Department of Family Services Alert:

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

703-533-5400 TTY 711

DFSWorkforceDevelopment@fairfaxcounty.gov

Virginia Career Works – Fairfax Annandale Center - 7611 Little River Turnpike (West Wing) Suite 300W
Annandale, VA 22003

Lisa Tatum
Director

Department Resources

Related Resources

Navigating Employment Transitions: Resources for Residents Affected by Federal Workforce Reductions

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Over 50,000 federal employees and contractors live in Fairfax County, many of whom may be affected by federal workforce reductions. Here are some resources to support residents and their families during a time of transition.

State and Local Resources

View a complete listing of Fairfax County resources for residents affected by federal workforce actions.
Learn more about Virginia state resources for impacted federal workers.

Financial Assistance

Need health insurance? You may be eligible to enroll through the Virginia Insurance Marketplace if you have a qualifying life event like losing health coverage. Learn more about other options such as Medicaid and free or low-cost healthcare options in Fairfax County.
If you are having trouble meeting a local tax deadline, contact Tax Administration to learn about payment options.
Looking for food, medical, child care, and other assistance? Learn more about our Health and Human Services programs that provide essential resources and support for you and your family.
Small businesses needing assistance can contact the Department of Economic Initiatives, the County's small business and entrepreneurial assistance network. The Fairfax Economic Development Authority also offers services and support for small businesses.
Filing for Unemployment Benefits: To receive unemployment insurance benefits, you need to file a claim with the unemployment insurance program in the state where you worked. Depending on the state, claims may be filed in person, by telephone, or online. Where to file in the tri-state area:

Quick Tips: Getting your Federal Resume Ready for a Career Outside the Federal Government

This webinar shares crucial tips for updating your federal resume for a career outside the federal government. Use these strategies to make your experience relevant and appealing to non-federal employers across public and private sectors.

Employment Resources

Entering the civilian workforce after employment with the federal government can be overwhelming, but there are resources in Fairfax County to ease the transition and open opportunities. From starting your initial job search to securing the spot with a strong interview, Fairfax County Employment Services is here to support your next step.

Using a few key strategies in your job search and application process can make a big difference in your success. Our Career Specialists can assist you with each of these steps, no matter where you are in the process:

Understand the Differences:
- Recognize the differences in non-federal job markets, including hiring processes, job classifications, and workplace cultures.
- Learn about current trends, demands, and opportunities in the civilian job market.
Translate Your Experience:
- Avoid overly- specific jargon and acronyms. Use clear language and spell out acronyms when needed.
- Highlight transferable skills such as project management, leadership, and communication.
Update Your Resume:
- Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., "increased efficiency by 20%").
- Tailor your resume for each job application to match the job description.
Leverage Your Network:
- Reach out to former colleagues, friends, and professional contacts for job leads and advice.
- Join professional associations and attend networking events in your desired industry.
- Utilize LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals and showcase your skills and experience.
Prepare for Interviews:
- Practice common interview questions and develop strong, concise answers.
- Prepare to explain why you are transitioning out of the federal workforce; use the opportunity to frame it as a positive career move.
Research Potential Employers:
- Tailor your application materials to align with the employer’s goals and culture.
- Look beyond the private sector--consider state and local governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions.
Pursue Additional Training:
- Consider obtaining certifications or taking courses relevant to your desired industry.
- Demonstrating a commitment to continued learning can make you a more attractive candidate.
Stay Positive and Persistent:
- Job searching can be a lengthy process, so stay motivated and persistent.
- Take time to care for yourself, as significant life changes can bring additional stress to your life.
- Keep a positive attitude and learn from any rejections to improve your future applications.

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