The Office of Personnel Management’s guidelines for
Executive Core Qualifications are available to help senior
executive service candidates prepare for advancement.
ECQ qualifications define the qualities needed to facilitate
a corporate culture in the federal government, one that’s
oriented toward results, customer service and team building
both within and outside the organization, says OPM.
The ECQ’s originally were published in 1997 but have since
been updated to reflect research into successful executives
in both the public and private sectors. The first of five,
“Leading Change,” addresses the development and
implementation of an organizational vision that integrates
national and program goals and emphasizes the ability to
balance change and continuity. “Leading People” addresses
the ability to design and implement ways to get the most
out of people in the context of the organization’s vision.
“Results Driven” stresses accountability and improvement,
including the ability to make timely and effective
decisions. “Business Acumen” involves the ability to
acquire all kinds of resources, human, material or
intangible. “Building Coalitions/Communication” encompasses
effective communications and collaboration.
