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The Postal 991 form, officially known as the Application for Promotion or Assignment, is a crucial document for individuals seeking advancement or transfer within the Postal Service. This form guides applicants through summarizing their education, work experience, and skills relevant to the vacant position they are pursuing. When filling out this form, candidates are prompted to list their educational achievements and work experience in an organized manner, helping evaluators quickly assess their qualifications against the job requirements laid out in the vacancy announcement. It’s vital for applicants to address each requirement listed in the announcement thoroughly. Each response should not only cite their qualifications but also provide concrete examples of specific achievements that demonstrate their knowledge, skills, or abilities. Achievements can stem from various contexts, including paid positions, volunteer work, or educational experiences. Clear and concise descriptions of tasks undertaken, actions taken, and results achieved are essential for illustrating their suitability for the position. Throughout this process, candidates must remember that their interpretation of the requirements should be detailed enough to ensure that evaluators can easily understand and validate their claims. This form is a representation of an applicant's professional journey and should be treated as an opportunity to effectively communicate their qualifications. Moreover, adherence to specific instructions is necessary, including the avoidance of attaching transcripts or letters of recommendation. Understanding the implications of the Privacy Act and the importance of truthful representation is equally crucial when submitting the form.

Postal 991 Example

Application for Promotion or Assignment

This application provides the evaluator a summary of your education, work experience, and capabilities that pertain to the vacant position to which you are applying. List your education or training and work experience in the spaces provided. Number your entries consecutively in the Reference No. columns, e.g., education or training 1-6, postal positions 7-10.

The vacancy announcement to which you are responding lists the job requirements. In this application, you provide your qualifications as they apply to those requirements.

Your statement of qualification should include a demonstration of the required knowledge, skill, or ability. All of the requirements in the vacancy announcement should be addressed. If you do not address each requirement, you will have an incomplete application. This may cause you to be found unqualified.

Read each of the requirements listed on the vacancy announcement. Consider carefully your achievements which demonstrate the specified requirement. An achievement may be either a specific instance or sustained high performance over a period of time. These achievements may have occurred in all kinds of settings, e.g., paid work in the Postal Service or any other organization, volunteer work, education, training activities. For each requirement, try to give several examples of achievements that demonstrate you have the knowledge, skill, or ability being addressed. We recommend describing achievements by (1) telling of a situation or task which needed to be done; (2) stating what action you took; and (3) describing the result of that action. Be sure it is clear to the evaluator that:

1.What you are describing demonstrates the requirement.

2.The situation, action, and result are fully described.

3.You were in some way responsible for the result.

4.If you displayed initiative or innovation, you have shown this.

If your achievement was the acquisition of education or training, then your achievement description should indicate the following:

1.What you learned and how that learning relates to the knowledge, skill, or ability specified in the requirement.

2.Details or nature of the course, e.g., topics covered, level of complexity.

3.Evidence of the quality of your performance in the course, if available. Simply mentioning that you took a course will not show you gained any knowledge from it.

4.Any application of what you learned.

The content of your description is more important than your writing style. You must communicate to the evaluator how you have demonstrated the requirement. Be specific about what you did. Saying that you possess a requirement is not an adequate description.

When you write your achievement descriptions, you should assume that the evaluator does not know anything about you. After each achievement description, indicate the reference person(s) who could verify your achievements. Your supervisor may also be contacted to verify any work- related statements you write. Indicate for each achievement the reference number of your education or training, or work experience connected to your achievements.

Notes to Applicant

1.This form is to be used when applying for duty assignments that require you to describe your knowledge, skills, and abilities as they apply to the vacancy.

2.Copy page 3, Statement of Qualifications, and use a separate page 3 for each requirement.

3.Do not attach transcripts or recommendations to this application.

4.After completing this form, fill in the “Requirements Page __ of __” item at the bottom right corner of each copy of page 3.

THE LAW (39 U.S. CODE 1002) PROHIBITS POLITICAL AND CERTAIN OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS FOR APPOINTMENTS, PROMOTIONS, ASSIGNMENTS, TRANSFERS, OR DESIGNATIONS OF PERSONS IN THE POSTAL SERVICE. Statements relating solely to character and residence are permitted, but every other kind of statement or recommendation is prohibited unless it either is requested by the Postal Service and consists solely of an evaluation of the work performance, ability, aptitude, and general qualifications of an individual or is requested by a Government representative investigating the individual’s loyalty, suitability, and character. Anyone who requests or solicits a prohibited statement or recommendation is subject to disqualification from the Postal Service and anyone in the Postal Service who accepts such a statement may be suspended or removed from office.

PRIVACY ACT STATEMENT

Your information will be used for consideration of employment, promotion or reassignment. Collection is authorized by 39 U.S.C. 401, 410, 1001, 1005, and 1206. Providing the information is voluntary, but if not provided, you may not receive full consideration. We may only disclose your information as follows: in relevant legal proceedings; to law enforcement when the USPS or requesting agency becomes aware of a violation of law; to a congressional office at your request; to entities or individuals under contract with USPS; to entities authorized to perform audits; to labor organizations as required by law; to federal, state, local or foreign govern- ment agencies regarding personnel matters; to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission; and to the Merit Systems Protec- tion Board or Office of Special Counsel. For more information regarding our privacy policies, visit www.usps.com/privacypolicy.

WARNING: ANY PERSON WHO KNOWINGLY SUBMITS A FALSE STATEMENT TO THE POSTAL SERVICE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CRIMINAL AND/OR CIVIL PENALTIES.

Detached from PS Form 991, June 2014

Applicant Information

Name (Last, First, MI)

Title of Present Position

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing Address

Name and Location of Employing Office

 

 

 

 

 

 

Home Phone Number (Area Code)

Work Phone Number (Area Code/PEN)

Employee ID Number

Grade

Years of Service

 

 

 

 

 

Information About Vacant Position

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vacancy Announcement Number

Closing Date

Position Applied For

 

Grade

 

 

 

 

 

Name of Vacancy Office

Location of Vacancy Office

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Education/Training

Ref. No.

Date (Mo./Yr.)

From To

Name of Educational Institution

(Address Not Required)

Major Fields of Study

No. of Credits (Hours)

Semester Quarter

Type of Degree

Date

Ref. No.

High School

From

To

Name of Postal or Other Training Facility

Course Name

Postal Positions

Ref. No.

Date (Mo./Yr.)

From

To

 

 

 

Present

List permanent positions first, then temporary/detail assignments of 30 or more consecutive days. List in reverse chronological order. Use additional space on page 2, if necessary.

Position Title

Name & Location of Organization

Grade

PS Form 991, June 2014 (Page 1 of 3)

Nonpostal Positions

Ref. No.

Date (Mo./Yr.)

From

To

 

 

 

 

List permanent positions first, then temporary/detail assignments of 30 or more consecutive days. List in reverse chronological order. Use additional space below, if necessary.

Position Title

Grade or

Name & Location of Organization

Salary

 

 

 

 

 

Use this additional space in completing Postal and Nonpostal Positions information. You may also use the space to list any special assignments, projects, civic and professional organizations, awards, honors, special skills, etc.

Application must be received at vacancy office by closing date.

I hereby certify that the foregoing information is true, complete, and accurate, to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Signature of Employee/Applicant

Date

PS Form 991, June 2014 (Page 2 of 3)

Name

Statement of Qualifications

Announcement Number

Position Applied For

Applicant position requirements are listed on the vacancy announcement. Enter the requirement in the space provided and explain your qualifications in reference to the requirement. It is recommended that you use a situation/task-action-result format to describe your qualifications.

APPLICANT - COPY THIS PAGE. USE ONE PAGE PER REQUIREMENT.

Requirement

Reference Number Reference Name & Phone Number (For use of evaluator & selector)

 

PS Form 991, June 2014 (Page 3 of 3)

Requirements Page ___ of ___

 
Get Postal 991 PDF Form

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The Postal 991 form is an application used for promotions or assignments within the Postal Service, summarizing qualifications related to a vacant position.
Content Structure The form requires applicants to provide details about their education, work experience, and relevant qualifications matched to job requirements.
Evaluation Criteria Completeness is key; failing to address each job requirement can lead to an incomplete application and potentially being marked unqualified.
Achievement Description Applicants should use a situation-task-action-result format to describe achievements, clearly linking them to the specified requirements.
Legal Compliance Under 39 U.S. Code 1002, certain recommendations for appointments or promotions in the Postal Service are prohibited to ensure a fair evaluation process.
Privacy Act Information provided on the form is protected under the Privacy Act, and may only be disclosed for specified legal and administrative purposes.
Signature Requirement Applicants must certify that all information provided is accurate and complete by signing the form, affirming responsibility for the details submitted.

Guidelines on Utilizing Postal 991

Filling out the Postal 991 form requires careful attention to detail and a good understanding of your qualifications as they relate to the job you are applying for. This process involves summarizing your education, work experience, and skills to align with specific requirements outlined in the vacancy announcement.

  1. Begin by ensuring you have the form at hand. Gather all necessary information such as your employment history, education details, and personal contact information.
  2. In the section for Applicant Information, fill in your name, present position title, mailing address, home and work phone numbers, employee ID number, your grade, and years of service.
  3. Next, provide details about the vacant position. Include the vacancy announcement number, closing date, the position you are applying for, and its office location.
  4. Move on to the Education/Training section. List your educational experience in reverse chronological order. Provide the reference number, dates attended (from/to), name of the institution, major fields of study, number of credits, type of degree, and the date you obtained the degree.
  5. After that, document your Postal positions. Again, use reverse chronological order, and include all details like position title, name of the organization, and grade.
  6. Continue by listing any Nonpostal positions using the same structure as above.
  7. Utilize any additional space to highlight special assignments, projects, civic involvement, professional organizations, awards, honors, and special skills that may be relevant.
  8. Make sure to complete the Statement of Qualifications section, where you must enter each requirement from the vacancy announcement. Clearly explain how your qualifications meet each requirement using the situation-task-action-result format.
  9. Provide reference numbers for each achievement and include the names and phone numbers of individuals who can verify your qualifications.
  10. Ensure that you fill in the “Requirements Page __ of __” at the bottom right corner of every additional page of the Statement of Qualifications.
  11. Finally, sign and date the application certifying that the information is true and complete to the best of your knowledge.

With your completed Postal 991 form, you can submit it to the appropriate vacancy office by the closing date. Make sure to keep a copy for your records. Good luck with your application!

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the Postal 991 form, and when should I use it?

The Postal 991 form is an application used by employees of the United States Postal Service when applying for promotions or duty assignments. It acts as a summary of your qualifications, including your education, work experience, and abilities that relate to the position you are interested in. Use this form whenever you are responding to a vacancy announcement that requires a detailed description of how your skills meet the job requirements outlined in that announcement.

How should I structure my achievements in the application?

Your achievements should be described using a simple format known as situation-task-action-result (STAR). First, explain the situation or task at hand. Next, describe the action you took to address it. Lastly, share the result of your action. This structure helps to clearly communicate your qualifications to the evaluator. It is crucial to be specific and provide multiple examples for each requirement, as vague statements may leave your application incomplete and potentially lead to being deemed unqualified.

What are the key points I need to remember when filling out the form?

When completing the Postal 991 form, focus on the following key points: address each requirement from the vacancy announcement specifically, avoid attaching transcripts or recommendations, and ensure you provide a separate page for each requirement if necessary. Be clear about the role you played in each achievement, and make it easy for the evaluator to verify your statements by identifying reference contacts. Remember, the quality of your descriptions matters more than the writing style itself.

Are there any privacy concerns I should be aware of when submitting this form?

Yes, there are privacy considerations when submitting the Postal 991 form. Your information is collected for the purpose of considering your application for employment, promotion, or reassignment. While providing information is voluntary, failure to do so may impact your application’s consideration. Your data may be disclosed under specific circumstances, such as legal proceedings, law enforcement inquiries, or audits. For more information about your privacy rights and how your information is handled, you can visit the USPS privacy policy webpage.

Common mistakes

Completing the Postal 991 form is an essential step in your application process, yet many applicants make avoidable mistakes that can hinder their chances of success. One common error involves neglecting to address all the specific requirements listed in the vacancy announcement. Each requirement is an opportunity to showcase your qualifications. Failing to provide examples for every requirement leaves the evaluator with an incomplete picture of your skills and experiences. Such omissions can lead to an unqualified status.

Another frequent mistake occurs during the description of achievements. Many applicants mention their experiences but do not clearly connect them to the stated requirements. Clarity is crucial; it’s important to specify how your actions fulfill each requirement. The situation-action-result format is a practical way to present your achievements. Skipping this structured approach can confuse the evaluator about your qualifications and contributions.

Some individuals also overlook the importance of including reference names and numbers. Without these details, the evaluator may not be able to verify your claims, which can significantly impact how your application is perceived. Providing incomplete references may raise doubts about the authenticity of your achievements and experiences. Ensure that every achievement description is accompanied by relevant reference information to bolster your application.

Lastly, many applicants fail to review their forms carefully before submission. Simple errors, such as typos or incorrect dates, can undermine the professionalism of your application. These mistakes may signal to the evaluator that you lack attention to detail or are not fully committed to the process. Take time to proofread your application, ensuring that everything is accurate and clearly presented. A polished submission reflects your seriousness and readiness for the position.

Documents used along the form

When completing the Postal 991 form for promotion or assignment within the Postal Service, several other forms and documents may be required to support the application. Each serves a unique purpose in conveying the applicant’s qualifications, experiences, and reference checks, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation process. The following is a list of commonly used documents that accompany the Postal 991 form.

  • Resume: A detailed overview of the applicant’s work history, education, skills, and accomplishments. The resume complements the information in the Postal 991 form by providing a broader context of the applicant's qualifications.
  • Cover Letter: A personalized document that introduces the applicant and explains their interest in the specific position. A good cover letter highlights key achievements that align closely with the job requirements specified in the vacancy announcement.
  • Performance Evaluations: Past evaluations from supervisors that assess the applicant's job performance. These documents can provide evidence of the required skills and abilities through documented accomplishments and past job performance.
  • Certificates of Training: Records of completed training programs relevant to the position being applied for. These certificates serve to validate the applicant’s claims regarding their education and professional development.
  • Transcripts: Academic records from educational institutions. While not attached to the Postal 991 form, transcripts may be required upon request to verify the applicant’s educational qualifications.
  • References List: A document listing individuals who can vouch for the applicant's qualifications, work ethic, and abilities. This list usually includes names, contact information, and the relationship of the references to the applicant.
  • Job Announcement: A copy of the job vacancy announcement that defines the position's requirements and expectations. This document is crucial for ensuring that every requirement is addressed in the application.
  • Disclosure Forms: Any additional forms required under the Privacy Act or other regulations to disclose how personal information will be used. This ensures that applicants understand the handling of their information.
  • Follow-Up Email: An optional document that can be sent after submitting the application, thanking the hiring manager for their consideration. It may also reiterate interest in the position and provide additional information if necessary.
  • Affidavit of Accuracy: A statement signed by the applicant confirming that all the information provided in the Postal 991 form and accompanying documents is true and accurate, thus protecting the integrity of both the applicant and the Postal Service.

These additional forms and documents collectively contribute to a robust application. They provide evaluators with necessary context to fully understand an applicant's qualifications and suitability for the desired position. Preparing these materials thoughtfully enhances the applicant's chances of making a favorable impression during the evaluation process.

Similar forms

The Postal 991 form, used for applications related to promotion or assignment within the postal service, shares similarities with several other employment-related documents. The following list outlines five such documents:

  • Resume: Like the Postal 991 form, a resume provides a summary of education, work experience, and skills. Both documents aim to present qualifications relevant to a specific job or vacancy. However, the Postal 991 form requires detailed responses to specific job requirements, while a resume is typically more general.
  • Cover Letter: A cover letter accompanies applications and gives an overview of the applicant’s qualifications. Both forms allow applicants to explain how their experience fits the job they are applying for. The Postal 991 form, however, is more structured and must directly address specific requirements listed in a job announcement.
  • Job Application Form: Job applications often ask for personal details, qualifications, and experience, similar to the Postal 991 form. Both require accuracy and detail to ensure the applicant is appropriately evaluated. The key difference is that the Postal 991 form has a strong emphasis on qualifications relative to specific job requirements.
  • Statement of Qualifications: This type of document outlines how an applicant's experiences and skills meet job requirements. Both the Postal 991 form and a Statement of Qualifications require detailed examples of achievements. The Postal 991 form includes structured prompts that guide how applicants communicate their qualifications.
  • Performance Appraisal: A performance appraisal reviews an employee’s work performance and qualifications for their role. Both documents analyze the skills and abilities of the individual in relation to job duties. The Postal 991 form is proactive, used for applying to a new position, while appraisals are typically retrospective.

Dos and Don'ts

Do's when filling out the Postal 991 form:

  • Read the vacancy announcement carefully to understand job requirements.
  • Provide detailed descriptions of your qualifications, using specific examples of your achievements.
  • Follow the situation-task-action-result format for clarity in your achievements.
  • Use a separate page for each requirement as outlined in the form instructions.
  • Include reference numbers for each of your qualifications to allow for verification.

Don'ts when filling out the Postal 991 form:

  • Do not attach transcripts or recommendations; they are not permitted.
  • Avoid vague statements; saying you possess a skill without evidence is insufficient.
  • Do not leave any requirement unaddressed, as this may render your application incomplete.
  • Refrain from submitting false information; this can lead to serious penalties.
  • Do not forget to fill in the "Requirements Page __ of __" at the bottom right corner of each page.

Misconceptions

Following are some common misconceptions about the Postal 991 form, along with clarifications to help applicants better understand the application process.

  1. You can skip requirements if they don't apply to you. Each requirement in the vacancy announcement must be addressed. Omitting any may lead to an incomplete application.
  2. Education alone qualifies you for the position. Your qualifications should include relevant work experience and achievements, not just educational background.
  3. Any job-related reference is acceptable. Only provide references who can confirm your achievements as linked to the qualifications sought in the form.
  4. It’s okay to summarize achievements briefly. Detailed descriptions are necessary. Use the situation, action, and result format to clearly demonstrate your qualifications.
  5. Other types of documentation can be attached. Do not attach transcripts or recommendations, as the application solely relies on the Postal 991 form.
  6. It doesn't matter how you present your information. Clarity is key. Presenting your qualifications in a structured manner is essential for evaluators to understand your achievements.
  7. Previous Postal Service positions guarantee success. Applicants must illustrate their skills and experiences related to the specific requirements of the job for which they are applying.
  8. You should include personal information extensively. Focus on your qualifications without disclosing unnecessary personal details beyond what is requested on the form.
  9. Filling out the form is a one-time task. Multiple copies of certain pages may need to be completed, especially if applying to several requirements.
  10. Only your current supervisor can be a reference. While your current supervisor is useful, previous supervisors and colleagues who can vouch for your skills may also be appropriate.

Key takeaways

When applying for a position using the Postal 991 form, consider the following key takeaways:

  • Understand the Purpose: The Postal 991 form is designed to summarize your education, work experience, and skills relevant to the job you’re applying for.
  • Address All Requirements: Ensure that your application responds directly to every requirement listed in the vacancy announcement. An incomplete application may result in being deemed unqualified.
  • Provide Specific Examples: For each requirement, provide multiple examples from your past achievements that demonstrate your qualifications. Use clear situations, actions, and results to paint a complete picture.
  • Be Detailed: When describing your achievements, give enough context so evaluators can understand your contributions. Mention the significance of your actions and what you learned.
  • Use Reference Numbers: Link each achievement to its corresponding education or work experience reference number. This helps evaluators verify your qualifications easily.
  • Privacy and Accuracy: Your information will be used solely for evaluating your application. Ensure all details are accurate; false statements can lead to severe penalties.

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