How are your “Leading Change” skills?

One of the core qualifications for a government executive is “Leading Change”, which is defined as the ability to bring about strategic change (both within and outside the organization) to meet organizational goals.  Six years ago, I completed my second year as a front-line supervisor in our Human Resources organization.  I previously served a year as supervisor for HR Reps—an area where I was grown and raised for ten years.  But my second year was different.  There, I served as a supervisor for HR Development—leading and guiding an organization of training and organization development specialists.

Upon completion of that year, I received some good feedback from the team.

Read More

Government Shutdown Continued: Are We Negotiating Yet?

10038532014_fdcb3ca6a1

photo credit: verbeeldingskr8 Sorry, we’re closed via photopin (license)

After two weeks of government shutdown, our organization has scrambled to define the positions and people needed to support the lives of our astronauts aboard the International Space Station.  While many employees want to return to work (and know they’ll ultimately be paid, if the 407-0 House vote on retroactive pay is any indication), they are unable to do so.

Instead, we’re waiting on our Congressional representatives to take action and let us get back to work.  For someone who’s always believed in an honest day’s work for a day of pay, this situation is particularly frustrating.  It’s also tough knowing that many of my friends who work on government contracts may not be compensated the same way that I am…

Read more