I heard recently about a local private sector leader who is very skeptical of hiring public sector folks.  Many public sector employees are looking for work right now nationwide due to the recent election and various changes of administration.  This prejudice seems so unfounded to me, as I know many public sector employees who are exactly the kind of people I’d want to hire.  I hope that this person and others like her will reconsider their misconceptions and interview some of these potential candidates.

Here’s five reasons why public sector employees are great hires:

1. Loyalty - Public sector employees are trained to protect their agency or organization.  Especially at the senior staff level, you will find employees who know how to give 100% support to leadership regardless of their personal opinions.
2. Management Skills - Many public sector employees have the opportunity to manage people.  This often means they have extensive experience with hiring and firing, disciplining staff, working with unions, and keeping up on HR rules and laws.  These employees are not scared of managing and generally know how to work with levels above and below them to keep the peace and move things forward.
3. Crisis Control - Whether it’s handling a crisis communications situation or preparing a pandemic flu plan, public sector employees are experienced in preparedness.  These employees can help you navigate through unexpected challenges, keeping your business running smoothly and your reputation intact.  I’ve never met a group of communications professionals who were more adept at handling investigative reporters than those in the public sector.  Any normal business would be astounded by the number of media calls and records requests we receive monthly (hundreds.)
4. Big Picture Perspective - Public sector employees know that they are employed to serve their constituency, whether that means a nation, state, city, etc.  We are constantly reminded of the true purpose of our work.  These employees also have to regularly balance the wants and needs of stakeholders, legislators, and partners in with those of citizens.  Public sector employees will understand that you have multiple reporting lines, a board, stakeholders, lawyers, employees, and customers all in the mix and it won’t faze them.
5. Commitment - Employees in the public sector generally don’t job hop every year.  They look for stable job opportunities where they can do good work and be treated fairly for a competitive wage.  They value good benefits and reasonable work hours.  This is not to say they won’t work more than a 40 hour work week—public sector employees have the same challenges as private sector.  We have outreach events, projects, or crises that keep us late into the evening.  All we generally want is recognition for our commitment and praise for a job well done.  Not so much to ask to gain a stable, loyal, committed employee.

These five reasons are based on my personal experience.  What else would you add?  I know there are even more reasons why public sector employees can be tremendous assets in other sectors.