[ID:0896]There are no special rules for government interviews. You can prepare for them as you would any others: extensive research, self-evaluation and confidence-building!

Interviews

Like most managers, federal managers usually interview applicants before deciding who to hire. Most federal agencies work on a ‘rule of three’ policy in which only the best three candidates are selected for interviews.

Learn more about the job by visiting the agency Web site, skimming its publications and mission statements, and reviewing its organizational chart. You also should review the job announcement and your application. Hiring managers look for applicants who are knowledgeable about their agencies – not applicants who act like “if it’s Tuesday, this must be the Transportation Department.” So before each interview, educate yourself about your target agency by reviewing its Web site. Be sure to peruse the agency’s mission statement, annual report and recent press releases. Try to determine the challenges and achievements of the agency and be aware of the latest news about the...