Author Archives: Don Whiteside

Like many job seekers, you have probably received conflicting advice about preparing your resume. What is a reasonable length (number of pages)? Should you include a picture of yourself? What fonts and font sizes are acceptable? What is the correct file format and size for a resume? Until now, such details may not have resulted in an automatic rejection when applying for many jobs. However, back on September 27, 2025, the United States government implemented numerous new requirements mandated by executive orders that determine whether your resume will be accepted or rejected immediately when applying for a federal position. Before covering the resume requirements, first, we will explore how job seekers find and apply for positions with the federal government.

Odds are you probably already know the routine. You search all the online postings for your dream job. You complete the online application and upload your resume, as well as any other required documents. Since you are highly qualified with excellent educational credentials, a solid work history, and impressive references, you feel confident about your chances of being invited to interview for this position. And then… nothing. Weeks pass and still nothing. What happened? You may have just applied for a “ghost job.”

Why would an employer do that?

Seems like a waste, right? After all, it takes time and likely costs them money to list these fictitious openings on the various popular job search sites. Although you and I may feel that posting non-existent positions that encourage job seekers to apply is cruel and even unethical, it appears (at least for now) not to be illegal. A company may feel posting these phony jobs is justified for the following reasons: Continue reading →