A new issue brief from the Partnership for Public Service says 8.5 percent of the federal workforce is under 30 compared to 23.2 percent of the U.S. workforce overall and it argues there aren’t enough employees under 30 in the ranks.
Competing with the private and non-profit sectors for recent college graduates requires a better understanding of how this younger generation views federal jobs, according to the issue brief, available here: http://ourpublicservice.org/OPS/
The brief draws conclusions based on a student survey from the National Association of Colleges and Employers and finds an interest in government service, but PPS says federal agencies need to address challenges in order to attract top graduates.
That includes a need to better explain the federal job application process to college students and help them navigate that process.
Federal recruiters must actively engage recruits and help them navigate the application process, and emphasize the opportunity for personal growth and development that government service provides, according to PPS.
It recommended that agencies use student internships and volunteer opportunities to maintain interest, work to create a workplace culture that is attractive to this younger generation, and to use the agency mission and opportunities for growth to attract science, technology and engineering talent.
