The federal public service (FPS) of Canada is undergoing a major renewal as thousands of baby boomers are poised to retire. This massive exodus is unprecedented in the FPS and is creating many new job opportunities. There are now so many jobs to be filled that hiring managers are increasingly looking to external recruits. Yet, despite this demand, getting hired from outside the FPS-as with any large bureaucracy-can remain a challenge.

In Ready, Set, Hired! Charles Seems shares the knowledge and insights he has acquired from more than a quarter century of working in human resources for the FPS. In plain English, he explains the FPS hiring process and provides proven techniques on how to draft applications that will attract favourable notice, prepare for tests, and perform well during interviews. The comprehensive appendix includes samples of job advertisements, statement of merit criteria, résumés, covering letters, notices of consideration and appointment, as well as a glossary of commonly used terms, a listing of occupational groups, and an explanation of official languages qualifications.