Private sector employees rated their organizations nine points higher in terms of recognition for good work, and 14 points higher than federal employees in terms of having opportunities to get better jobs within the organization (something just three out of 10 federal employees are satisfied with).
Among the report’s recommendations for agencies and managers are to support career development – including in-house training provided by other employees.
Agencies should give employees the opportunity to participate in more cross-functional projects, rotations or developmental assignments between units, and make alternative benefits available such as telework, alternate work schedules and time-off awards, according to the report.
It said managers shouldn’t overlook praising employees, or thanking them – as simple recognition can go a long way. This is something the Merit Systems Protection Board recently wrote about, suggesting this is the most important form of recognition for employees, above even performance awards.
