The Return to Normal Won’t Fix Your Federal Career Rut
Why so many federal employees rethink their future after a shutdown and how to turn that momentum into a concrete path toward higher-earning tech roles
With the government shutdown finally concluded, I imagine a collective sigh of relief echoes through federal offices. How many federal employees truly feel excited about returning to their jobs? How many were close to making a change? How many have put those plans back on the shelf?
Disruptions, such as shutdowns, highlight an often-overlooked reality: the stability of federal jobs can provide a false sense of security. After all, remaining in the same position can be just as risky as exploring new opportunities. While I was in government, I had plenty of colleagues flirting with a departure, especially during a professional crisis, large or small. However, they quickly reverted to accepting the status quo once a bit of normalcy returned.
During those tense weeks, transition felt both possible and essential. It was a time to pack up skills gained in bureaucracy and explore outside the confines of public service. Many considered roles in dynamic industries like tech, where innovation occurs rapidly and pay aligns with ambition. Now, there’s no more speculation about escape routes.
Direct deposits resume hitting accounts without fail. Step increases keep occurring on schedule. The pension grows steadily in the background, and calendar pages flip. Comfort takes root. Drive stangants. Fullfillment of potential dwindles a little more each day.
It’s natural to favor the familiar path. But crises offer prime chances to reassess. Begin with the basics. Connect on LinkedIn with former colleagues who have successfully transitioned. Scout positions in emerging companies where a security clearance gives an edge. Clarify the steps required to land an offer.
Act now before another shutdown floods the market. Industry leaders often value federal experience, particularly skills such as structured thinking under pressure, mastering complex systems and proven reliability when the stakes are high. This can open doors to exciting opportunities, such as stock options, remote work and rapid career growth. Staying in USG provides consistency, but exploring new paths could reignite your ambitions. Consider making that move today!
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