How does the private sector look these days?

Be honest now.

A lot of comments posted by readers of this blog have expressed a lot of frustration with the seemingly endless congressional assault on federal pay and benefits.

Most long-time feds, at least those nearing the end of their careers, are hanging on, although more than a few have said they would take a buyout if one were offered.

On the other hand, a good number of younger feds—those with a lot more years between them and their retirement—have expressed a growing anger at Congress’ tinkering with the pay, benefits and retirement they had assumed they would have throughout their federal careers. And with more workforce reductions announced every month, long-term job security appears to under threat as well.

As the prospect of a stable federal career fades, a lot of younger feds have begun to grind their teeth over the pay gap with the private sector.

So we are wondering, younger feds: Have you begun to look outside the federal fold? Or are you willing to play wait-and-see?

Inquiring bloggers want to know.