Explore how your federal experience as a Communications Clerical (GS-0394) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
---|---|---|---|
1-4 | Data Entry Clerk, Administrative Assistant, Office Clerk | Perform basic clerical duties such as data entry, answering phones, scheduling appointments, and filing documents. Assist in the preparation of routine correspondence and reports. | $30,000 - $40,000 |
5-7 | Communications Specialist, Marketing Assistant, Project Coordinator | Support communication strategies by assisting in the creation of marketing materials, managing social media accounts, and coordinating project logistics. Engage with stakeholders to enhance communication efforts and provide administrative support. | $40,000 - $60,000 |
8-9 | Communications Manager, Public Relations Coordinator, Corporate Communications Specialist | Develop and implement communication plans, manage public relations activities, and oversee corporate communications. Analyze metrics and prepare reports to assess communication effectiveness, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. | $60,000 - $80,000 |
10-11 | Senior Communications Manager, Marketing Manager, Corporate Affairs Manager | Lead communication initiatives and strategies at an organizational level. Collaborate with executive teams to align communication efforts with business objectives, manage high-level external communications, and supervise junior staff. | $80,000 - $100,000 |
12-13 | Director of Communications, Head of Marketing, Corporate Strategy Director | Oversee the development and execution of comprehensive communication strategies across all platforms. Engage with senior leadership, manage budgets, and adapt strategies in response to market trends and organizational needs. | $100,000 - $130,000 |
14-15 | Vice President of Communications, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Executive Director of Communications | Shape the overall vision and strategy for corporate communications, driving brand awareness and stakeholder engagement. Provide strategic counsel to the executive team and ensure effective crisis communication management. | $130,000 - $180,000 |
SES | Senior Vice President of Communications, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) | Lead the organization's communication vision at the highest level, ensuring integration of communications into all business strategies. Build relationships with key stakeholders and influencers, shaping public perception and organizational reputation. | $180,000 - $250,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)
The CAP certification demonstrates proficiency in administrative skills and knowledge, including communication, project management, and office technology. This credential is recognized by employers across various sectors, showcasing your ability to handle the administrative components of communications effectively.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
While primarily focused on project management, the PMP certification emphasizes communication skills essential for coordinating projects and teams. This expertise is valuable in the civilian job market, as it highlights your capability to lead communication initiatives and manage communication-related projects efficiently.
Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)
Achieving MOS certification confirms your proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word and Excel, which are critical for most clerical and administrative roles. This expertise enhances your resume by demonstrating that you can efficiently manage documentation and communication tasks.
Certified Customer Service Professional (CCSP)
This certification covers essential communication and service skills that are vital for any clerical position, particularly in roles interacting with clients and the public. Having a CCSP credential showcases your commitment to providing excellent service and effective communication in civilian environments.
Digital Marketing Fundamentals Certificate
Understanding digital communication tools and marketing strategies can enhance the effectiveness of clerical work, especially in sectors that rely heavily on digital communications. This knowledge makes you a more competitive candidate, as many organizations seek individuals who can integrate traditional clerical skills with modern digital platforms.
Human Resources Certification (PHR or SHRM-CP)
As communications clerical roles often involve liaising with HR departments, having a certification in human resources can provide a competitive advantage. This credential signifies your understanding of HR processes and improves your communication skills within the organizational context.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a Federal GS-0394 Communications Clerical Role to Private Sector: Comprehensive Advice
Making the leap from a federal job to the private sector can be both an exciting and daunting experience. As you consider this transition, it is important to maintain a positive mindset, equip yourself with practical tools, and effectively communicate your skills and experience. Below, you'll find comprehensive advice to help you make this shift with confidence.
Broaden Your Perspective:
In the federal sector, roles may be quite narrowly defined, with a strong focus on compliance and following established protocols. In the private sector, the focus tends to be more on innovation, flexibility, and results. Approach your job search with a mindset open to new ideas and practices.
Embrace Self-Advocacy:
In the federal environment, achievements may not always be highlighted due to the structure of the workplace. In contrast, private sector jobs often rely on individual contributions and accomplishments. Be prepared to sell your strengths and articulate your achievements clearly.
Focus on Impact Over Duties:
Federal jobs often emphasize duties and responsibilities; private sector roles appreciate understanding the impact of those duties. Think about how your work contributed to the organization’s goals or improved processes.
Demystify Job Titles:
Federal job titles can be confusing to outsiders. Use descriptive language to explain your role. For instance, if you were a "Communications Clerk," you might describe yourself as a "Communications Specialist” to better reflect your skills.
Quantify Achievements:
Use numbers to add context to your achievements. For example, "Managed communication operations that supported a team of 30, resulting in a 20% increase in response efficiency."
Translate Federal Language:
Remove jargon unique to the federal system that potential employers may not understand. Instead of saying "served as an administrative assistant to a GS-15 officer," say "provided high-level administrative support to senior management."
Customize for Each Job:
Tailor your resume for each application to include keywords from the job description. This will help your resume to resonate more with hiring managers and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Prepare for Behavioral Questions:
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses to behavioral interview questions. Prepare specific examples of past work experience that highlight your skills and strengths.
Showcase Soft Skills:
Communication, organization, and team collaboration are key soft skills employers seek. Be prepared to share instances where these skills helped you excel in your role.
Research the Company Culture:
Understand the company to which you are applying—its values, mission, and culture. Tailor your responses to reflect how you fit into that culture, showing that your transition from federal to private aligns with their vision.
Ask Insightful Questions:
Asking questions at the end of the interview demonstrates your interest and enthusiasm. Inquire about team dynamics, growth opportunities, and project management styles.
Leverage LinkedIn:
Create a robust LinkedIn profile that reflect your experiences and skills in a way that resonates with private sector employers. Connect with former colleagues, industry professionals, and recruiters.
Attend Networking Events:
Engage in industry-related conferences, seminars, and local networking events. These provide opportunities to meet professionals in your targeted field, learn about job openings and gain insights into the private sector.
Reach Out to Alumni Networks:
If you attended a college or university, leverage alumni networks. Alumni can provide valuable insights and advice as well as connections in your desired industry.
Utilize Informational Interviews:
Reach out to individuals in roles or industries you’re interested in. Request informational interviews to learn more about their career paths and gather tips for your transition.
Highlight Transferable Skills:
Focus on skills like communication, project management, customer service, and data analysis. Frame your federal duties in terms of these relevant skills to show their applicability in the private sector.
Use Action Verbs:
When describing your experiences, use strong action verbs like "initiated," "developed," "coordinated," and "executed" to convey a sense of proactivity and ownership in your work.
Frame Your Contributions in Business Terms:
Think about business outcomes when describing your federal experiences. Example: Instead of "prepared reports," say "developed analytical reports that informed decision-making and improved organizational efficiency."
Transitioning from a federal position to the private sector can lead to rewarding opportunities. Remember to maintain a proactive and positive mindset throughout the process. Emphasize your accomplishments and skills in a way that speaks directly to the needs of potential employers. With a clear strategy and the right tools, you're on your way to a successful career in the private sector.