As a long time Federal Manager, I am constantly amazed by the lack of recognition that our front line managers receive. Front line managers are charged with carrying out the policies and meeting the goals of their Executives and with directing, developing and evaluating their subordinates. But far too little effort is spent on providing appropriate recognition for the performance of front line managers and little consideration is given to their developmental needs.
I have spent many years working on improving agency operations. It never ceases to amaze me that the needs of the front line manager are the first to be discarded when crunch time comes.How can we hope to improve our operations if we do not provide managers the tools to be successful and when we do recognize them for their achievements?
The current debate on pay fails to address the real role managers play in our agency’s success. The debate will fail if we continue to ignore the real need for pay recognition and developmental opportunities.
I agree. We need to spend more time highlighting and rewarding federal managers who are really making change and gov work.