Defense News

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Resume Tips for Analysis Occupations

Tips from the Intelligence Community when apply for these jobs.

Technical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): Analysts across the Community work in many different specialty areas. As a result, relevant skills, knowledge, and education vary according to the specialty area in which the analyst works. Analysts may possess expertise of a particular country or geographic region or may understand a particular issue in-depth. Carefully read the job vacancy announcement and ensure your resume includes job-related technical expertise. Examples include mathematics/statistical analysis, regional studies, and science and technology (e.g., aeronautical science).

Education: Include diplomas or degrees awarded from educational institutions. Many of the agencies require a bachelor's degree or a more advanced degree. Some common fields of study include political science, regional studies, international affairs, geography, economics, engineering, or physical or life sciences. Do not submit transcripts unless the agency requests them. Some agencies request grade point averages for each educational institution you have attended.

General Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): While technical KSAs may vary depending on the specific agency and job vacancy announcement, many general KSAs are relevant to any Analysis occupation. Whenever possible, highlight your capabilities in these areas. In particular, emphasize:

* Written communication skills such as the ability to write concise prose
* Critical thinking/analytical skills
* Reading comprehension skills
* Problem-solving skills
* Interpersonal skills
* Research skills (e.g., to collect and evaluate data, synthesize large amounts of information)
* Oral expression (briefing) skills
* The ability to think creatively
* The ability to work in a team environment (i.e., to be a "team player")
* The ability to work independently
* The ability to work under tight deadlines and perform effectively under pressure
* Knowledge of the Internet/Internet searching capabilities (and other computer related expertise)

Foreign Language: Foreign language proficiency is essential (or desirable) for some job vacancies. It is to your advantage to disclose any expertise you have in this area. Be specific. List each language. If known, outline your level of proficiency with respect to key tasks such as reading, writing, listening, translation, and transcription. Specific training courses, other instruction, or experience in foreign languages should also be outlined.

Internships or Related Experience: Include job-related experience such as summer internships with government or industry. Laboratory or other research experience may be important for some positions.

Military Experience: Specify any military experience you possess including your rank and job-related experience.

Specialized Background: If relevant, include any specialized background you may have such as previous employment as a military or civilian pilot, navigator, or air traffic controller.

Overseas/In Country Experience: Previous travel, study, work abroad, or residency in overseas locations may be important for some positions. Outline your familiarity with each country/region.

Publications: List or reference publications (or presentations at professional conferences) that demonstrate your technical expertise. In some cases, resume page limits may not allow you to list publications or presentations. However, some on-line resume capabilities include an open text "comments" field for you to provide additional information. If relevant, you may want to mention that you have published in the technical area.

Professional Licenses and Certifications: List job-related licenses and certifications.

Training Courses: Outline any professional training you may have obtained that is directly relevant to the job vacancy.

Honors, Awards, and Other Accomplishments: List any honors, awards, or other accomplishments that are job-related and demonstrate your technical expertise. For example, list professional memberships or performance awards you have received.

Clearances: It is to your advantage to indicate if you currently or previously possess(ed) a clearance (such as a Top Secret clearance).

source: intelligence.gov

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