Blog
Highlights from the court hearing halting federal RIFs
This morning, I tuned in to the hearing challenging the federal government’s Reductions in Force (RIF) during the current lapse in appropriations. Here are highlights from the hearing and the judge’s decision enjoining the federal government from proceeding with RIFs.
What to know if you received a federal RIF notice
You may have heard that many federal employees received Reduction In Force (RIF) notices. Even now, federal agencies must still ensure that RIFs “comply with merit system laws and regulations.” Here are a key points to know about OPM's memo on RIF Basics.
How to ensure your federal resume meets the new USAJOBS requirements
Here is a rundown of the formatting and content requirements you’ll need to follow if you want your federal resume to meet the new USAJOBS requirements. Starting on September 27, 2025, all federal resumes will be limited to just two pages.
Why I became a professional resume writer
Several people have asked how I got into resume writing. After reviewing thousands of resumes as a government hiring manager, I started writing resumes as a pandemic project. In the past five years, I have written resumes for 300 clients. Equipping others with the tools to share their talents with the world is, for me, the magic and wonder that comes from being a professional resume writer.
What to know about the new USAJOBS federal resume requirements
Starting September 27, the longform federal resume is dead. Here is what you need to know to make sure your federal resume meets the new requirements.
Ten tips on how to handle email more efficiently
When it comes to working efficiently, figuring out how to handle up to 1,000 emails a day has been a necessary part of my job. I have used both Outlook and Gmail at work. Here are several features and tips to improve your email management and process emails more quickly.
How to get more done in less time at work
One afternoon, I gathered over lunch with a dozen White House colleagues to exchange our favorite productivity hacks. From Outlook macros to scheduling wizardry, we shared best practices to get more done under intense time pressure. Here are 12 of my favorite practices to maximize my productive time at work.
How to pack light for any trip
I learned minimalist packing by necessity when I traveled through 14 countries in 8 months as a recipient of the Bonderman Travel Fellowship. For the many friends and colleagues who have asked me for packing advice over the years, here are my favorite packing tips and gear.
How to avoid AI pitfalls when writing your résumé
Before you turn to AI to write your résumé or cover letter, it’s important to understand how to use AI effectively, rather than to your own detriment. Here, I discuss several common perils of using AI, and how you can exploit its potential benefits for your job search.
How to navigate the new Senior Executive Service hiring process
Here, I present an overview of OPM's overhaul of the SES hiring process and what the new résumé requirements mean for aspiring government executives.
How to write an ATS-friendly résumé
Here are several strategies to help you understand how Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) work and how to optimize your résumé's performance in ATS.
How to prepare for layoffs
With recent mass layoffs happening in the public and private sectors, I gathered tips on how to prepare for layoffs. Read on for steps you can take to be ready.