Attracting the Next Generation (PDF)

Who are Federal Agencies hiring to fill entry-level positions? Why do they come to work for the Federal Government? What were they looking for in a job? These questions form the basis for this MSPB report. Ultimately, the results of this study demonstrate that the Federal Government can more ably compete for entry-level new hires than some of the contemporary research suggests, but there is much room for growth. The Chairman notes, "there are some troublesome trends that could thwart merit-based hiring over time." MSPB makes a number of recommendations that agencies and Federal policy makers should consider when reflecting on how to improve the Federal hiring process. Federal agencies, especially Human Capital managers and hiring specialists, plus Federal employees, department heads, and others involved within the hiring process of new Federal employee staff. Students pursuing research in the fields of Human Resources, Public Administration, and Industrial-Organizational Psychology may also find this resource helpful relating to civil service hiring practices and matters. Members of Congress, the staff at Office of Management and Budget and Office of Personnel Management may find this report beneficial in reviewing and developing practices and policies as a reference document.