There are millions of government workers around the country, each with a different reason for seeking out a government job… and a different reason for staying. Government employees — whether local, state or federal — tend to have a sense of camaraderie with each other. This is especially prominent as public opinion toward government and government workers seem to be souring around the country.
Yet we continue to not only do our jobs, but enjoy them. Why else would users flock to GovLoop, LinkedIn and other social networks to network and collaborate with other public servants? Here on GovLoop, we’ve even come up with an affectionate – if not a little silly – nickname for ourselves: govie.
In the IRS Recruitment Office, we encourage our employee to interact with our ‘fans’ on Facebook by sharing their passion for being a “govie.” One of our fans recently posted, “…I know that I made the right decision to become an Internal Revenue Officer in 1977.” While my experience as a govie isn’t as extensive, I can honestly say it’s the most rewarding work I’ve ever done, and I’m not shy about telling others about what I do and why it’s important.
What is it about your job that makes you say, “I can’t imagine doing anything else” – why does being a govie rock?
Recruitment 411 is the official blog of the IRS Recruitment Office.
I have been a govie since 19 so maybe I am biased but I love my job! I have not really worked anywhere else but for the feds. They have assisted in paying for my education, provided me with stability in my life and best yet, an enjoyable job. I love being able to assist those I work with by answering their multitude of questions and being able to investigate the answer if I don’t know it off the top of my head. I get to be creative and have some authority at the same time.
Work life balance is very important to me. I’m a single parent with a teenage son. I have only been a govie since 2006. Prior to that, I was an HR professional in a large private sector. I worked between 50 and 60 hours per week. I can’t imagine myself working those hours and raising a teenager in this day and age. Not only do I work 40 hours a week, but I’m also able to work from home so I can be active at my son’s school and church activities.
It may be great to be a govvie but if you’re very well qualified and have good, relevant experience, and can’t even get an interview since you can’t get even into the hiring process, then what do you do?
Susan,
I completely understand your frustration. Before joining the IRS Recruitment Office, I spent 3 years searching through job announcements and applying. My best advice is don’t give up! All my effort was worth it. Some great opportunities have come my way, and I LOVE my job – this is honestly the most rewarding work I’ve ever done.
There wasn’t any one particular thing I did that was the key to landing my job. I checked USAjobs two or three times a week and applied for anything that sounded interesting, even if I was over qualified. I also let friends who work for the Federal Government know that I was looking for a position. Be patient but persistent!
PS-If you’re curious about IRS jobs visit our careers website: http://jobs.irs.gov/home.html we also have a Facebook page where applicants ask questions and we share tips on how to get your foot in the door – feel free to check it out: http://on.fb.me/dkbxFO Good Luck!