public service Archives - Amanda Bernardo

Resume tips for public servants

admin — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 16:44:00 +0000

If you are a public servant and sharing your CV with a hiring manager, consider including some of these musts within it:

Current classification and level
Any actings
Security clearance
Language profile
Note the classification and level throughout your experiences
Qualified pools

I’ve received a lot of CVs lately and many do not include any of the above info, whether it be in the resume or accompanying email.

Consider at the top of the resume adding something like this:

Substantive: EC-07 | Acting: EX-01 | Secret Clearance | SLE: EBC | Qualified Pools: (Classification – Level) , (Selection Process Number)

If your substantive is a term, next to the classification and level in brackets include (Term). If you are only partially qualified in a pool, also note this in brackets.

Hope this helps!

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Navigating a career in the public service

admin — Tue, 30 May 2023 21:14:00 +0000

Why choose a career in public service?

Public service offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the betterment of society and the ability to positively impact the lives of others. By choosing a public service career, you become part of a larger mission to create positive change and promote the common good.

Public service requires dedication, compassion, and a genuine commitment to serving others. Embrace the privilege of being entrusted with the responsibility to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Your work has the potential to shape policies, implement initiatives, and positively impact the lives of countless people.

And yet, like any job, navigating the public service can feel daunting to new public servants. So, here’s a little advice to get you started:

Familiarize yourself with the goals and objectives of your organization (a good place to start is reading your mandate letter). Understanding the broader purpose will help you align your efforts and contribute meaningfully.

Seek guidance from your colleagues who can provide valuable insights and mentorship – at all levels. Their expertise and experience can help you navigate complex situations and make informed decisions.

Networking within your organization and across different departments is crucial. Don’t hesitate to reach out for an informal coffee – whether virtual or in-person – or to ask for an introduction.

Engage in professional development opportunities, attend training sessions, and actively seek out learning opportunities to enhance your skills. Federal Youth Network and the Canada School of Public Service | École de la fonction publique du Canada are great resources to support such development.

Public service demands high standards of integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct. Ensure that your actions and decisions align with these principles, as they are crucial for maintaining public trust.

Be adaptable and resilient. Public service often involves navigating complex challenges and evolving situations. Cultivate resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. This mindset will help you respond effectively to unexpected situations and overcome obstacles.

Develop strong written and verbal communication skills, and learn to tailor your message to different audiences. Effective communication fosters understanding, collaboration, and the ability to convey complex ideas. I can also guarantee almost every competition will ask about this experience so be sure to cultivate it.

And remember, public service is not without its challenges. There may be obstacles along the way, but view them as opportunities for growth and learning. Cultivate resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast belief in the importance of your work. With perseverance and a positive mindset, you can navigate through the complexities and overcome any hurdles that come your way.

You got this!

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Nine years in the public service

admin — Fri, 26 May 2023 22:29:00 +0000

Today marks nine years since I embarked on my career in the federal public service.

Throughout these years, I’ve had the privilege of working across five different departments, each offering unique challenges and opportunities. This incredible experience has shaped me both personally and professionally, leaving an indelible mark on my life and career.

One of the most profound realizations during these years has been witnessing the genuine dedication and passion of my colleagues. The shared commitment to serving Canadians and making a positive impact on their lives is awe-inspiring. It has been an honor to work alongside like-minded individuals who truly care about the well-being of our fellow citizens.

These talented individuals have taught me the value of diversity in collaboration. Together, we tackled complex problems, leveraging our diverse expertise and perspectives to find innovative solutions. More importantly, we’ve proven that effective collaboration and teamwork are truly the cornerstones of success within the public service.

Moving through various departments allowed me to further broaden my perspectives and gain invaluable insights into different areas of public service. From policy development to program implementation, each experience has brought its unique set of challenges and complexities. This exposure has deepened my understanding of the GC and the diverse needs of our society.

Working in a dynamic and evolving environment has also reinforced the importance of continuous learning. I have been fortunate to engage in professional development opportunities, attend workshops, and participate in training programs. This emphasis on growth has not only expanded my knowledge but also equipped me with new skills and competencies to adapt to changing circumstances. We need to promote more of this … for everyone.

The public service landscape is continually evolving, driven by emerging technologies, societal changes, and evolving political priorities. Navigating this shifting terrain has reinforced the importance of both learning and adaptability. I have learned to embrace change, remain flexible, and continually refine my skill set to stay ahead of the curve. This ability to adapt has not only allowed me to contribute effectively but has also prepared me to thrive in an ever-changing professional landscape.

Whether through policy initiatives, program development, or stakeholder engagement, I have witnessed firsthand the positive change that can be achieved through collective efforts. This realization has further motivated me to pursue work that aligns with my values and has a tangible effect on the lives of Canadians.

Looking back at the last nine years, I am filled with gratitude for the enriching experiences, invaluable connections, and personal growth that my journey in the Canadian federal public service has afforded me.

That said, I know there is work to do … and I’m here, ready to do it.

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