The Second Edition of Essentials of Public Service prepares readers for careers in today’s public service, whether in government or nonprofits. Each chapter teaches the public service context, essential public service skills, and what it takes to do the job, whether managing or providing direct service.

In addition to standard chapters on leading, organizing, budgeting, and staffing, this book offers chapters on contracting, financial management in government as well as nonprofits, legal issues, digital democracy, and public integrity, all within a constitutional frame of reference. In our interconnected system of government, nonprofits, and public/private partnerships, readers will learn how all the parts fit together.

Cases, discussion questions, and exercises bring the subject matter to life. A unique Skillbox at the end of each chapter provides step-by-step instructions on how to perform tasks expected of public administrators, from writing a memo to hiring the right person to presenting data using spreadsheets.