A large number of those who move to the upper reaches of the government in Washington may have only a hazy idea of how to make their time there a success. Many are used to a private-sector world far different from life in the federal establishment. Major features of the Washington environmentópolicy making, budget, ethics, the Congress, the pressóbear little resemblance to what they're used to. In concise and direct fashion, this book provides many of the most important answers they need, not just to avoid mistakes at the beginning but to perform effectively throughout their service in government. Here is first-hand information straight out of lengthy conversations with dozens of men and women who have already been there, distilled for a quick reading by people whose time is valuable. The book groups their wisdom in such categories as politics and process, the first 90 days, the career service, ethics, and the budget. Co-published with the Center for Excellence in Government.