Washington - Every year since 1985, seven days in May have been
designated as Public Service Recognition Week, a time to honour federal, state
and local government employees and acknowledge the many benefits they provide
to the American public.
While leaders in the private sector are lauded as running
"best places to work" for their efforts to recruit, develop and
recognize employees, public servants are often seldom given the recognition
they deserve for their efforts.
Consider this data point to appreciate the difference: Only
about 46 percent of federal employees believe they are recognized appropriately
for a job well done. That's about 22 points lower than what is found in the
private sector.
That difference is a shame considering that federal
employees are working every day to address the country's most pressing needs:
keeping our country safe, maintaining economic stability, ensuring basic civil
rights, providing educational opportunity, caring for veterans and protecting
public health and the environment.
While praise from the public would be welcome, it is
critically important that political and career federal leaders take the time
during the week of May 7 to let their employees know they are valued and that
the work they do is important.
Over the years, my organization, the Partnership for Public
Service, has collected ideas about efforts federal leaders can take and
organized them into a Public Service Recognition Week Toolkit that includes a
guide for federal agencies.
Regardless of your leadership role, take time during this
week to recognize the good work of your team, and begin to build a culture of
recognition that continues throughout the year.
There are numerous ways to highlight the work of your staff.
At a minimum, federal agency leaders should send an email to their employees
expressing gratitude for their hard work and results. Don't worry. If you are
not sure exactly what to say, the toolkit has some sample messages to get you
started.
Leaders with social media savvy can supplement the emails by
blogging or tweeting #PSRW to reinforce the importance of public service to the
American public.
Some leaders might want to take a step further by ensuring
that their employee newsletters publicize activities and events taking place
during the week, including the Public Service Charity 5K Run/Walk to benefit
the Federal Employee Education and Assistance Fund.
Committed agencies have been intentional about coordinating
employee awards programs to occur during the week. It's a great time to
highlight the career achievements of long-time public employees as well as the
work of other individuals and teams making significant contributions.
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You also can set aside time for personal thank you messages
to high-performing employees - handwritten notes, emails, phone calls or a
personal pat on the back will do the job. You also might consider organizing an
employee appreciation rally.
In past years, some federal leaders have greeted their
employees as they have entered the headquarters, while others have organized
informal social events.
These gestures, big and small, will matter. Acknowledging
and rewarding excellent work and providing praise can go a long way to boosting
morale and improving organizational performance.