Survey: Hiring Process, Misconceptions Dissuade Gen Z from Seeking Federal Jobs

The Partnership for Public Service says that a recent survey it conducted shows that “federal careers are natural fits for members of Generation Z, who often seek employers affecting positive change” but that misconceptions and the hiring process often dissuade them from even applying.

A posting said that while two-thirds of those between ages 18 and 34 in the survey “agree that a federal career offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on their community,” a similar two-thirds “have never considered applying for a federal job.” Only 7 percent actually applied while the rest thought about it but did not follow through.

It said that common misconceptions include that all federal jobs are located in the Washington, D.C., area—only 15 percent are—and that they all focus exclusively on policy. Another factor in reluctance to apply, it said, is a focus only on the salary part of compensation, when the government may compare better in other ways, such as benefits and job stability.

The posting also cited the oft-mentioned difficulties for applicants in the federal hiring process, including: requirements for more detailed resumes and descriptions of experience; job titles often do not correlate directly to duties; and some job announcements open and close within days or a week.

“Understanding hiring authorities and appointment types can be dizzying for jobseekers. Many also become frustrated with long lead times, often waiting upward of four to six months to hear whether their application has advanced to the next stage of the hiring process,” it said.

It added: “By revealing young people’s positive perceptions of federal service—and their hesitancy to apply for federal work—our survey offers a roadmap for agencies to adjust their recruitment strategies and more effectively appeal to Gen Z to inspire the next generation of public servants.”

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