By John Buckner
Federal News Radio

The Office of Personnel Management says it has succeeded in providing agencies with the help they need to meet President Barack Obama’s mandate to reform the federal hiring process.

Citizens who apply for jobs now will be matched with similar job options they are qualified for and notified in key steps of the application process said Rob Shriver, senior legal counsel to the Hiring Team in a video on OPM’s website.

OPM has made many changes to the system including the use of a blog to connect human resources professionals. OPM also is pushing to involve hiring managers from the beginning of the application process.

In order to help agencies implement the changes effectively, OPM has set up Mobile Assistance Teamsto work directly with the agencies.

Last May, President Obama announced these hiring system changes:

• Pathways for students and recent graduates
• Elimination of written essays (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities or KSAs)
• Resume and cover letter
• Category rating
• Manager accountability and involvement
• Quality and speed of hiring
• Applicant notification

OPM also is offering a variety of hiring reform workshops to facilitate the process.

John Buckner is an intern with Federal News Radio.

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