolio showcasing your work. This ensures potential employers have multiple ways to reach you and can view your professional online presence.

A good opening sentence for a cover letter can grab the reader’s attention and introduce your purpose for writing. Here are a few examples: For a job application: “I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name], as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. With my background in [your field or relevant experience ], I am eager to bring my skills and passion to your team.” For a career change: “With a strong foundation in [current field], I am thrilled to apply for the [Job Title] role at [Company Name] to leverage my skills in [new field].” For a specific achievement: “Having recently led a successful [project or achievement], I am enthusiastic about applying for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] to bring my expertise in [specific skill or area] to your innovative team.” For expressing enthusiasm: “I have long admired [Company Name]’s commitment to [specific value or mission], and I am excited to apply for the [Job Title] position to contribute to your impactful work with my experience in [relevant experience or field].” For a networking referral: “After speaking with [Referrer’s Name], I am inspired to apply for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] where I can utilize my skills in [specific skill or area] to further your goals.” These starters aim to make a strong first impression by highlighting your enthusiasm, relevant skills, and connection to the company.

Your cover letter opening should contain the following key elements: Your Enthusiasm for the Position: Show genuine excitement and interest in the role you are applying for. This sets a positive tone and captures the reader’s attention. Specific Mention of the Job Title and Company Name: Clearly state the position you are applying for and the name of the company. This ensures the reader knows exactly what role you are interested in. Brief Introduction of Yourself: Include a concise introduction that highlights who you are and what you bring to the table. This can include your current role, relevant experience, or a key achievement. Connection to the Company: Mention something specific about the company that resonates with you, such as their mission, values, recent achievements, or reputation in the industry. This demonstrates that you have researched the company and are genuinely interested in working there. A Hook or Key Strength: Highlight a key skill or accomplishment that makes you a strong candidate for the position. This can be a significant achievement, a unique skill set, or relevant experience that sets you apart from other applicants. Here is an example that incorporates all these elements: “I am excited to apply for the Marketing Manager position at XYZ Company, where I can combine my passion for innovative marketing strategies with my skills in digital advertising. With over five years of experience in driving successful campaigns that increased brand awareness and sales, I am eager to bring my expertise to your dynamic team. I have long admired XYZ Company’s commitment to sustainability and innovative product development, and I am thrilled at the opportunity to contribute to your impactful work. My recent achievement in boosting social media engagement by 40% through targeted campaigns is a testament to my ability to drive results and my dedication to excellence.”

To start a cover letter greeting effectively, follow these guidelines: Address the Hiring Manager by Name: Whenever possible, find out the name of the hiring manager or the person responsible for hiring. Addressing the letter to a specific person shows that you have done your research and adds a personal touch. Use a Professional Salutation: Use a formal greeting such as “Dear” followed by the person’s title (Mr., Ms., Dr., etc.) and last name. Avoid using first names or informal greetings. When You Don’t Know the Name: If you cannot find the hiring manager’s name, use a general but professional greeting such as “ Dear Hiring Manager ” or “Dear [Department] Team.” Avoid Outdated Phrases: Refrain from using outdated or overly formal phrases like “To Whom It May Concern.” A modern, professional greeting is more effective. Examples: When you know the hiring manager’s name: “Dear Ms. Smith,” When you know the hiring manager’s title and department: “Dear Marketing Team Lead,” When you don’t know the hiring manager’s name: “Dear Hiring Manager,” When applying to a specific department: “Dear Marketing Team,” Starting your cover letter with a proper greeting sets a professional tone and demonstrates your attention to detail.

Kelsey is a Content Writer with a background in content creation, bouncing between industries to educate readers everywhere.

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What is Project 2025? What to know about the conservative blueprint for a second Trump administration

By Melissa Quinn , Jacob Rosen

Updated on: July 11, 2024 / 9:40 AM EDT / CBS News

Washington — Voters in recent weeks have begun to hear the name "Project 2025" invoked more and more by President Biden and Democrats, as they seek to sound the alarm about what could be in store if former President Donald Trump wins a second term in the White House.

Overseen by the conservative Heritage Foundation, the multi-pronged initiative includes a detailed blueprint for the next Republican president to usher in a sweeping overhaul of the executive branch.

Trump and his campaign have worked to distance themselves from Project 2025, with the former president going so far as to call some of the proposals "abysmal." But Democrats have continued to tie the transition project to Trump, especially as they find themselves mired in their own controversy over whether Mr. Biden should withdraw from the 2024 presidential contest following his startling debate performance last month.

Here is what to know about Project 2025:

What is Project 2025?

Project 2025 is a proposed presidential transition project that is composed of four pillars: a policy guide for the next presidential administration; a LinkedIn-style database of personnel who could serve in the next administration; training for that pool of candidates dubbed the "Presidential Administration Academy;" and a playbook of actions to be taken within the first 180 days in office.

It is led by two former Trump administration officials: Paul Dans, who was chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management and serves as director of the project, and Spencer Chretien, former special assistant to Trump and now the project's associate director.

Project 2025 is spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation, but includes an advisory board consisting of more than 100 conservative groups.

Much of the focus on — and criticism of — Project 2025 involves its first pillar, the nearly 900-page policy book that lays out an overhaul of the federal government. Called "Mandate for Leadership 2025: The Conservative Promise," the book builds on a "Mandate for Leadership" first published in January 1981, which sought to serve as a roadmap for Ronald Reagan's incoming administration.

The recommendations outlined in the sprawling plan reach every corner of the executive branch, from the Executive Office of the President to the Department of Homeland Security to the little-known Export-Import Bank. 

The Heritage Foundation also created a "Mandate for Leadership" in 2015 ahead of Trump's first term. Two years into his presidency, it touted that Trump had instituted 64% of its policy recommendations, ranging from leaving the Paris Climate Accords, increasing military spending, and increasing off-shore drilling and developing federal lands. In July 2020, the Heritage Foundation gave its updated version of the book to then-White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows. 

The authors of many chapters are familiar names from the Trump administration, such as Russ Vought, who led the Office of Management and Budget; former acting Defense Secretary Chris Miller; and Roger Severino, who was director of the Office of Civil Rights at the Department of Health and Human Services.

Vought is the policy director for the 2024 Republican National Committee's platform committee, which released its proposed platform on Monday. 

John McEntee, former director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office under Trump, is a senior advisor to the Heritage Foundation, and said that the group will "integrate a lot of our work" with the Trump campaign when the official transition efforts are announced in the next few months.

Candidates interested in applying for the Heritage Foundation's "Presidential Personnel Database" are vetted on a number of political stances, such as whether they agree or disagree with statements like "life has a right to legal protection from conception to natural death," and "the President should be able to advance his/her agenda through the bureaucracy without hindrance from unelected federal officials."

The contributions from ex-Trump administration officials have led its critics to tie Project 2025 to his reelection campaign, though the former president has attempted to distance himself from the initiative.

What are the Project 2025 plans?

Some of the policies in the Project 2025 agenda have been discussed by Republicans for years or pushed by Trump himself: less federal intervention in education and more support for school choice; work requirements for able-bodied, childless adults on food stamps; and a secure border with increased enforcement of immigration laws, mass deportations and construction of a border wall. 

But others have come under scrutiny in part because of the current political landscape. 

Abortion and social issues

In recommendations for the Department of Health and Human Services, the agenda calls for the Food and Drug Administration to reverse its 24-year-old approval of the widely used abortion pill mifepristone. Other proposed actions targeting medication abortion include reinstating more stringent rules for mifepristone's use, which would permit it to be taken up to seven weeks into a pregnancy, instead of the current 10 weeks, and requiring it to be dispensed in-person instead of through the mail.

The Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative legal group that is on the Project 2025 advisory board, was involved in a legal challenge to mifepristone's 2000 approval and more recent actions from the FDA that made it easier to obtain. But the Supreme Court rejected the case brought by a group of anti-abortion rights doctors and medical associations on procedural grounds.

The policy book also recommends the Justice Department enforce the Comstock Act against providers and distributors of abortion pills. That 1873 law prohibits drugs, medicines or instruments used in abortions from being sent through the mail.

Now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe v. Wade , the volume states that the Justice Department "in the next conservative administration should therefore announce its intent to enforce federal law against providers and distributors of such pills."

The guide recommends the next secretary of Health and Human Services get rid of the Reproductive Healthcare Access Task Force established by the Biden administration before Roe's reversal and create a "pro-life task force to ensure that all of the department's divisions seek to use their authority to promote the life and health of women and their unborn children."

In a section titled "The Family Agenda," the proposal recommends the Health and Human Services chief "proudly state that men and women are biological realities," and that "married men and women are the ideal, natural family structure because all children have a right to be raised by the men and women who conceived them."

Further, a program within the Health and Human Services Department should "maintain a biblically based, social science-reinforced definition of marriage and family."

During his first four years in office, Trump banned transgender people from serving in the military. Mr. Biden reversed that policy , but the Project 2025 policy book calls for the ban to be reinstated.

Targeting federal agencies, employees and policies

The agenda takes aim at longstanding federal agencies, like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. The agency is a component of the Commerce Department and the policy guide calls for it to be downsized. 

NOAA's six offices, including the National Weather Service and National Marine Fisheries Service, "form a colossal operation that has become one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry and, as such, is harmful to future U.S. prosperity," the guide states. 

The Department of Homeland Security, established in 2002, should be dismantled and its agencies either combined with others, or moved under the purview of other departments altogether, the policy book states. For example, immigration-related entities from the Departments of Homeland Security, Justice and Health and Human Services should form a standalone, Cabinet-level border and immigration agency staffed by more than 100,000 employees, according to the agenda.

If the policy recommendations are implemented, another federal agency that could come under the knife by the next administration, with action from Congress, is the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

The agenda seeks to bring a push by conservatives to target diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, initiatives in higher education to the executive branch by wiping away a slew of DEI-related positions, policies and programs and calling for the elimination of funding for partners that promote DEI practices.

It states that U.S. Agency for International Development staff and grantees that "engage in ideological agitation on behalf of the DEI agenda" should be terminated. At the Treasury Department, the guide says the next administration should "treat the participation in any critical race theory or DEI initiative without objecting on constitutional or moral grounds, as per se grounds for termination of employment."

The Project 2025 policy book also takes aim at more innocuous functions of government. It calls for the next presidential administration to eliminate or reform the dietary guidelines that have been published by the Department of Agriculture for more than 40 years, which the authors claim have been "infiltrated" by issues like climate change and sustainability.

Immigration

Trump made immigration a cornerstone of his last two presidential runs and has continued to hammer the issue during his 2024 campaign. Project 2025's agenda not only recommends finishing the wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, but urges the next administration to "take a creative and aggressive approach" to responding to drug cartels at the border. This approach includes using active-duty military personnel and the National Guard to help with arrest operations along the southern border.

A memo from Immigration and Customs Enforcement that prohibits enforcement actions from taking place at "sensitive" places like schools, playgrounds and churches should be rolled back, the policy guide states. 

When the Homeland Security secretary determines there is an "actual or anticipated mass migration of aliens" that presents "urgent circumstances" warranting a federal response, the agenda says the secretary can make rules and regulations, including through their expulsion, for as long as necessary. These rules, the guide states, aren't subject to the Administration Procedure Act, which governs the agency rule-making process.

What do Trump and his advisers say about Project 2025?

In a post to his social media platform on July 5, Trump wrote , "I know nothing about Project 2025. I have no idea who is behind it. I disagree with some of the things they're saying and some of the things they're saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal. Anything they do, I wish them luck, but I have nothing to do with them."

Trump's pushback to the initiative came after Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts said in a podcast interview that the nation is "in the process of the second American Revolution, which will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be."

The former president continued to disavow the initiative this week, writing in another social media post  that he knows nothing about Project 2025.

"I have not seen it, have no idea who is in charge of it, and, unlike our very well received Republican Platform, had nothing to do with it," Trump wrote. "The Radical Left Democrats are having a field day, however, trying to hook me into whatever policies are stated or said. It is pure disinformation on their part. By now, after all of these years, everyone knows where I stand on EVERYTHING!"

While the former president said he doesn't know who is in charge of the initiative, the project's director, Dans, and associate director, Chretien, were high-ranking officials in his administration. Additionally, Ben Carson, former secretary of Housing and Urban Development under Trump; John Ratcliffe, former director of National Intelligence in the Trump administration; and Peter Navarro, who served as a top trade adviser to Trump in the White House, are listed as either authors or contributors to the policy agenda.

Still, even before Roberts' comments during "The War Room" podcast — typically hosted by conservative commentator Steve Bannon, who reported to federal prison to begin serving a four-month sentence last week — Trump's top campaign advisers have stressed that Project 2025 has no official ties to his reelection bid.

Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita, senior advisers to the Trump campaign, said in a November statement that 2024 policy announcements will be made by Trump or his campaign team.

"Any personnel lists, policy agendas, or government plans published anywhere are merely suggestions," they said.

While the efforts by outside organizations are "appreciated," Wiles and LaCivita said, "none of these groups or individuals speak for President Trump or his campaign."

In response to Trump's post last week, Project 2025 reiterated that it was separate from the Trump campaign.

"As we've been saying for more than two years now, Project 2025 does not speak for any candidate or campaign. We are a coalition of more than 110 conservative groups advocating policy & personnel recommendations for the next conservative president. But it is ultimately up to that president, who we believe will be President Trump, to decide which recommendations to implement," a statement on the project's X account said.

The initiative has also pushed back on Democrats' claims about its policy proposals and accused them of lying about what the agenda contains.

What do Democrats say?

Despite their attempts to keep some distance from Project 2025, Democrats continue to connect Trump with the transition effort. The Biden-Harris campaign frequently posts about the project on X, tying it to a second Trump term.

Mr. Biden himself accused his Republican opponent of lying about his connections to the Project 2025 agenda, saying in a statement that the agenda was written for Trump and "should scare every single American." He claimed on his campaign social media account  Wednesday that Project 2025 "will destroy America."

Congressional Democrats have also begun pivoting to Project 2025 when asked in interviews about Mr. Biden's fitness for a second term following his lackluster showing at the June 27 debate, the first in which he went head-to-head with Trump.

"Trump is all about Project 2025," Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman told CNN on Monday. "I mean, that's what we really should be voting on right now. It's like, do we want the kind of president that is all about Project '25?"

Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, one of Mr. Biden's closest allies on Capitol Hill, told reporters Monday that the agenda for the next Republican president was the sole topic he would talk about.

"Project 2025, that's my only concern," he said. "I don't want you or my granddaughter to live under that government."

In a statement reiterating her support for Mr. Biden, Rep. Frederica Wilson of Florida called Project 2025 "MAGA Republicans' draconian 920-page plan to end U.S. democracy, give handouts to the wealthy and strip Americans of their freedoms."

What are Republicans saying about Project 2025?

Two GOP senators under consideration to serve as Trump's running mate sought to put space between the White House hopeful and Project 2025, casting it as merely the product of a think tank that puts forth ideas.

"It's the work of a think tank, of a center-right think tank, and that's what think tanks do," Florida Sen. Marco Rubio told CNN's "State of the Union" on Sunday.

He said Trump's message to voters focuses on "restoring common sense, working-class values, and making our decisions on the basis of that."

Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance raised a similar sentiment in an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press," saying organizations will have good ideas and bad ideas.

"It's a 900-page document," he said Sunday. "I guarantee there are things that Trump likes and dislikes about that 900-page document. But he is the person who will determine the agenda of the next administration."

Jaala Brown contributed to this report.

Melissa Quinn is a politics reporter for CBSNews.com. She has written for outlets including the Washington Examiner, Daily Signal and Alexandria Times. Melissa covers U.S. politics, with a focus on the Supreme Court and federal courts.

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Cover Letter for Government Job Examples (APS, State and Local)

Written by Nicole Wren

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by Nicole Wren | Apr 2, 2024 | Career Advice , Examples

Writing your cover letter for a government job requires a different approach than writing your cover letter for a job in the private sector. While it may state ‘cover letter’, it is usually actually asking for a selection criteria response. How you approach it will depend on which level of government you are applying for, since the requirements for APS, State and local roles differ between each other. Our detailed cover letter for government jobs examples – tailored for APS, (all) state and local positions – will help you understand what is required.

Australian Public Service (APS) Cover Letter Requirements

The APS has specific guidelines and criteria for job applications. They may refer to their written application as a ‘pitch’ or ‘statement’.  They will specify the length requirements in the application guidelines, but these are often 500 words, 600 words, 800 words, 1000 words or even more.

Read an APS Statement of Claims (cover letter).

Cover Letter for Government Job – State Requirements

Did you know that each State government has its own specific requirements? As such, it’s essential to thoroughly read the job advertisement and address any selection criteria outlined.

Queensland Government Cover Letter Requirements

You can find Queensland Government jobs via the Smartjobs website .

As well as your resume, you’re also required to a 1-2 page cover letter or ‘statement’ that addresses “how your experience, abilities, education, skills and personal qualities relate to the requirements of the role, taking into account key responsibilities and attributes”.

Read a full Queensland cover letter for government job example .

New South Wales Government Cover Letter Requirements

Find NSW Government jobs via the I Work for NSW website .

In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a one to two-page cover letter or a short statement against 1-2 targeted questions. You’ll need to refer to the behavioural indicators relating to the capability level in the NSW public sector.

Read a full NSW cover letter for government job example .

Australian Capital Territory – ACT Government Cover Letter Requirements

You can find ACT Government jobs via this website.

In addition to your resume, you’re also asked to complete a response to the selection criteria. There will be either a page or word limit.

Along with your resume, you’ll need to respond to the selection criteria. This may have a specific word length or page length. You may also be asked for a standard ‘selection criteria’ response, where you’ll use each criterion as a heading and address each one, using the STAR format, in your response.

Read an ACT cover letter for government job example .

Victorian Government Cover Letter Requirements

Find Vic Government jobs here .

In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a key selection criteria (KSC) document. You’ll need to write short statements (usually 60-120 words), addressing each criterion.

Read a Victorian cover letter for government job example .

Western Australian Government Cover Letter Requirements

You can find WA Government jobs here .

Each WA Department has its own application requirements and procedures, so you will need to check the application guidelines for each job carefully.

Read a WA cover letter for government job example .

South Australian Government Cover Letter Requirements

Find SA government jobs via the I Work For SA website .

In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a cover letter or response to the selection criteria.

Read a SA cover letter for government job example .

Tasmanian Government Cover Letter Requirements

Find Tasmanian government jobs here .

In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a cover letter application addressing the selection criteria or traditional selection criteria response.  

Read a Tasmanian cover letter for government job example .

Northern Territory Government Cover Letter Requirements

You can find NT Government jobs here .

In addition to your resume, you’re required to submit a one-page statement. While you should take the selection criteria into account in your response, not each one needs to be addressed individually.

Read a NT cover letter for government job example .

Cover Letter for Government Job – Local Government Requirements

Each local government organisation will have its own application requirements. Usually, you will need to address specific selection criteria in the context of the job requirements.

Read a cover letter for local council job example .

Crafting a winning cover letter for government jobs requires careful attention to detail and a tailored approach. By following the examples and tips provided here (and reading the application guidelines very carefully!), you can develop your own effective government cover letter.

Contact us if you have further questions.

Nicole Wren

Senior Writer

Nicole is the principal resume writer at Resumes to Impress. Nicole loves writing and sharing her knowledge about all things job hunting and career guidance.

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The new Individual Assistance updates only apply to disasters declared on or after March 22, 2024. Read about the updates.

FEMA Urges Public to Stay on Alert, Stands Ready to Support Tropical Storm Beryl

WASHINGTON -- As the first major hurricane of the season sets the tone for heightened storm activity in the coming months, FEMA pre-positioned personnel on the ground in Texas to support state-led response efforts while Tropical Storm Beryl continues its path along the Texas coast and further inland.  

Prior to the hurricane’s landfall, FEMA staged commodities and critical supplies, including 500,000 meals and 800,000 liters of water, that are ready to distribute at the state’s request. FEMA also has 60 generators on-site to provide power to critical infrastructure, if needed. To ensure communication capabilities on the ground, FEMA has two Mobile Emergency Response Support vehicles prepared to support.  

People in the storm’s path are still encouraged to remain vigilant and listen to their local officials, as the storm continues to move inland. 

Federal and State Response Efforts

FEMA has over 60 staff embedded with the state who stand ready to support response operations as needed. 

The U.S. Coast Guard is on standby with boats and aircraft to assist search and rescue activities as well as reconstitute ports as it becomes safe to do so. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has an Emergency Power Planning and Response Team on the ground to assist with any temporary emergency power needs to critical public facilities. 

The State of Texas currently has more than 2,000 responders and 850 assets rostered and deployed in support of the state’s response to anticipated impacts from the storm. The state continues to take action to provide all available resources to help support local communities in need. For more information, visit:  Hurricane Beryl (texas.gov) .   

Non-profit Partner Support

The Salvation Army has mobilized an Emergency Disaster Services team focused on providing feeding, emotional and spiritual care and has 35,000 meals ready for storm survivors. In addition, the American Red Cross has deployed hundreds of trained disaster workers and truckloads of relief supplies, along with numerous emergency response vehicles, to impacted areas. Team Rubicon’s domestic teams have more than 16,000 local volunteers standing by. 

Stay Safe After Tropical Storm Beryl

Residents and visitors affected by the storm should be aware of continued risks and should not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. 

Residents should continue to closely monitor the path of the storm and follow instructions from local officials.

• Stay off the roads.  Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. People can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.  
• Don’t drive through flood waters.  Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When driving, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause people to lose control of their vehicle. 
• Do not walk or wade in flood waters. The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. It may also include dangerous wildlife. For flooded basements, people should never attempt to turn off power or operate circuit breakers while standing in water. Wear gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris alone.  
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. Consider all downed lines live with deadly voltage. Stay away and report them immediately to the power or utility company. 

As power outages continue to affect the area, FEMA urges residents and business owners to follow these tips to stay safe: 

• Use generators safely. Generators can be helpful when the power goes out. It is important to know how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Only use them outdoors and away from windows. 
• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. A refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours and a full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. 
• Disconnect appliances and electronics.  Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment or electronics. Power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.

For additional information on staying safe during and after disasters, visit  Ready.gov or  Listo.gov  in Spanish language.

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Navigating USAJOBS & Introduction to Federal Resume Writing (24 JUL 2024)

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Army Civilian Careers invites you to participate in a virtual informational session on federal resume writing, navigating USAJOBS website, including paid internships and fellowships in the federal government. We are a values-based community of nearly 300,000 federal civilian employees, much like those in other U.S. Federal Agencies, e.g., State, NASA, Commerce, Justice, and Education. These are strictly civilian positions. Applying for employment on USAJOBS can be a challenging process, but we are here to help! In this session we will walk through the application process to include the questionnaire, discuss resume formats, preferences, required documents to include, and how to align your experience with the job qualifications. This class is designed specifically to help you develop your federal resume and address key areas in the job announcement to make you an eligible applicant. In this session we will cover:  The Army Student Intern Program  The Army Fellows Program  How to create a USAJOBs account Applying for federal jobs  How to navigate USAJOBS Application announcement information – what the words really mean.  Beginning steps to writing a federal resume Note: This session will be conducted via MS Teams, and you will need to download the application to view the session in its entirety.

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The importance of a federal employee 'love letter'

Commentary | this gesture of love and care for your beneficiaries can be a great resource after you are gone..

Austin Costello

• Pay & Benefits Watch

We often prioritize planning for the future, whether it's through retirement savings in programs like the Thrift Savings Plan or securing pension benefits. However, amid all the financial planning, there's one crucial document that many of us might overlook: the "love letter" to our beneficiaries.

What exactly is a "love letter"? It's not a romantic gesture, but rather a practical and essential document that outlines how to access all your benefits and accounts in the event of your passing. Think of it as a roadmap for your loved ones during a time of emotional and logistical stress.

Here's why having a comprehensive "love letter" is vital for federal employees:

1. Clarity Amidst Complexity:  

Federal benefits systems can be complex, especially for those unfamiliar with them. Combine that with all the other items that need to be addressed, and your beneficiaries may not know where to start or whom to contact without guidance. A detailed document provides clarity on what benefits exist, where they are located, and how to access them.

2. Protecting Your Loved Ones:  

Without clear instructions, your beneficiaries may face delays or difficulties in accessing benefits. This could create financial strain during an already challenging time. A "love letter" ensures that your loved ones can swiftly and smoothly navigate the process, alleviating unnecessary stress.

3. Maximizing Benefits:  

Certain federal benefits, such as the TSP and pension survivor benefit, have specific procedures for claiming and distribution. Providing instructions in advance can help your beneficiaries maximize these benefits and ensure they receive everything you intended for them.

So, what should you include in your federal employee "love letter"?

List benefits and accounts:  

Start by compiling a comprehensive list of all your federal benefits and accounts. This may include your TSP account, pension plan details, life insurance policies, health benefits, and any other relevant accounts.

Contact information and procedures:  

For each benefit or account, provide contact information for the respective agencies or institutions. Include specific instructions on how your beneficiaries can initiate the claims process or access funds. For example, if you're a federal employee with a TSP account, outline how your beneficiaries can claim the funds and what forms they need to submit.

FEGLI Beneficiary Form

TSP Beneficiary Booklet

Lump Sum Death Benefit & Survivor Annuity application instructions

Important documents location:  

Note the location of important documents, such as your will, insurance policies, and any relevant legal documents. This ensures that your beneficiaries can easily locate and access these documents when needed.

Designated beneficiaries:  

Confirm and update beneficiary designations regularly. Ensure that your "love letter" reflects the most current information regarding your chosen beneficiaries for each benefit or account.

Review and update regularly:  

Life circumstances change, and so do your benefits and accounts. Review and update your "love letter" periodically to reflect any changes in your financial situation, beneficiaries, or contact information.

A federal employee "love letter" is not just a document; it's a gesture of love and care for your beneficiaries. By taking the time to compile this essential roadmap, you can ensure that your loved ones are supported and empowered during a difficult time. Don't wait until it's too late—start drafting your "love letter" today to safeguard your legacy tomorrow.

Austin Costello  is a certified financial planner with Capital Financial Planners. If you’d like help deciding if Roth TSP contributions could be beneficial to you and your beneficiaries, you can  register for a complimentary check up .   For topics covered in even greater depth, check out our  YouTube page or sign up for our monthly newsletter.

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