5 Ways to Hire Federal Experts in GovCon

In the world of government contracting (GovCon), the ability to quickly and effectively hire federal experts can be the difference between winning and losing a contract. The stakes are high, with agencies expecting innovative solutions and deep expertise from contractors. Yet, the process of sourcing and engaging the right talent remains a significant challenge for many companies.

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With increasing competition and the need for specialized skills like climate finance, cybersecurity, and AI, here are the top five ways to hire federal experts in GovCon to help your company stand out and secure that next big win.

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1. Leverage Expert Networks

Using purpose built expert intelligence platforms like OnFrontiers is one of the most efficient ways to find specialized talent in GovCon. These platforms provide on-demand access to a broad range of professionals who have in-depth knowledge of federal contracting requirements, specific agency needs, and technical skills that can strengthen your proposal. Expert networks allow you to:

• Quickly source and onboard professionals with specific expertise often under 48 hours
• Building long lasting relationships with experts from different agencies such as USAID, DOD, DOI etc., 
• Reduce time-to-hire compared to traditional recruitment processes 
• Gain a competitive edge by enhancing the quality of your proposals with top-tier expertise

These networks act as a bridge between your company and niche experts, allowing you to scale your capabilities without the financial burden of full-time hires.

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2. Build an In-House Bench of Experts

For companies with longer-term strategies in GovCon, building an in-house bench of federal experts can be a game-changer. While it requires a more significant initial investment, having a dedicated team of experts ready to step in at any moment ensures you can respond to RFPs (Request for Proposals) faster and with greater precision. Focus on recruiting professionals with:

• Cross-functional skills that can be applied across different contracts.
• Experience in your target agencies to increase credibility in proposals.
• A proven track record in high-demand areas like cybersecurity, climate finance, or AI.

An in-house bench provides stability, deep institutional knowledge, and can help build long-term relationships with federal agencies by consistently delivering high-quality solutions.

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3. Engage Retired Federal Employees and Agency Alumni

Retired federal employees and agency alumni represent a valuable talent pool with unique insights into government processes and decision-making. They bring a wealth of knowledge about the inner workings of specific agencies, including procurement procedures, compliance requirements, and stakeholder expectations. To attract this group:

• Highlight your company’s mission and its alignment with their desire to continue making an impact.
• Offer flexible work arrangements, as many retired professionals prefer consulting roles or part-time engagements.
• Provide competitive compensation that reflects their expertise and years of experience.

Engaging these experts can significantly increase your credibility in the eyes of federal agencies, often leading to better proposal scores and higher chances of winning contracts.

However, breaking into the alumni network is not always easy. Many contractors are better off using platforms like OnFrontiers to reach out to experts that can’t be reached by traditional means.

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4. Collaborate with Industry Associations and Professional Groups

Participating in industry associations and professional groups like the National Contract Management Association (NCMA), Professional Services Council (PSC), ACT-IAC, or specific agency-related forums is a powerful way to connect with federal experts. These networks can help you:

• Gain insights into industry trends and best practices.
• Build relationships with thought leaders and professionals who have a direct influence on government contracts.
• Access a talent pool of specialists who are already engaged with the GovCon community.

Networking within these circles can lead to referrals and introductions to the right experts who can make a tangible difference in your proposal strategy and execution.

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5. Use Your Own Network and LinkedIn for Research

Don’t underestimate the power of your own network and the reach of LinkedIn when searching for federal experts. Often, the best talent can be found through personal connections or targeted outreach on professional platforms. Here’s how you can make the most of these resources:

• Tap into Existing Contacts: Start by reaching out to colleagues, industry peers, and former coworkers who may have recommendations for specialists with federal experience. Personal referrals often lead to quicker hiring and a higher level of trust
• Leverage LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to research professionals with specific expertise relevant to your project needs. Utilize advanced search features to filter candidates by their experience in federal contracting, relevant agencies, and technical skills.

By effectively using your own network and LinkedIn, you can uncover hidden talent pools and engage with experts who may not be actively looking but are open to new opportunities. 

This approach is time consuming however and if you are working on time bound projects, using an expert intelligence platform like OnFrontiers with your own personal concierge to find experts would be your best bet.

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Final Thoughts

The GovCon industry is more competitive than ever, and the need for specialized expertise is crucial to winning federal contracts. By leveraging expert networks, building an in-house bench, engaging retired federal employees, participating in industry associations, and partnering with specialized recruitment firms, you can ensure your company has the talent it needs to stand out in a crowded field.

If you'd like to give OnFrontiers a try, request a consultation here.