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U.S. Office of Personnel Management - Ensuring the Federal Government has an effective civilian workforce

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Career Patterns Guide

Scenario: Term
Dominant Dimension: Permanence

Term Scenario


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Scenario Description

Typical applicants under the Term scenario are those who seek to hold a position in the Government for a specific responsibility over a short period of time (less than 5 years). These people are driven by their professional interests. They require a work environment that supports short term work and has portable benefits and flexible options for location and work structure.

Term Scenario

Core Values

Work Attractors

  • Use of technology
  • Recognition
  • Diversity
  • Good work ethic
  • Work-life balance
  • Portable benefits
  • Goal-oriented projects
  • Competitive compensation

Human Resources Policies/Programs To Leverage

  • Temporary and Term Appointments
  • Excepted Appointing Authorities5
  • Flexible Work Schedules and Leave Flexibilities
  • Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) Mobility Program
  • Reinstatement Eligibility (if applicable)
  • Superior Qualifications and Special Needs Pay-Setting Authority
  • Benefits for Part-Time, Temporary Limited, Seasonal, or Intermittent

Supports Recruitment

Supports Retention

  • Develop recruiting outreach programs in professional organizations
  • Promote the U.S. Government’s generous benefits package
  • Include specific projects in announcement
  • Recognize value of non-Federal work
  • Use hiring flexibilities
  • Help employee maintain work/life balance
  • Recognize contributions

5 e.g., the Federal Career Intern Program and Student Career Experience Program/

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