Job advice for undergraduates, especially for Capitol Hill, federal agency, and private sector jobs in Washington, DC including tips on networking, outreach, and social media.

1. George Washington University
Undergraduate School of Business
Presentation on Career Management
Strategy for Public Policy Careers
in Washington, DC
By James Callan
GWU Lecturer of Business Administration
March 27 & 28 2013

2. Personal overview: background and career
-- Variety of positions – Capitol Hill,
Associations, Public Affairs Consulting,
Federal Government, Leadership
-- Sought opportunities to learn
-- Not always by choice, but therein lies a
lesson to forge your own way

3. Network of Opportunity
-- intersection of business and government
-- Join groups, organizations enhancing
each current and future opportunity

4. “Be a Sponge”
Expand and participate in networking
opportunities on and off campus –- e.g.,
free think-tank presentations, writing; stay
current on public policy, job trends, job
sources, and connections

5. Prepare for the unexpected & be flexible
Sometimes circumstances lead you in on
unexpected path, i.e. 9/11
-- Led and managed ag aviators
-- Obtained “Plum Job” (senior Fed’l appt.)
This created speaking opportunities and
int’l relations work – both long-time goals

6. Interviewing and Networking in DC
Increase opportunities through networking, not
just letter writing or responding to postings
Go to internship events and career fairs; join
networking groups on and off campus
When interviewing, be prepared and show
readiness to work

7. Interviewing and Networking in DC (Cont.)
Attract employers in Public Relations, Public
Affairs, Associations, on Capitol Hill and in
Government by standing out, so they want you
Go the extra mile, by showing tangible
examples to get the interview: 1) Excel and
research expertise 2) analytical capabilities 3)
create your own marketing piece

8. The Job Search – Step One
Apply through multiple sources
Use the internet, but also print ads,
trade publications, and job fairs
Personal contact IS key – and, do not
hesitate to make a cold call

9. The Job Search – Step Two
Remember: many jobs are not advertised
Don’t worry about a still recovering economy,
but be willing to wear out shoe leather and
“Walk the halls” -- Go door-to-door and carry a
resume with you –- this works on Capitol Hill,
where “just in time” rules; take to the streets
Supplement with USAJobs.gov, Indeed.com,
BradTraverse.com & GWorkSB.com

10. Tip 1: FOR FEDERAL AGENCY JOBS
Set-up job alerts with the key U.S.
government Web site: USAJobs.gov. In
concert, research the new Federal "Pathway
programs" designed for recent graduates --
supplement with one-on-one contacts at
individual Agency HR Departments

11. Tip 2: FOR CAPITOL HILL JOBS
Identify and research Members of Congress
and Committees; start with your own
Member’s office – expand from there. Call
congressional conference committees to
obtain contact lists – ask about events to
meet Members looking for staff. Contact
anyone you know in politics to help.

12. Tip 3: FOR LOBBYING JOBS
View these key periodicals and their Web sites --
Roll Call, The Hill, and Politico -- for job
opportunities and set up job alerts; identify on
LinkedIn the various lobbying groups/related job
portals that you can access and join
Search by issue to see who is taking the lead

13. Social Media Tips In a Political Town
Use Facebook for your friendships, but be
careful what you say or post – negative
postings can hurt; political, but not activist
Use LinkedIn for your job search, Twitter for
occasional announcements; start a policy blog
Post a photo of yourself in business attire

14. **In Conclusion**
√ Expand your network in DC
√ Develop a range of contacts
√ Engage in multiple activities
√ Walk the halls/take to the streets
√ Show willingness and readiness to work
√ Watch your social media
√ Personal contact is key in DC
Questions?
jamescallan@msn.com ~ 703-577-1978