How to Leave a State Job for the Private Sector

Refrain from making negative statements about your current employer when interviewing with a potential employer.

Working in a state job, also referred to as a public sector job, affords many benefits. Most state systems have excellent retirement programs. State jobs are known to offer good health benefits, job stability, several paid holidays, paid personal time off, good work environments and career advancement. Leaving a state job and the benefits that go with it is a difficult decision. When considering a job offer in the private sector, ensure that the health insurance and retirement benefit options are to your satisfaction as they may not be comparable to the benefits you have currently with your state job.

Instructions

1. Prepare a resume or pay a resume preparer to assist you. It is a good idea to secure a private sector job before leaving your state job. Visit the websites of companies that interest you to view available job openings. Apply for positions for which you are qualified. When contacted by a potential employer for an interview, try to select a time that is during your lunch hour or a scheduled day off so as not to interfere with your state job.

2. Volunteer. Volunteering at private sector companies during your off-time is a good way to become familiar with a potential employer. Establish a network of contacts at the company by networking while performing volunteer work. Volunteering also allows a company to become familiar with you and your skill set. Keep an eye out for job openings and apply. The company's familiarity with you and your skills could give you an advantage over other applicants.

3. Search for private sector job openings in the classified section of your local newspaper. Search reputable online job sites such as Monster, CareerBuilder and FlipDog. Apply for positions that are compatible with your skill set and level of education.

4. Submit a letter of resignation to your state employer upon securing a position in the private sector. If you are paid on a monthly basis, many state employers prefer a 30-day notice. If you are paid every two weeks, many state employers prefer a two-week notice. Continue to work the duration of the notice period. It is important to leave the state employer on good terms so that you can possibly return if the private sector position does not work out as planned. An abrupt resignation from your state job may cause you to be ineligible for rehire.

References

• The Sunday Times: Moving between the private and public sectors
• Personnel Today: Private sector jobs must be encouraged in cities reliant on public sector, Centre for Cities warns

Resources

• Monster
• Careerbuilder
• Flipdog