Contact 1 Blog

DC staffing news, resources, and industry insights from the Contact 1 team

How to Find Real Stability in D.C.’s Shifting Job Market: Contract vs. Direct Hire

When most professionals start weighing contract vs permanent employment options, they often assume one option (hint: it’s direct hire) offers more stability. Probably because somewhere along the line, a guidance counselor or well-meaning parent told them that the direct hire roles are more permanent and, thus, offer a stronger foundation to build a career. But […]

 

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How to Apply for Government Jobs Without Clearance: A Candidate Guide

Strong candidates apply to federal roles every day, but many don’t get the traction they expect. In many cases, candidates strengthen their position by how they show up throughout the process. Responsiveness, alignment with the role, and the completeness and accuracy of the application can make a meaningful difference, especially early on. There’s also a […]

 

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AI, Automation & Human Oversight in Government Hiring

AI is becoming a common part of the hiring conversation. Across industries, organizations are exploring how automation can streamline recruiting, manage larger applicant pools, and improve efficiency throughout the hiring process. The same shift is happening in government hiring, where agencies and contractors are experimenting with AI tools to support candidate sourcing, resume organization, and […]

 

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Hybrid Work Expectations: Bridging the Gap Between Employers and Employees

Hybrid work has moved past the experimental phase. For many organizations, it’s simply how work gets done. What hasn’t settled as neatly are the expectations around it. Employers and employees often assume they’re aligned, only to encounter friction once the work begins. Many of the challenges tied to hybrid work don’t stem from the model […]

 

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The Skills That Will Define Success in 2026

January is often a moment to pause and take stock of professional goals. As candidates think about what comes next, success in 2026 is increasingly shaped by the skills people build and refine over time. Hiring expectations continue to evolve, particularly in government and regulated environments where roles are becoming more specialized. While experience remains […]

 

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