January 12, 2019: Why would young college graduates want to work for the Government now?

People are attracted to Federal Government jobs now because they want to serve the country but also because they perceive the benefits and stability of Government service. However, with the partial Government shutdown now entering into its fourth week (the longest shutdown ever!), where is the sense of stability. As I’ve mentioned earlier, I’m near the end of my Federal career, have funds stashed away, my child is grown and independent, and my only debt is my mortgage. However, for young people just getting started, with student debt and for slightly older workers with children to raise, daycare costs, and the like — what is the attraction to taking a job that might mean having your paycheck held hostage to political maneuvers?

I work in an office with a lot of Millennials in their early 30s. They are settling down, marrying, having babies. I’m wondering how many of them are looking for jobs in the private or nonprofit sector at this moment, brushing up their resumes and sending them out? How many will be leaving Federal service in the next few months? And who will replace them?